Kenosha, Wis., February 7, 2013 – More than 30 aviation maintenance teams from around the world will be vying for the inaugural William O'Brien Trophy for Aviation Tech Excellence, presented by Snap-on, at the AviationPros Live Conference, March 13-14, in Las Vegas.

Sponsoring the William O'Brien Trophy for Aviation Tech Excellence is part of Snap-on's expanded three-year commitment to AviationPros Live. That commitment also positions Snap-on as the new Exclusive Sponsor of the AMTSociety Maintenance Skills Competition. The event gives teams of licensed AMTs, AMEs, international military personnel and qualified aviation maintenance students the chance to test their aviation maintenance skills against those of their peers. The Maintenance Skills Competition runs from 10 a.m. March 13 through 5 p.m. March 14, with the award presentations starting at 9 a.m. March 15.

The William O'Brien Trophy for Aviation Tech Excellence, presented by Snap-on, will be bestowed to the team with the overall winning score from the Maintenance Skills Competition, and be on display in the winning team's facility for a year. In addition to the trophy, Snap-on is awarding more than $75,000 in tools and equipment to other top finishers in the competition.

Snap-on's expanded involvement with AviationPros Live and the Maintenance Skills Competition demonstrates its commitment and partnership with aviation technicians to further their profession.

“The AMT Society is pleased and honored to count on the continued support of Snap-on for the next three years,” said Tom Hendershot, executive director, AMTSociety. “Snap-on has been a stalwart in promoting excellence in the aviation maintenance profession and this partnership renews and reinforces that commitment to the future of the AMT Society and its members.”

“We are very pleased to expand our relationship with AMTSociety and strengthen our involvement in the Maintenance Skills Competition,” said Andy Ginger, president, Snap-on Industrial. “When it comes to aviation, Snap-on is much more than simply a tool and equipment supplier. We pride ourselves in working closely with the industry to develop solutions and become a true partner with aviation techs. That's the added value Snap-on brings to this critical industry.”

Attendees to AviationPros Live and the Maintenance Skills Competition will also be able to tour Snap-on's Advanced Technology Lab (ATL) vehicle. The ATL is a customized interactive lab on wheels that brings the Snap-on experience and aviation capabilities, such as the latest in tool innovation, hand and power tools, tool control and asset management, to its customers for hands-on demonstrations.

For more information about Snap-on, call 877.740.1900, or visit http://www.snapon.com; for information on the AMTSociety Maintenance Skills Competition, visit www.amtsociety.org.

About Snap-on Industrial

Snap-on Industrial is a division of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, diagnostics, equipment, software and service solutions for professional users. Products and services include hand and power tools, tool storage, diagnostics software, information and management systems, shop equipment and other solutions for vehicle dealerships and repair centers, as well as customers in industry, government, agriculture, aviation and natural resources. Products and services are sold through the company's franchisee, company-direct, distribution and Web-based channels. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2.9 billion, S&P 500 Company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

2013 AMTSociety Maintenance Skills Competition

AMTSociety's 6th Annual Maintenance Skills Competition (MSC) will be held in Las Vegas, NV, March 13 – 15, 2013.

Professional AMTs and AMEs, as well as AMT students, from around the world will be speaking out for our proud craft and profession at AMTSociety's 6th Annual Maintenance Skills Competition (MSC) in Las Vegas, NV. They will help bring recognition for the knowledge, skill, and integrity that is needed to build, repair, and maintain aircraft. Regardless of the size of an aircraft or the mission one thing remains constant and that is the AMT/AME that has custody of that aircraft's safety and airworthiness. These highly skilled individuals will be competing against each other but together they will be representatives of our craft and profession.

There are 30 scheduled teams from around the world that will be going head to head in 18 different events that highlight just some of the many skills needed in today's aircraft maintenance world. In showing the public what AMT/AMEs do the MSC also shows where AMT/AMEs came from with an event related to Charles E. Taylor. Events will test each participant's ability to troubleshoot electrical and avionic problems as well as pitot static, hydraulic, engine, NDI, and safety wiring events. There are events to challenge an AMT/AME's skill at researching ADs, window sealing, composite repair, weight and balance, and even an external power receptacle and G IV wheel and brake event.

The events presented are made possible by companies such as PPG Aerospace, Boeing, Alaska Airlines, CAE, ATP, United States Navy, FPTI, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, Redstone College, Alberth Aviation, U.S. Coast Guard, Nida Corp., DFW Instruments, FedEx, AirData, and the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association (AMTA).

