Reconnecting

Last week I mentioned that I was on my way to MRO Americas 2010 - an event that attracted maintenance and repair organizations from around the world. I felt it was a great show – the first MRO Americas event that I attended. The event included numerous sessions regarding current events and issues in the heavy aircraft maintenance industry. Representatives from small services organizations, to parts, equipment, and tooling companies, to both small and large scale airframe, engine, and component repair and overhaul facilities were all there. Several airlines which perform third party maintenance were also represented. I have not yet seen any specific attendance numbers for the event – one report I read stated that it seemed lighter than in past years. I was told there were European attendees that were not able to make it due to the air travel disruptions caused by the recent volcano in Iceland. Because of these travel disruptions, attendance figures alone may not be a good gauge of the event or of the current health of the aviation maintenance industry.  Discussions that I had with exhibitors and attendees on how they felt their business was doing given today’s current economic situation resulted in mixed responses. Most people expressed a cautious view of the current condition of this segment with comments like the business is flat, steady, and we’re all working very hard. But there were some comments like business is doing good and in some cases even getting better. Are these signs of an improvement in the industry? You will have to make of it what you want.  Congratulation goes to Delta TechOps for receiving the 2010 MRO of the Year Award - Outstanding Maintenance Group. The press release detailing this award was posted last week on AMT Online news. For me one of the more memorable parts of the event was the chance to reconnect with many former colleagues and associates. I met former colleagues from NWA who are now with Delta, old colleagues (like me) who are working for new employers, and a few who were there networking with other aviation maintenance professionals. I also had the chance to reconnect with many people from various MROs around the country and the world. Another aviation event I always enjoy going to is the Minnesota Aviation Maintenance Technician’s Conference. I’ve been attending this annual event for many years and similar to MRO Americas, I always look forward to seeing old aviation friends and colleagues. Last month I attended the 2010 conference but this year my role was a little different as I exhibited for AMT Magazine. This year many of these old friends and colleagues were curious – perhaps even surprised with my new role with AMT. A highlight for me was the time spent talking to aviation maintenance students from the area, in particular a large group from Northland Community and Technical College which is located in Thief River Falls Minnesota. One of these eager students even asked for a critique of his resume. So many people in this industry over the last few years have moved-on, changed jobs, locations, or careers. I always enjoy reconnecting with old aviation colleagues - how about you? Do you stay connected with the industry and your old colleagues? Regards, Ron