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.

State of AMTSociety Address

Situational awareness starting from the time we leave home in the morning until the time we return, we as human beings get so busy because of all the things life throws at us, we sometimes forget about situational awareness. It does no one any good to get injured or killed either on the way to work or responding to a maintenance call for any aircraft.

We, being humans, can and do lose touch. It is therefore imperative that we as professionals stop and get a handle on what is actually going on before we throw ourselves into overdrive. I personally have been caught once or twice by just being in too much of a hurry to get the job done/completed, so I could put out the next fire. It seems that the simple task or the task we do all the time is the one that will come back to haunt us. Take a look around you and see all the things that can come and bite you when you least expect it. You may well know that someone else is working on the aircraft, but has he or she done all the things required to make the aircraft safe to work on? Go and check; maybe they have lost situational awareness in a way that will adversely affect you. You owe it to yourself, your co-workers; passengers; and your family to stop and get that grip on what is really going on ? all the time, every time.

On behalf of the board of directors and myself, we would like to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving; a very Merry Christmas; and a happy, safe, and prosperous New Year for 2012.

- Stay Safe, Tom Hendershot

Scholarship program

Please remember that completed scholarship request forms must be post marked December 15, 2011. Winners will be notified, and invited to attend the Cygnus Aviation Expo, March 7-9 with the formal awards program scheduled for March 9

AMTSociety golf outing

The weather was a picture perfect 75 at this year's AMTSociety Golf outing. A big thank you goes to Peter D. Zeeb, chairman, who with his committee conducted the best event ever. The outing started with lunch and registration at 12:15 p.m. followed by a shotgun start. When the match concluded, everyone was treated to a fine dinner with desert followed by the presentation of awards and prizes. I would like to thank the following hole sponsors for their generosity: AMT magazine, ARINC Direct, Cessna Aircraft, Corporate Jet Support, Dassault Falcon Jet, Dassault Falcon Services, Duncan Aviation, Gulfstream, Gulfstream Long Beach Spare Parts Sales, Haggan Aviation, Honeywell, StandardAero, Weststar Aviation, and World Fuel Services.

Additionally, the following donated: Caesars Entertainment: Food for the event; Dallas Airmotive: Beverage cart sponsor; Gulfstream Long Beach Spare Parts Sales: Golf towels for all golfers; Honeywell: Golf balls for all golfers; Satcom Direct: Golf balls for all golfers; and Snap-on Tools: Toolbox for the Par 3 Challenge.

And for all the great door prizes that were given out: AMT magazine, Corporate Jet Support, Dassault Falcon Jet, Gulfstream Spare Parts and Sales, Haggan Aviation, and West Star Aviation.

And Peter says next time will be even better; what a great endorsement from every one in support of AMTSociety Scholarship program.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The AMTSociety board of directors has created the AMTSociety Thomas E. “Tom” Hendershot Lifetime Achievement Award. This award will honor an individual from the aviation industry who has through his or her efforts been responsible for the improvement of the aviation industry; someone who has lead by setting a high standard of commitment and involvement to the aviation industry. Forms can be found on the AMTSociety web site; they must be postmarked by Dec. 15, 2011 and sent to Industry Award, 13183 Regulus Dr., Lone Tree, CO 80124-2931. The award will be presented on Friday, March 9, 2012 in conjunction with the Maintenance Skills Competition Awards Program at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Toolbox raffle

Please don't forget to purchase your tickets for AMTSociety Scholarship Program. Donation is $5 per ticket or three for $10. The drawing will be held Friday, March 9, 2012 during the MSC Awards Program and the winner need not be present to be eligible. The winner will receive a Snap-on KRA 4107D toolbox in your choice of color and with your choice of hand tools worth $2,500, and it will be shipped to your destination. Total value is $5,000. Remember it is tax deductible and revenue goes directly to the scholarship program.