There is the William F. “Bill” O'Brien Award for Excellence in Aircraft Maintenance that is presented to the one team out of all the teams competing with the lowest overall score. And 2013 will be the second year AMTSociety presents the Professional AMT Award that is awarded to the one AMT/AME/student that is viewed as having the most professional attitude/appearance, team spirit, and attitude. This award is decided by the judges who are scoring the many events.

And what competition would be complete without prizes? The 2013 MSC continues with the tradition of tool companies providing quality tools and the biggest sponsor is Snap-On Tools. There are also tools provided by Kennedy Tool Boxes, SK Hand Tools, Stahlwille, Proto/Stanley, ProBuilt Professional Lighting, Leatherman, DeWALT, Silvertronic, Led Lenser, David Clark, Noisebuster, Protective Industrial Products, Top Flight Watches, Bennette Design Group, and Sure-Step.

In addition to the prizes stated above, AMTSociety presents the first, second, and third place team members for each category with an engraved plaque to commemorate the occasion, and there are pictures along with stories of the MSC written for the AMT magazine, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

With teams from Australia, China, Mexico, Canada, and the United States, the goal of the MSC grows in that AMTSociety is able to show the public that those within our craft belong to a brotherhood. That AMT/AMEs belong to a society of professionals with the heavy responsibility of ensuring aircraft whether they are commercial aviation, general aviation, and military or from the manufacturing floor are maintained to the highest standards possible. On behalf of AMTSociety's board of directors I invite you to come and help speak out for our craft by either competing or by just coming out to cheer on those who are competing.

Gravity Can Be Grave

By Thomas E. Hendershot

Work stands and ladders are part of our work environment. We cannot do our jobs without them but we frequently forget how dangerous they can be. Gravity is not your friend when elevated by this equipment.

Falls from this equipment are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries. Last year alone they attributed to approximately 163,000 emergency room visits due to falling from such equipment. We often take them for granted and get complacent when using them.

We can greatly reduce if not totally eliminate such accidents and incidents by thinking safety before use and safety during use. Read and follow all instructions, warnings, and cautions.

Report and remove damaged equipment from service and tag it until it is repaired or fixed. Choose the proper ladder or work stand for the intended task. Inspect for slippery surfaces and ensure it is not shaky or on an uneven surface. Do not overextend your reach. Use barricades/signs if placed where it can be displaced by other work activities. Engage all locks. Do not exceed the maximum load rating. Use safety harness/fall protection.

A few attentive moments before use may save you months of recovery, or death, due to unsafe use.

– Stay safe, Thomas Hendershot

Who Do You Trust?

By Thomas E. Hendershot

According to Webster's Dictionary trust is the “firm” belief or confidence in the honesty, justice, reliability, etc., of another person or thing. When it comes to maintenance and inspections, a question you should always ask yourself is. “Do I trust or have confidence that the previous maintenance or inspection was properly completed?”

Sadly, too many problems and accidents prove otherwise. When removing and replacing a component, don't “trust” that it was properly installed previously. This is especially true if a component requires bench tests, clearance or tolerance checks prior to installation.

Read, understand, and follow the manufacturer's instructions and Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) rather than installing as it was previously installed. We are human and as hard as we try, we all make mistakes.

When it comes to inspections, carefully and thoroughly inspect every item required by the manufacturer's inspection checklist rather than being pressured to take shortcuts or cut corners to save time and or money. Do you have the firm belief and/or confidence that all the covers and panels were opened and/or removed and areas behind insulation were properly inspected during previous inspections? The truth is, you don't know for sure!

Here is a hypothetical example: Someone replaced numerous missing upholstery screws in an interior side panel. It should be documented, but it might not be. Nevertheless, were the screws too long, and maybe one or even several are now chaffing against a fluid line, hose, or electrical wire behind that panel? You don't know unless you inspect. The firm belief or confidence in reliability comes only after you have performed maintenance and inspection per the manufacturer's instructions and data. Back in the ‘80s, Ronald Reagan had a phrase he used when dealing with the old Soviet Union, “Trust, but verify.” Good advice for all of us.

