John Riccio works as a planning supervisor for Wheels Up, where his colleagues praise his skill, knowledge and leadership capabilities.
Marcelina Plesiak of Wheels Up says, “With over a decade of progressive experience at Wheels Up Aviation, a longstanding commitment to the Civil Air Patrol, advanced knowledge of computer systems and a broad range of technical and personal accomplishments, John stands out as a model professional, respected for both his expertise and his willingness to support and guide those around him.”
Plesiak adds, “His roles within CAP, including Director of Logistics, Search and Rescue Ground Team Leader, and recognition for his involvement in disaster relief operations demonstrate his dedication to giving back to the community. This service further reinforces his commitment to aviation, particularly in safety and emergency response.”
On what experience led him to his current career path, Riccio shares, “When I was growing up my dad would take me to the Drake’s snack store by the airport, and we would watch the planes take off and land.”
He also credits his active engagement throughout his school and training with helping him secure his first aviation job, stating, “Asking a lot of questions in A&P school—one of my teachers recommended this job to me a few weeks after classes ended.”
When asked what he enjoys most about his work in the industry, Riccio names the opportunity to problem-solve and find solutions to puzzles, as well as the people he interacts with. He says, “I have met some of the nicest and some of the smartest people in aviation.”
Riccio identifies his proudest accomplishment, sharing, “The Maintenance Planning team we have built at Wheels UP, progressing from data entry to building new department, eventually leading that department then coordinating the merging of the Maintenance Planning departments from three different companies in different states with different fleet types, all on to one operator’s certificate.”
Riccio notes that in the future, he hopes to see more reliable access to parts in the maintenance industry and to leave the impact of stable, dependable leadership at his workplace.
To young professionals hoping to join the aircraft maintenance industry, Riccio advises, “Work hard, pay attention to the checklists, never stop learning.”