Corporate sponsor: Silvertronic

Representing the North American Division, Silvertronic Inc. has established itself as a leading supplier of the highest quality fused and unfused instrument test leads and accessories. Its manufacturing facility, Silvertronic Limited, located in Great Britain, provides it with products that meet the highest quality standards available worldwide. Customized lead assemblies are its specialty, meeting its cus-tomers' special needs via application-specific products. Silvertronic Inc. also provides a range of prod-ucts under the SPECLEADS brand. This product family includes an extensive variety of electrical test clips and insulators. These products serve a variety of markets including: electrical, electronic, automotive, avionic, telecom, health and beauty, sport and leisure, and more!

Silvertronic Inc., established in 2005, continues to grow through new technology, advanced products, markets, and value-added capabilities. By meeting the needs of its customers it has created unique and useful tools. It also supplies all U.S. military branches with customized products meeting each segment's unique needs.

OX5 Aviation Pioneers

Thomas Hendershot was inducted into the OX5 Aviation Pioneers Hall of Fame in Hammondsport, NY, at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum on Sept. 23-25, 2011.

Pictures from the OX5 Aviation Pioneers Hall of Fame. Tom Hendershot was inducted in September. The event lasted over a span of three days with tours, presentations, and awards.

State of AMTSociety Address

We have been extremely busy of late with representing you, the membership, at various meetings some of which will be discussed this month.
On Sunday, Sept. 9, 2011 I attended a meeting with Melvin O. “Mel” Cintron, Division Manager of the General Aviation and Commercial Division, AFS-800. The main point discussed was the FAA AMT Awards Program. There are indications across the United States that the infrastructure for training, safety, and self-improvement is being used by the number of individuals who have or are registered on FAASafety.gov and completed courses, or have made entries for courses they have completed elsewhere. I would encourage each and every one of you to register, complete a “core program,” enter your completed data, and receive an award. If you have further questions, review AC 65-26E or contact me with your concerns.

Aviation Technician Education Council

The semi-annual ATEC board of directors meeting was conducted on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11, in addition to the afternoon session on Friday with FAA/AFS-300 at Enfont Plaza Headquarters. The schools for A&P training that participate in the organization are also involved in the FAA's FAR 147 ARAC. Although more than two years was committed to this very important project, it is still under review and we are not certain of a definite date for the industry.

Emily Griffith Technical College

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) donated a jet engine to the airplane hangar of West High School where young students explore the science of aviation. On Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, this prototype Continental J69 engine was presented as part of an Education Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the U.S. Air Force Academy's Department of Aeronautics, Emily Griffith Technical College, and Denver West High School.

In close partnership with Emily Griffith Technical College (EGTC), West High School is one of only a few such programs in the country, promoting aviation maintenance technology to high school students interested in a career in aviation.

As Colonel Neal Barlow, chair of the Academy's Engineering Division expressed, “We are excited to share this engine with West High School as an excellent teaching tool and to motivate another generation of students to pursue careers in aviation as well as science, technology, engineering, and math.”

Added member benefits

For all new members after September you will receive a one-year subscription to Trade-A-Plane. A copy will be delivered to your address every month for one year. This is for new members only.

In support of your dedication to the future of the aviation community, Avjobs is offering a special discount. Eligible participants are provided with an extended free service period of 12 months added to the end of an existing account's regular subscription cycle. You will have to provide documentation of being an AMTSociety member or having a certificate of completion from the AMTSociety IA renewal training program. There will be a special offers form on the Avjobs web site.

2011-2012 AMTSociety IA Renewal Consortium Program

The first IA Renewal program was held Sept. 17 at Crimson Technical College in Los Angeles. Speakers included Bob Hobbi from Service Elements, Dan Prairie from Textron-Bell Helicopter, Mark Collins from FedEx, Paul M. Foster from the FAA, and Ross Gregory from the FAASTeam.

– Stay safe, Tom Hendershot

Actively Engaged

For those of you who are not aware the policy clarifying the definition of “actively engaged” for purposes of Inspection Authorization policy becomes effective Sept. 6, 2011. The FAA views the actively engaged requirement as providing maintenance experience relevant to conducting inspections. Similarly, the two-year period provides the receiving of experience in maintenance performance or supervision necessary to conduct inspections.