– Stay safe, Thomas Hendershot

News Items

AMTSociety scholarship program

A reminder to all: The date for submission for all scholarship forms and accompanying material is Dec. 15, 2012. Select the scholarship you wish to apply for on the web site, www.AMTSociety.org, complete the form, attach the required information and mail it so that it is postmarked by Dec. 15, 2012 to: Joseph C. Hawkins, Chairman, AMTSociety Scholarship Program, 5419 Colonial Circle, Murfreesboro, TN 37129-7038

Lifetime Achievement Award

For those of you who are interested in nominating someone for this award, the nomination form can be obtained from the web site. After you have completed the form, mail it so that it is postmarked by Dec. 15, 2012, to: Thomas E. Hendershot, Executive Director, AMTSociety International Headquarters, 13183 Regulus Dr., Lone Tree, CO 80124-2931

Toolbox raffle and scholarship program

Once again, Snap-on Industrial has supported AMTSociety with a KRA 4107D toolbox valued at $2,500 and your choice of Snap-on tools valued at $2,500. The tickets are one ticket for $5 or three tickets for $10. The color of the toolbox is your individual choice, and the toolbox and tools will be shipped to the address you specify. Should you win and decide to donate this toolbox and tools to an A&P school, like the last two winners have so graciously elected to do, Snap-on will add an additional $1,000 worth of tools for the school. Tickets can be obtained from any AMTSociety director, or you can send me a check for the number of tickets you wish to purchase and I will send the tickets to you (address above). The drawing will be held on Friday, March 15, 2013, during the Maintenance Skills Competition Awards program in Las Vegas. The winner need not be present to win.

Notice: Las Vegas AMTSociety IA Renewal

For all of you who are planning on attending AMTSociety's IA Renewal Consortium Program in Las Vegas, NV, at AviationPros LIVE in March 2013: The program will be a one-day meeting on March 13. Registration is from 7:00 to 8:00 with the program scheduled from 0800 to 1700. AMTSociety will host the morning and afternoon breaks as well as lunch. The cost will be $70, which includes a one-year membership, breaks, lunch, the eight-hour course plus the certificate of completion for the FAA. Please don't forget to pre-register at www.AMTSociety.org. The date again: Wednesday, March 13, 2013. If you have any questions, please contact Thomas Hendershot, at (303) 799-6870 or (800) 547-7377 Ext. 1565.

Moving away from paper

A reminder for those of you that are also certificated pilots, effective Oct. 1, 2012, pilots must use FAA MedXPress to complete an electronic application for an Airman Medical Certificate or Airman Medical and Student Pilot Certificate, FAA Form 8500-8. As many of you know, the federal government is taking steps across the board to become more efficient and to reduce costs, and our move to electronic records is consistent with those initiatives. If you have any technical issues, you may reach MedXPress support at (877) 287-6731 or https://medexpress.faa.gov.

Wall of Honor

$10,000 Charles Taylor Goal Reached for Wall of Honor

By Ken MacTiernan

Due to the generosity of individuals and organizations and companies worldwide $10,000 was raised in eight weeks to have Taylor's name engraved with the largest size lettering.

The people who help populate our “society” of aircraft maintenance professionals have recently come together to have Charles E. Taylor's name written on a very prestigious “history book” located at the same Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center where his likeness is on display.

The Hazy Center has an airfoil shaped memorial that recognizes those with a passion for flight called the Wall of Honor. Lettering ranges in sizes from 3/16 to 1 inch and because of the generosity of individuals and organizations and companies worldwide $10,000.00 was raised in eight weeks to have Charlie's name engraved with the largest size lettering.

Since mankind conquered the challenge of powered, controlled flight there have been many technological advancements in both airframe and power plant. Throughout these small steps and large leaps in better technology to make flying faster and safer the Aircraft Maintenance Technician has remained silently vigilant. Perhaps the reason for this “silence” is due to the fact that Charles E. Taylor, considered the “Father of Aircraft Maintenance,” was himself “silent.”

Having created the first aircraft engines for the Wright Flyer, Charlie never looked for notoriety or fame. There were no reality shows or paparazzi back in 1903, there was just hard work, determination, and professionalism. Charles E. Taylor might have been able to turn his contributions to aviation into a personal fortune, however, like today's proud, skilled aircraft maintenance technicians and aircraft maintenance engineers Charlie was given a task and set out to accomplish it to the best of his abilities.

History is written with facts by those who wish to make these facts available for people so they can remember the past and those who contributed to our future. The Wright brothers always gave Charlie his well earned recognition. However, since the first aircraft engine propelled mankind airborne it would take almost 100 years before Howard R. DuFour, with Peter J. Unitt, wrote the biography on Taylor titled “Charles E. Taylor 1868 - 1956 The Wright Brother's Mechanician.”

It would take 99 years before Richard “Dilly” Dillbeck would have the State of California introduce and pass the first AMT Day Resolution that recognizes May 24 as AMT Day in honor of Charlie's birthday. In 2006 the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association would donate a bronze bust of Charlie, created by Artist Virginia Hess, to the Smithsonian's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. This bust donation would be followed by further bronze bust donations and AMT Day Resolutions being passed.

