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Jan
24
2022
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Posted 2 years 337 days ago ago by Admin
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The year 2021 was a tough year but we made it. Covid diagnosis and recovery, family health issues, a crazy economy, and low staff due to a myriad of reasons are just a few of the challenges we faced. It appears adversity was the only constant during this past year. It was that way for most of us but as a people, a family, a team we just leaned forward and kept marching.
Napoleon Hill says, “Every adversity, every failure, every heartbreak, carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” In many cases I witnessed that seed manifest into something beautiful. I watched the sick be revived, I have seen the lonely comforted and the fearful gain courage and strength.
In strange and uncertain times, I have witnessed our helicopter maintenance business thrive. Short staff has made it difficult, but everyone pulled together and worked as a team. Helicopter mechanics were almost impossible to find so I hired two new mechanics and decided to train them from scratch. One has just received his A&P and the other is still in school. In just over a month on the job, I can say we hit a homerun and I fully believe these two will make a profound impact in the future of helicopter maintenance.
I am looking forward to the year 2022. I am looking forward to seeing the seed of equal or greater benefit come to pass. I am looking forward to growing new mechanics and helping to set up helicopter maintenance for the next generation.
Persistence is the key that will open the door of opportunity and will give us the courage to never quit. Aircraft mechanics are a tough breed. Most will have that steely eyed look and raw determination to take ownership not only of his machine but also of the souls on board.
Going forward, put on your helmets and buckle your chin straps because this next year is going to be a wild ride. As my friend and long-time A&P, Buddy Evans says, “You are the Mack Daddy.” It is your time Mack Daddy to make a difference.
About the author: Mark dedicated the majority of his career serving the helicopter EMS community from Base Mechanic to Director of Maintenance. As Vice President & General Manager of Precision Aircraft Services, Mark now serves helicopter operators from many sectors to include Air Ambulance, Law Enforcement, Private Owners, etc. When not at work, Mark can be found spending time with his family or sitting in a tree stand.