“The FAA previously determined involvement solely in an academic environment is not actively engaged. Refresher training attendance alone does not satisfy the requirements.”
To see the explanation in the Federal Register visit http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-08-04/pdf/2011-19741.pdf.

CFR Title 14: Aeronautics and Space, FAR 65 Subpart D – Mechanics § 65.91 Inspection Authorization: FAR 65.91 (c) (1) – (4)

3. To be eligible for an inspection authorization, an applicant must –
   1. Hold a currently effective mechanic certificate with both an airframe rating and a powerplant rating, each of which is currently effective and has been in effect for a total of at least three years;
   2. Have been actively engaged, for at least the two-year period before the date he applies, in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with this chapter;
   3. Have a fixed base of operations at which he may be located in person or by telephone during a normal working week but it need not be the place where he will exercise his inspection authority;
   4. Have available to him the equipment, facilities, and inspection data necessary to properly inspect airframes, powerplants, propellers, or any related part or appliance;

§ 65.93 Inspection Authorization: Renewal

1. To be eligible for renewal of an inspection authorization for a two-year period an applicant must present evidence during the month of March of each odd-numbered year, at an FAA Flight Standards District Office or an International Field Office, that the applicant still meets the requirements of § 65.91(c) (1) through (4). In addition, during the time the applicant held the inspection authorization, the applicant must show completion of one of the activities in § 65.93(a) (1) through (5) below by March 31 of the first year of the two-year inspection authorization period, and completion of one of the five activities during the second year of the two-year period:
   1. Performed at least one annual inspection for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority; or
   2. Performed at least two major repairs or major alterations for each 90 days that the applicant held the current authority; or
   3. Performed or supervised and approved at least one progressive inspection in accordance with standards prescribed by the Administrator; or
   4. Attended and successfully completed a refresher course, acceptable to the Administrator, of not less than 8 hours of instruction; or
   5. Passed an oral test by an FAA inspector to determine that the applicant's knowledge of applicable regulations and standards is current.
2. The holder of an inspection authorization that has been in effect:
   1. for less than 90 days before the expiration date need not comply with paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section.
   2. for less than 90 days before March 31 of an even-numbered year need not comply with paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section for the first year of the two-year inspection authorization period.
3. An inspection authorization holder who does not complete one of the activities set forth in § 65.93(a) (1) through (5) of this section by March 31 of the first year of the two-year inspection authorization period may not exercise inspection authorization privileges after March 31 of the first year. The inspection authorization holder may resume exercising inspection authorization privileges after passing an oral test from an FAA inspector to determine that the applicant's knowledge of the applicable regulations and standards is current. An inspection authorization holder who passes this oral test is deemed to have completed the requirements of § 65.93(a) (1) through (5) by March 31 of the first year.

Under the new definition, on meeting § 65.91(c)(1) through (4) requirements, refresher training attendance alone does not satisfy those requirements. In addition to AMTSociety's IA renewal training, you must also comply with the “actively engaged” requirements in FAR 65.91(c)(1)-(4) to meet the requirements of IA renewal.

Carol E. Giles retires

On Wednesday, July 20, 86 former co-workers and individuals from the industry gathered for dinner and a retirement program for a longtime friend and advocate of AMTSociety, Carol E. Giles. After 31 years of service to the FAA in many job assignments, and the last three years as the division manager of the Aircraft Maintenance Division AFS-300 in the Flight Standard Service located in Washington, D.C., Carol has strongly committed to the AMTSociety Scholarship Golf Outing and also the Maintenance Skills Competition in Las Vegas. Thank you for all you have done for the mechanics in the diversified areas Carol, and happy days in your retirement. We will surely miss you. Thank you all very much for your involvement in AMTSociety.

General Aviation Awards

Recipients of the 2011 National General Aviation Awards are Joseph “Joe” Morales (A&P, IA, CFI) of Lakewood, CO, AMT of the Year; Russell John “Russ” Callender, FAA repairman and pilot of Houlton, WI, Avionics Technician of the Year; Vicki Lynn Sherman, MCFI of DeLand, FL, FAASTeam Representative of the Year; and Judy Ann Phelps, MCFI-A of Santa Paula, CA, Certified Flight Instructor of the Year.