These acts of recognition were made possible by many people who have the same passion for making sure that Charles E. Taylor is remembered in the pages of aviation history.

It is rewarding to know that the craft and profession which Charlie started remembers its past by making sure Charles E. Taylor is not forgotten.

The following donors made sure that the Wall of Honor will include a man who deserves to be written in aviation history: Ken Abeldt; Kyle Acuna; Aeronautical Repair Station Association; Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association; Aircraft Technical Publishers; American Airlines M&E; AMT Magazine; AMTSociety; Anonymous Donor; Baker's School of Aeronautics; Mr. & Mrs. Brian Banks; Gregory Bowles; Mike & Karen Brennan; Gary Brossett; Ms. Jane Brown; Mr. & Mrs. Rick Browning; Mrs. Gloria Cosby; Crimson Technical College; Andy Curtis; Russ Dittmer; Kerry Dodge; D.O.M. Magazine; Mr. & Mrs. Brett Doran; Frank Dudek III; Ms. Jessica Espinoza; Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Fotoulis; Ms. Rhonda Fuston; Ms. Carol Giles; Honorable John Goglia; Ms. Sandra Gordon; Peter Guy, Mark Loetscher, and Michael Morelock; Dale Hasenkamp; Joe Hawkins; Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Hayes; Thomas Hendershot; Mrs. Virginia Hess; Ms. Lauren Hurlburt, Michael Molzhan, Jermay Spenser, and Eugene Wells; Jack Jones; Kurt Kadel; Joseph Kilfeather; Aaron Klippel; Frank Krznaric; Andy Littel; Roger Martin; Byron Masters; Patrick McDevitt; Mr. & Mrs. Rich McNeely; Jim Milardo; Pete Miller; Ms. Lauren Morris; David Ostang; Dennis Pelletier; Lane Perry II; Russell Peterson; Marlin Priest; Mr. & Mrs. Phil Randall; Jimmy Ray and Questle Davis; John Ruiz; Ms. Tigist Ryals; George Sayner/Cindy Tagliapietra; Snap-on Tools; Todd Stranczek; Murray Thole; Arthur Tobey; TWU Local 561; TWU Local 562; and Chris Violanti.

Finish all the steps before calling the task complete

Does this sound basic? Yes, it is ... But, there continue to be maintenance-induced aircraft accidents where the mechanic did not follow the order of the steps, did not finish a step, or did not complete all the steps of the task as instructed.

Instructions for continued airworthiness contain sequential steps for completing a task. It goes without saying (but we'll say it anyway!) that the sequence of steps developed by the manufacturer is very important! The job will be performed correctly and safely when each individual step is started and completed; one step at a time, in sequential order.

It is not a bingo game out there, it really is a matter of safety, and safety cannot be compromised.

Charles E. Taylor

As most of you are aware by now, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum has undertaken a major project to honor the man who made it possible for the Wright Glider to become the Wright Flyer. In doing so, it is expanding the Wall of Honor that is established in the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.

Kenneth J. MacTiernan, director of AMTA, as well as board member for AMTSociety, has spent many hours requesting contributions from all of the aviation industry to assure that the name of Charles E. Taylor will be written in 1-inch lettering on this wall. Attached is the list of donors.

As of press time, the donations went over the $10,000 needed to have 1-inch letters which are the largest size. This will not only place his name on the Wall of Honor at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in recognition of Charles E. Taylor's achievements, it will also bring attention to the thousands of skilled craftsmen that have followed in his footsteps.

Wall of Honor donors

Thank you to everyone who has made a donation or helped spread the word about the Wall of Honor effort. Here is the list of donors:

Ken Abeldt , Kyle Acuna , Aeronautical Repair Station Association, Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association , Aircraft Technical Publishers , American Airlines M&E , AMT Magazine , AMTSociety , Anonymous Donor , Baker's School of Aeronautics , Mr. & Mrs. Brian Banks, Gregory Bowles , Mike & Karen Brennan, Ms. Jane Brown , Mr. & Mrs. Rick Browning , Mrs. Gloria Cosby, Crimson Technical College, Andy Curtis, Russ Dittmer, Kerry Dodge, D.O.M. Magazine, Mr. & Mrs. Brett Doran , Frank Dudek III , Ms. Jessica Espinoza , Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Fotoulis, Ms. Rhonda Fuston , Ms. Carol Giles , Honorable John Goglia, Ms. Sandra Gordon, Dale Hasenkamp, Joe Hawkins , Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Hayes , Tom Hendershot , Mrs. Virginia Hess , Ms. Lauren Hurlburt, Michael Molzhan, Jermay Spenser, and Eugene Wells , Kurt Kadel , Joseph Kilfeather , Aaron Klippel , Frank Krznaric , Andy Little, Roger Martin, Byron Masters , Patrick McDevitt, Mr. & Mrs. Rich McNeely , Pete Miller , Ms. Lauren Morris , David Ostang , Dennis Pelletier , Lane Perry II , Russell Peterson , Marlin Priest , Mr. & Mrs. Phil Randall , Ms. Tigist Ryals , George Sayner/Cindy Tagliapietra , Snap-on Tools , Todd Stranczek , TWU Local 562, and Chris Violanti.