Since national FAA representation was noticeably absent because of the shutdown, a plan B for Wednesday evening's awards presentation at Theater in the Woods was engineered. Valerie Palazzio, Great Lakes Region FAASTeam program manager, and JoAnne Hill, National General Aviation Awards Program Chairman, explained the Industry/FAA Awards program to an audience of approximately 3,000 AirVenture attendees. They outlined the nomination process and encouraged the audience to nominate worthy individuals in the four GA awards categories. They also explained that the program's expenses and the gifts for the four national winners are provided by the industry's program supporters/donors.

In lieu of FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt, four previous national award winners, one in each category, were recruited to present each 2011 winner with his or her plaque. As 2003 National AMT of the Year, Tom Hendershot presented the plaque to Joe Morales. Al Ingle, 2003 National Avionics Technician of the Year presented to Russ Callender.

The GA Awards Committee hosted a luncheon on Thursday July 23 at EAA that was attended by 65 people. The award recipients received gifts from the industry, including monogrammed jackets from AMTSociety.

AMTSociety's first International corporate sponsor

Welcome to David Van Den Langenbergh, airworthiness manager for ABELAG Premier Private Jet Services located at the Brussels National Airport, Zaventem, Belgium.

He communicated to Tom Hendershot saying, “Our maintenance department is 95 percent focused on in-house maintenance of the ABELAG fleet. Of course we do support those that are in need on our apron. Since we are the only business jet operator and FBO at the Brussels Airport, we provide AOG support, etc.

“We can share a lot of experience on EASA Part 145 and Part 66 maintenance aspects. Running a Part 145 department in Europe can be a challenge. “I'm not looking for exposure as a company, just think it is important to be part of the worldwide aviation family.” Very well stated David, and on behalf of AMTSociety board of directors, we welcome you.

AMTSociety annual golf outing

Please sign up for the annual AMTSociety Scholarship Golf Outing at the Rio Secco Golf Course in Las Vegas, NV, on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011. There are some really great awards, and you'll be sure to have a good time. Visit www.AMTSociety.org to register.
– Stay safe. Tom Hendershot

Scholarship fund donation

Attached is a letter from one of our members where he makes a donation to the Charles E. Taylor Scholarship Fund and tells us about his great friend. This is one way to help us pursue our goal for the education of people in the aviation maintenance/avionics areas.

Please accept the enclosed donation to AMTSociety's Charles E. Taylor Scholarship Fund. It is given in memory of Gregory Schaffer, a good friend of mine who passed away June 3, 2011 while working in Israel. Greg started out his aircraft maintenance career working as a mechanic on B52 bombers while in the Air Force. I worked with him in the '70s and '80s while we were A&P mechanics at North Central and Republic Airlines. Greg then moved on to start a very successful career at FedEx and put in more than 25 years there as a mechanic, maintenance representative, and most currently worked in the aircraft acquisition area. Greg touched people all over the world. Here are some excerpts from his guest book: “I first met Greg in August 1975 when we started at North Central Airlines. I have many great memories of working with Greg on MSP night line for both North Central and Republic. He will truly be missed by everyone who knew him.”
“Greg worked in my group in Airframe Vendor Management at FedEx for many years. He was a dedi-cated and knowledgeable aviation professional and a great person that was always a pleasure to be around. He will be dearly missed by all of his friends at FedEx.”

“Working with Greg was always a pleasure. Not only was Greg a wonderful co-worker but a dear friend as well. He was always a pleasure to be around.”

“Greg's dedication and commitment to creating outstanding experiences through his role, along with living the “Purple Promise” each day, are what bind us together now in spirit.”