Tom Hendershot

Tom Hendershot's name is also going to be engraved on the Wall of Honor at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center for his contributions to the preservation of the aviation and space exploration history and as a testament to his commitment to and passion for flight.

AMTSociety Mx Logs Update

With maintenance vehicles and aircraft towing, you have a lot of responsibility and a job to do and you also want to get it done right – right? This, in many cases, requires you to drive maintenance vehicles or move aircraft by taxi or towing in the airfield maintenance areas. Be proactive and learn the tower frequencies, especially the ground control frequency (jot them down), recognize and be certain that you understand the airfield markings and signs, and by all means, before you move, get authorization/clearance – and VERIFY!

Following this procedure each and every time will reduce your risk of: causing an unauthorized or unapproved movement within the movement area or an occurrence in the movement associated with the operation of an aircraft that affects or could affect the safety of flight resulting in a reported surface deviation incident – or causing any occurrence at an airport involving an aircraft involving an aircraft, vehicle, person, or object on the ground that creates a collision hazard or results in the loss of separation with an aircraft taking off, intending to take off, landing, or intending to land resulting in a reported runway incursion.

New mission and vision statements

Mission Statement: To honor the legacy of the aviation community while advancing opportunities for aircraft maintenance technicians to further their profession and ensure the future of aviation.

Vision Statement: To actively promote and protect the professional aircraft maintenance technician's craft and profession, advance the future of our profession, and to provide resources and benefits to its members.

Additions to the board of directors

Thursday, May 17, 2012, three more individuals joined your AMTSociety Board: Gloria J. Cosby, EVP of the Diversified Group, Cygnus Business Media; Ronald W. Donner, Editor of AMT magazine; and Michael R. Sasso, National Sales Account Manager, AMT.

Gloria Cosby started as publisher at Cygnus Business Media in 1989. In 2007, she was promoted from Group Publisher to Brand Director. In 2011, she was promoted to one of just four Executive Vice President positions overseeing the Diversified Group. As EVP, she is responsible for managing strategy and implementation of print, digital and tradeshow brands in several top U.S. industries including transportation and aviation. She is a recognized expert on digital assets and integrating business-to-business platforms for advertisers and was previously named to MIN's list of “11 Women to Watch.”

Ronald (Ron) Donner is an aviation professional having spent his entire life involved in aviation. He holds FAA certificates as an A&P/IA, commercial pilot, single and multi engine land, instrument airplane, glider, and is an airplane owner.

Ron began his aviation career working line service while attending aviation school. From 1975 until 1983 he held positions in general aviation as line service, technician, inspector, and charter pilot. He then began a long career with Northwest Airlines holding positions as a technician, supervisor, manager, quality assurance auditor and FAA liaison. His activity in the QA/FAA liaison group gained him significant experience in regulatory compliance, safety, airport operations, and repair station/MRO activity worldwide. In January 2010 he left NWA and now uses his aviation experience as the Editor of Aircraft Maintenance Technology (AMT) magazine.

Ron has been a volunteer member of the board of directors for Minnesota based Stanton Sport Aviation Inc. from 2000 to present, president from 2004 to 2009, and is currently vice president. He serves on the advisory committee for the annual Minnesota Aviation Maintenance Conference, is an FAA Safety Team Representative, and a member in good standing of many aviation organizations.

As a second generation A&P technician Mike Sasso started his aviation career in high school graduating from Aviation High School in New York with his Airframe and FCC License, graduating with honors and receiving a scholarship to attend Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, OK. He also received an AAS degree from Spartan as well as worked to complete a BS degree through Tulsa University.

He started in the industry as an avionics technician for United Airlines while completing his Powerplant certification at Solano Community College. He worked his way up at United from technician to overhaul maintenance supervisor managing the 727/737 heavy check lines, the moving out to post check test flight management and then onto terminal operations and line operations including a stint as a station maintenance controller. Mike left United to move back to the Midwest and started at American Airlines as a sheet metal/structures mechanic, quickly moving up to run the 727 heavy check line once again and then moved to DFW where he managed the MD11 B check line operations.