“Greg was an awesome guy who I truly enjoyed working with. The aviation community has lost a true gentleman and professional.” As all of us AMTs know, the aviation community is actually a small close-knit group. Greg has touched a lot of us. Aviation has lost a very good person.
– Daniel Broten, Instructor, Alabama Aviation Center, Ozark, AL

Corporate Member: Vaughn College

Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology was established more than 70 years ago in New Jersey. Now based near LaGuardia Airport in Flushing, NY, it offers degrees in aircraft operations, airport man-agement, airline management, aviation maintenance, electronic engineering technology, aviation maintenance management. The Aviation Training Institute was created in 2001 which offers the aviation maintenance certificate program. Students can earn their FAA airframe and powerplant certificate in as little as 16 months. Aviation maintenance training is one of the college's most popular academic offerings. More than 400 of Vaughn's total student population of 1,500 were enrolled in the Aviation Training Institute in 2011. Students hone their mechanical skills, working on more than a dozen aircraft ranging from the piston-power Cessna 182, Piper Seneca, and Aztecs to the complexities of turbine aircraft such as King Air.

Vaughn's Aviation Training Institute offers state-of-the-art nondestructive testing (NDT), enabling students to prepare for real-world problem-solving. In the composites lab, students study both wet lay-up and pre-preg applications of advance composite materials. The proper use of bagging procedures as well as hot bonding repairs are also extensively covered.

The college's turbine engine test cells provide ample run-up opportunities for students on PT-6s and CJ610s. A newly renovated FAA-authorized Lasergrade test center provides students with all written exams offered by the administration, including the general, airframe, and powerplant exams.

Vaughn College has housed a student chapter of AMTSociety since 2009, and the College's Executive Director of Training, Domenic Proscia, has served on the Aviation Technician Education Council board of directors for more than seven years.
For more information visit www.vaughn.edu or call (719) 429-6600.

State of AMTSociety Address

I want to direct your attention to the AMTSociety scholarship program. Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology vice president of marketing, Damon R. Bowling, and I have worked out a terrific addition to the program. There will be five scholarships for Spartan. They are valued at $1,500 each and consist of Associate of Applied Science Avionics Maintenance Technology, Aviation Maintenance Technology, Avionics Maintenance Technology, Associate of Applied Science Aviation Maintenance Technology, Nondestructive Testing, or Associate of Applied Science Quality Control Programs. That brings our scholarship total to nine as of this writing. Be sure to check with the web site for additional information. Should you have any further questions, contact Chairman Joseph C. Hawkins or myself.

Remember the deadline for a complete entry for all scholarships is December 15, 2011.

- Stay Safe, Tom Hendershot

State of AMTSociety Address

Maintenance safety requires training/recurrent training. Although you may have been working in the aviation industry for a number of years, perhaps for the same company and even on familiar equipment, situations may arise where changes have occurred to company policy, procedures, or modifications have been implemented to equipment and/or systems, and/or there have been additions to the fleet. All too often we rely on our past knowledge and experience, unblemished record, or peer pressure, and then continue on with business as usual.

Instead maybe we should say "I don't know," stop, and get help or get training. This may be a good time to take a moment and evaluate the entire situation to see if indeed you do meet the training requirements needed to accomplish the task at hand. Don't let ego or peer pressure get in the way of safety.

Spartan tool presentation
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology hosted the presentation of the Snap-on toolbox and tools to the college on Thursday June 2, 2011. The tools and toolbox worth more than $5,000 were offered as part of AMTSociety's scholarship toolbox raffle won by Michael A. Molzahn, an alumnus of Spartan. When Molzahn won, he said he would donate the tools and toolbox to Spartan and contacted the school to get a list of what the school needed. When Snap-on was notified of what Molzahn intended to do with his prize, the company added another $1,000 worth of special tools for the school. On hand at the presentation was Malcolm Tracy, account manager, Snap-on Tools; Damon R. Bowling, vice president, marketing/admissions, Spartan; Ron Worthington, vice president, student services (also the organizer of the program); Michael A. Molzahn; and Tom Hendershot.

I hope that you and your family enjoy a very nice summer. Be safe.
- Tom Hendershot

State of AMTSociety Address

IA renewal
AMTSociety IA Renewal Consortium program concluded on a positive note Saturday, April 9 in Orlando, FL, in conjunction with ATEC at the 51st annual conference of the Aviation Technicians Education Council. It is nice to report to you that our overall attendance increased again to 1,096, which represents an increase for each of the past three years.