After leaving American, he worked at Kitty Hawk as a MX controller and a second term as a base manager, as well as line maintenance manager for FedEx; station MX manager for Air Wisconsin; and a maintenance controller, then MRO supervisor for Comair.

More recently, he was the manager of maintenance control for Mesaba Airlines, as well as the director of the SOC and then director of maintenance until the time it was purchased by NWA. Upon moving out of the management realm, he was instrumental in the writing of the maintenance electronic logbook for the EFB for Teledyne Controls, and also spent some time with Jeppesen as a sales and service rep managing one of its largest accounts in NWA until it was merged with Delta.

He became active in his community starting and managing a local chamber of commerce which focused on community and b2b networking and sales and marketing training for small to medium businesses. He still works with the Chamber at a local level in both Rockford, IL, and Minneapolis, MN.

Currently he has combined his aviation and sales knowledge at AMT magazine and Cygnus Aviation where he is National Sales Account Manager. And he has started working with Rock Valley College, preparing to lead a summer program as an adjunct instructor in its A&P program.

Safety Tip

We all have heard the saying, “Cool it.” It is slang for relax, calm down, take it easy. And, in this sense, it is safe to say we all need to do this from time to time – to avoid making mistakes – especially when feeling the pressure and stress from our work environment. But to you folks who maintain and operate aircraft engines, it takes on a whole different meaning. Many engines may require you to “cool it” down before shutting it down. Improper cool down could lead to sudden damage or even latent damage resulting in future failure. Whether you operate engines frequently and have tremendous knowledge about them or you only operate engines infrequently, always use the engine run checklist. Whether you operate turbine and/or piston-powered engines, and especially if you operate a variety of make and model engines, the bottom line is to understand and comply with the manufacturer's current operating procedures. And always heed the “Notes, Cautions, and Warnings” for the engine you are working on.

As a result, when you “cool it” properly, you will be able to relax, calm down, and take it easy!

– Stay safe, Tom Hendershot

AMT Day

AMT Day, or Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, was created to recognize Charles E. Taylor who was the Wright brothers' mechanic and aviation's original “Unsung Hero,” or otherwise referred to as the “Father of Aircraft Maintenance.” Having built the first aircraft engines, by hand no less, which enabled mankind to conquer controlled powered flight is a remarkable accomplishment. Recognizing Charlie's rightful place in aviation's history, which history almost forgot, is just and warranted. But how did AMT Day start? Why was it created? What does it mean?

To begin with we need to go back to 2001 when an FAA Inspector from the Sacramento FSDO named Richard T. “Dilly” Dilbeck first decided that Charles E. Taylor needed to be remembered. Charlie's accomplishments were recognized by the FAA with the creation of the Charles E. Taylor Master Mechanic Award thanks to another FAA Inspector, William F. “Bill” O'Brien. Bill created this award for AMTs who had served at least 50 years in aircraft maintenance with a minimum of 30 of those years as a certificated A&P mechanic. This award is very prestigious and rightfully so. What Dilbeck did was expand the recognition Charlie deserved by having all 50 United States, Commonwealths, and Territories introduce and pass an AMT Day Resolution. OK, you ask, so what does this resolution do?

Dilbeck had then California Senator Knight introduce a resolution that officially recognized May 24th of every year as Aviation Maintenance Technician Day in honor of Charlie's birthday. This resolution remembers Taylor's place in history as being as important as that of the Wright brothers since it was Charlie who enabled the Wright Glider to become the Wright Flyer. But this resolution goes further and also recognizes the many skilled men and women who followed in Charles E. Taylor's footsteps in the craft Charlie created; the craft of today's AMT. In 2002 California became the first state to introduce and pass AMT Day.

May 24 is now recognized officially as a day to remember Charles E. Taylor and an entire craft and profession of skilled aviation professionals that carry the heavy responsibilities of providing safe, airworthy aircraft industrywide. An industry that requires a high standard of knowledge, skill, continuing education, and integrity now had a day to say thank you to the men and women who care for commercial, general aviation, corporate, private, civil, military, or experimental aircraft.

Thanks to Dilbeck's efforts in having California lead the way in passing the first AMT Day Resolution there are now more than 47 AMT Day Resolutions passed.

Because of his nature Charles E. Taylor did not look to profit on his accomplishments and the rapid advances in aircraft technology had basically caused history to forget Charles E. Taylor and in turn forgot, or at the very least took for granted, the contributions of all the AMTs that came after Charlie. These resolutions were created to return attention to a significant individual as well as a group of individuals who take their responsibilities seriously but do not seek the limelight.

AMT Day is a day for an industry to recognize those who are the very “Faces Behind Safety” in aircraft maintenance. AMT Day is a day to acknowledge the dedication, professionalism, and sacrifices of a proud profession. AMT Day is increasingly being celebrated throughout the aircraft maintenance community. AMT Day is Charles E. Taylor's Day!

You can learn more about Charles E. Taylor by reading the biography Charles E. Taylor: 1868 - 1956 The Wright Brothers Mechanician written by Howard R. DuFour with Peter J. Unitt. This book can be bought through Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway, Dayton, OH 45435.

Last year there were more than 30 Charles E. Taylor Day celebrations across the United States, If you or your aviation organization are planning on hosting a program or party, please forward any pictures and your story to Barb Zuehlke, Senior Editor, AMT Magazine, 1233 Janesville Ave., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538-2738, or you can also email the information and photographs to her at this address: barb.zuehlke@aviationpros.com.

I sincerely hope that each of you and your families, as well as your co-workers enjoy a great and memorable Charles E. Taylor Day Celebration, and that you remember our U.S. military personnel, and have a safe Memorial Day holiday. (Thanks to AMTSociety board member Ken MacTiernan for this article.)

2012 Maintenance Skills Competition

The 2012 AMTSociety Maintenance Skills Competition continued the tradition of the previous four years. This year there were 27 teams with international representation from China and Australia, with additional teams from aviation schools and military branches.

This year two events were removed and eight introduced. Two were created by mechanics that participated in the event last year. It shows that the event has struck a chord in the industry and people who want to give back to the industry have a way to do so; it's a win-win. The mechanics went back to management and said they wanted to do this and the events were created with sponsorship by Boeing and Alaska Airlines.

A mechanic from PPG introduced a product and an event at this year's show, an aircraft windshield hump seal repair kit. A mockup of a 767 fuselage made a colorful and bold attention-getter as part of the event.

This year's event was more successful in terms of awards presented. Each team that achieved the fastest score for an event won tools. A thank you to all the companies that provided events along with judges; the event wouldn't happen without you.

It's been an honor and a privilege to be a part of this. It's a positive event, and I'm lucky to be a board member and chairman of the event. And wait till next year, it promises to be even bigger. Mark your calendars for March 12-15, 2013 in Las Vegas.

– Ken MacTiernan, Maintenance Skills Competition Chairman/AMTSociety Director

The Winners:

State of AMTSociety Address

The address this month will center on activities scheduled for AMTSociety, the biggest being the Cygnus Aviation Exposition on March 7-9 in Las Vegas. At this time we have 30 teams committed to the Maintenance Skills Competition with 15 events, which also includes the “bragging rights.”

We also will make the presentations of the Scholarship Awards and AMTSociety Tom Hendershot Lifetime Achievement Award, plus the drawing of the Snap-on toolbox and tools for the scholarship raffle program.

The IA program will be held in the theater on Wednesday and Thursday, 8 to noon each day. There will also be presentations from NCATT and Operation Boot Strap. Come Friday morning at 9, the awards will be presented to the contestants in the Maintenance Skills Competition. A great time, sure hope you can attend.

Do you know your limitations?

Individuals often fail to realize that maintenance processes safety chains are made of complex tasks that are implemented and maintained by people. These people have different aptitudes, abilities, and training, and will operate under various conditions, organizational structures, procedures, and work scenarios.

The total composite of these elements, including the human component will determine the performance, safety, and efficiency of an organization. Safety chains are such that they ensure human capabilities are not stretched beyond limits. All aviation professionals should realize the important part they play in the safety chain.

2012 scholarship winners

AMTSociety is delighted to announce the winners of its 2012 scholarship programs. AMTSociety Scholarships were created to financially assist students in an approved AMT program, active duty military, reserve, and National Guard personnel, and those already certified in furthering their professional education and training. Academic and training scholarships are an integral part of AMTSociety's purpose and one way AMTSociety is committed to promoting future aircraft maintenance technicians in the highly skilled aircraft maintenance profession.

Each academic scholarship is valued at $1,500. The U.S. Military Scholarship is offered in conjunction with Baker's School of Aeronautics in Nashville, TN. This scholarship includes tuition for Baker's two-week A&P Mechanics Course, fees for oral and practical testing, hotel (11-13 days), and a $100 gift card from Kroger's.