I've already started to work on the schedule for the fall of 2011 and spring of 2012. Please watch the upcoming issues of AMT and our web sites for the new schedule.
-- Tom Hendershot

Membership program
"Refer-a-Friend Program" is effective April 1, 2011; you will receive a free Snap-on ratcheting screwdriver with AMTSociety logo engraved on the handle when you refer friends to join. All new members to AMTSociety will also receive a screwdriver. The limited edition screwdrivers will be given as long as supplies last. A $61.75 value, the screwdriver is in addition to all the other AMTSociety benefits.

Aviation technician groups unite
AMTSociety, the National Business Aviation Association Maintenance Committee, and the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association have agreed to align their common interests on behalf of aviation technicians throughout the industry. Meeting recently at the NBAA Maintenance Managers Conference in San Diego, leaders of each group agreed to collaborate on issues related to aviation maintenance, including regulatory concerns, National AMT Day, and the education of technicians. This initiative puts together for the first time, a prominent force dedicated to promoting the aircraft technician and professionalism within the ranks. Each organization will maintain its autonomy and mission while partnering on issues of mutual interest.

Meeting at the NBAA Maintenance Managers Conference in San Diego, leaders of AMTSociety, PAMA, and NBAA agreed to collaborate on issues related to aviation maintenance, including regulatory concerns, National AMT Day, and the education of technicians.

State of AMTSociety Address

IA renewal
AMTSociety IA Renewal Consortium program concluded on a positive note Saturday, April 9 in Orlando, FL, in conjunction with ATEC at the 51st annual conference of the Aviation Technicians Education Council. It is nice to report to you that our overall attendance increased again to 1,096, which represents an increase for each of the past three years.

I've already started to work on the schedule for the fall of 2011 and spring of 2012. Please watch the upcoming issues of AMT and our web sites for the new schedule.
-- Tom Hendershot

Membership program
"Refer-a-Friend Program" is effective April 1, 2011; you will receive a free Snap-on ratcheting screwdriver with AMTSociety logo engraved on the handle when you refer friends to join. All new members to AMTSociety will also receive a screwdriver. The limited edition screwdrivers will be given as long as supplies last. A $61.75 value, the screwdriver is in addition to all the other AMTSociety benefits.

Aviation technician groups unite
AMTSociety, the National Business Aviation Association Maintenance Committee, and the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association have agreed to align their common interests on behalf of aviation technicians throughout the industry. Meeting recently at the NBAA Maintenance Managers Conference in San Diego, leaders of each group agreed to collaborate on issues related to aviation maintenance, including regulatory concerns, National AMT Day, and the education of technicians. This initiative puts together for the first time, a prominent force dedicated to promoting the aircraft technician and professionalism within the ranks. Each organization will maintain its autonomy and mission while partnering on issues of mutual interest.

Meeting at the NBAA Maintenance Managers Conference in San Diego, leaders of AMTSociety, PAMA, and NBAA agreed to collaborate on issues related to aviation maintenance, including regulatory concerns, National AMT Day, and the education of technicians.

State of AMTSociety Address

AMTSociety Mx Logs Update

How aware are you?
In the first phase of the FAA Human Factors in Aviation Maintenance study, the FAA determined that one of the major obstacles to technicians achieving productivity goals was their inability to see the big picture.

Often technicians are given only their piece of the puzzle; for example, being assigned tasks with deadlines without explanation or direction, a just-do-it assignment. Another common situation is performing a portion of a major task, possibly without training or explanation as to how their actions affect the overall task.

Accidents and incidents occur when we are unaware of others and when focus is lost. If we train ourselves to be more aware of others while focused on the task at hand, we have taken a major step toward accident and incident prevention in the workplace. To help you stay focused, continually, ask these three questions: How do we achieve situational awareness; how do we know we have situational awareness; and how do we know we have lost situational awareness? Stay alert and stay safe!

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Are you sure that you know how to handle that substance in your hand? What if it spilled, splattered, or dropped on you or your co-worker? Would you know how to administer first-aid? Did you take the proper precautions to prevent cancer, fire, or poisoning yourself?

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) all come with questionable substances and are provided to warn the user on how to handle the substance, provide the proper ventilation, exposure cautions, and how to administer first-aid in case of an accident while in use. The long-term negative effects from mishandling substances can easily be avoided by following these instructions. They come with telephone numbers and contact information for clarification of instructions.

These instructions should be kept alphabetically near the storage area of the substance as well as in the area where the substance is most often used. It is also suggested that the pages be placed in plastic sheet protectors. The table of contents should be immediately updated when a new substance is brought into the facility. The MSDS sheets should be verified for accuracy and currency when a new batch is brought in. If two MSDS books are used they should be evaluated at the same time. It is suggested that the MSDS books be evaluated, initialed, and dated at least once a month. The information in these books could extend your life or save the life of your co-worker. Please do everyone a favor and be familiar with them.

AMTSociety Scholarship program
Congratulations are in order for the following individuals:

• Charles E. Taylor Scholarship: Samantha R. Fowler, Cave City, AR, University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville
• William F. "Bill" O'Brien Scholarship: Dillon R. Gardner, Alamosa, CA, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
• Thomas E. "Tom" Hendershot Scholarship: Travis L. Beach, Westminster,
• U.S. Military Scholarship: Todd Grote, Coast Guard Air Station #41, Corpus Christi, TX, United States Coast Guard

The winners have been invited to attend the Cygnus Aviation Expo in Las Vegas. Each of them will receive their respective plaque and be introduced to the attendees of the International Maintenance Skills Competition. There were 167 scholarship application packages reviewed by the scholarship committee. Chairman Joseph C. Hawkins is to be congratulated for an excellent program this year. They are looking forward to an increase of applications this year.

Be safe.
-- Tom Hendershot

2011 Maintenance Skills Competition winners
We'll have more in the next issue but here's a quick rundown: First place in the Military category was the U.S. Navy Gold team. First place in the Schools category was Colorado (Redstone). First place in the MRO/OEM category was AMP. First place for the Commercial category for the second year in a row was Southwest. The team with the fastest score of two hours, 44 minutes, and 24 seconds was Southwest which means the team also won the William "Bill" O'Brien Award for Excellence in Aircraft Maintenance which was presented by Marie O'Brien.

State of AMTSociety Address

On behalf of AMTSociety, the board of directors, and staff, I would like to wish you good health and happiness this year!

As you know, our industry has not been immune to the impact of the recession. The good news is that we believe aviation is on the upswing and we are part of the solution. The skills and dedication of our aircraft maintenance professionals set us apart. Each of us lives and breathes our industry and I am sure you share my belief that we will not only survive, but thrive, during the months and years to come.

AMTSociety has existed to serve your IA renewal needs for four years by offering quality education programs in convenient locations. Our relationship with the FAA has ensured our ongoing ability to meet your continuing education hours.

Please note that due to the current economic conditions, we will be introducing an $18 IA renewal fee for all registrations received after Dec. 31, 2010. The fee will be payable online or during on-site registration of the event. My team will continue to work diligently in maintaining a program that offers great value and convenience to our members.

I appreciate your continued commitment to AMTSociety and promise, individually and as an organization, we remain committed to promoting, protecting, and enhancing our craft and the aviation industry.

Be safe.
-- Tom Hendershot

Ground Operations
As winter gets in to full swing across the country, as mechanics we should be aware of its impact on our surface operations at the airport. Operating on a snow or ice-covered surface - either in a ground vehicle or an aircraft - requires an extra degree of caution. Movement of ground equipment should be done in a manner that allows you to avoid sliding or skidding into other equipment or aircraft, or skidding across hold lines.

Extreme caution also is required/needed when towing an aircraft due to the added weight, and the fact that most of the time you are relying solely on the braking action of the tug to stop both the aircraft and the tug. On wet, slick, or icy surfaces, the aircraft in tow can suddenly jackknife out of control as you turn or attempt to stop. The same cautions must also be adhered to when taxiing on aircraft in these conditions.