Joe Hawkins, AMTSociety Director and Scholarship Chair, introduces the 2012 winners:

Need an IA?

Finding an IA is now easier than you think

As an aviation maintenance technician when working on an aircraft, have you ever thought I am going to need an AMT with an Inspection Authorization, i.e. an “IA”? Then thought, how will I find to find one?

Usually, IAs are found by word of mouth from other AMTs, by contacting a local FBO, repair station, or simply calling up the FSDO in your area. Well, that sounds simple enough. But what if you're in Tucson, AZ, and you're going to need an IA for an aircraft in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

You don't have to worry any more. Locating an IA is now just a mouse click away. Thanks to Mark Collins and Peter Foster, AMTSociety members and founders of FindanIA.com, a global dot com company.

The company, FindanIA.com Inc. was designed strictly for the sole purpose of finding, one or more, of the more than 22,000 FAA designated IAs located around the world. It's fast, it's easy, and better still, it's free.

The concept first started over 10 years ago over a cup of coffee that Collins and Foster were having while working as volunteers on a DC-3 restoration project for the city of Santa Monica, CA.

Aviation Experience

Over the years they pooled their ideas, relied on their years of aviation experience, with the goal of building a global aviation dot com company that would truly address the needs of the aviation maintenance industry. Hence the launch of www.FindanIA.com.

Both Collins and Foster have distinguishing careers in the aviation and aerospace industry.

Collins started his aviation career in the U.S. Navy, as a Petty Officer Collins served onboard the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy during The Persian Gulf war, where he operated the ships aircraft composites shop. After leaving a distinguished career in the Navy, he received his FAA airframe and powerplant licenses and began working for Continental Airlines as an AMT eventually leaving to become a manager in one of FedEx's most active, challenging aviation maintenance facilities.

He continues to work there today with 17 years of loyal and dedicated service. Collins is also an active FAA Safety Team member, and teaches an advanced composites course for FAA IA renewals for the AMTSociety IA renewal program. It is this background knowledge and experience that provided a foundation for the company.

Foster started his aviation career at age 16 at a local airport in Florida. His experience is global and covers the full gambit of the aviation, aerospace, government, and business world. He's a former captain and instructor on the Boeing 737, an experienced airframe and powerplant mechanic, with a designation of Inspection Authorization. His global management experience with airlines, maintenance repair organizations (MROs), FBOs, and other business enterprises both in and out of the aviation and aerospace, including time in government service, has served well in the formation and launch of the company.

Educators and more

Both founders have seats as faculty members in the aviation department of a public college, owned and operated by the state of California, where they teach aviation science as part-time adjunct professors.

Both men also do volunteer work within the aviation industry serving on several college aviation advisory boards and on the board of an aviation museum, as well as other nonprofit aviation organizations. However, Collins states that “one of my biggest honors is to serve on AMTSociety's board of directors.”

Some of the toughest challenges they faced were financing the project and working with U.S. government agencies for compliance. Fortunately, Foster called on his vast resources on Wall Street and in Washington, D.C. to overcome the challenges. Foster adds (with an irreverent smile) “Let's just say I cashed in a lot of chips.”

Filling industry need

It has been a long and hard road to launch FindanIA.com, but both Collins and Foster have listened to AMTs, IAs, managers of aircraft repair stations, maintenance executives, and aircraft owners and leasers from around the world throughout the aviation industry. They believe they are servicing a definite need in the industry.

This company not only lets someone search on their own for an IA but also focuses on helping place their contract IAs in repair stations in countries that have FAA certified MROs and FAA certified 145 repair stations with FAA certified airframe and powerplant mechanics, but do not have qualified FAA airframe and powerplant mechanics with Inspection Authorization.

The web site also has a toolbox page with links to help current IAs find emergency and current ADs, service bulletins, Type Certificate Data Sheets, Supplemental Type Certificates and forms, as well as training for renewal of their IA certificate. And there is a page to help the aviation maintenance technician who may wish to become an IA.

Foster admits that he has been surprised by an overwhelming number of aviation companies (not only from the United States, but globally) that have approached the company and expressed interest in the web site. The reason being, that people who need an IA to inspect the aircraft often also need someone to do supportive maintenance on the aircraft. So, by finding the IA in the area they require, this web site could also direct them to the services of these maintenance companies that the IA may work for.

Both men agree starting a global dot com company has not been easy and that the company is still in its infancy. There will be more challenges ahead. However, a majority of top experts and analysts in the aviation and Internet industries, seem to be unanimous in their opinion that this company is on its way.