When diminished braking action is present, the aircraft can slide off taxiways and/or runways if one is not careful. When you are taxiing and approaching hold lines and turns, be sure to use minimal speed to ensure your ability to come to a stop prior to the hold line or to avoid skidding off the taxiway. Another very important factor, as with all ground operations, keep your eyes outside the cockpit while taxiing and be sure to adhere to all ATC instructions.

Toolbox raffle
To support the AMTSociety Scholarship Awards program, Snap-on Industrial is donating a $2,500 seven-drawer toolbox, Model KRA4107D, along with $2,500 Snap-on tools of the winner's choice. Measuring 40" x 20", the toolbox will be awarded to the winner of a drawing following the Maintenance Skills

Corporate Sponsors
Competition on Feb. 25, 2011 in Las Vegas. The winner can decide on the color along with $2,500 worth of Snap-on tools of his or her choice.

The cost of the tickets is one for $5 or three for $10 and is tax deductible as the scholarship fund is under 501(c)3 status. Tickets will be available at IA seminars, Cygnus Aviation Expo, and from the board of directors.

Mark your calendars 2010-2011 IA Roadshow
Please take the time to review the schedule below, and keep in mind that this training is not just for the holders of Inspection Authorization but for all personnel involved in the aircraft maintenance process. The previous IA renewals have been well attended and we appreciate you taking the time to attend and benefit from the speakers and training that we provide. If you are going to attend, please preregister so we can plan accordingly.

• Feb. 16, 2011, Kansas City, MO
• Feb. 23-24, 2011, Aviation Industry Expo, Las Vegas
• March 16, 2011, Aurora, CO
• April 9, 2011, ATEC Annual Meeting & FAA/DME Renewal, Orlando, FL

AMTSociety Scholarships
At the December board of directors' meeting, it was unanimously decided that notification will be sent to each of the winners upon the committee's selection. That will give the recipient of each award the chance to attend (at their expense) the Cygnus Aviation Expo to be held in Las Vegas where the winners will be formally announced on Friday, Feb. 25, 2011. Contact Joseph C. Hawkins, scholarship chairman or Tom Hendershot for additional information.

AMTSociety would like to thank Michael A. Molzahn for his very gracious donation again this year to the scholarship program. It is very much appreciated. This is one way we can give the students today the financial help to keep this great industry trained and well-prepared.

Maintenance Skills Competition
The AMTSociety's 4th Annual Maintenance Skills Competition (MSC) will be held in just a few short weeks, Feb. 23 -25th, 2011. It is again being held in Las Vegas during the Cygnus Aviation Expo. The MSC has grown from just nine teams in 2008 to 15 teams in 2010 to 25 teams in 2011. There doesn't seem to be a slow down in the interest in companies, organizations, or individuals teaming up who want to compete.

The 2011 MSC will again see the return of international teams from China and Australia as well as a scheduled team of AMTs forming Team Mexico! The 2011 MSC will see the entry of some new teams most notably Team Boeing, Team Alaska, and Team UPS. But there is also an entrant that is competing to show the industry that they are serious about the AMT craft and profession. This team is the Association of Maintenance Professionals (AMP) and they are currently in the process of trying to represent the AMT craft and class at American Airlines. MSC provides an opportunity to showcase the knowledge, skill, and integrity each and every AMT/AME possesses in order to provide safe, airworthy aircraft.

As the chairman for the MSC it is my honor to assemble the events for the MSC, which would not be possible without the support of the companies who supply the events, but my privilege to be associated with the many men and women who compete in each and every MSC! See you in Las Vegas!

-- Ken MacTiernan, Director AMTSociety, Chairman MSC

Corporate Sponsor: Bell Helicopter
Founded in 1935 as Bell Aircraft Corp., Bell continues to set the pace for the industry and expand the scope of vertical lift. Bell Helicopter was the first to obtain certification for a commercial helicopter. Over its rich history, Bell has delivered more than 35,000 aircraft to its customers around the world.

With forward thinking in advanced concepts, Bell Helicopter invented tilt rotor aircraft. These unique aircraft lift like a helicopter, then fly like an airplane with twice the speed, three times the payload, and five times the range of traditional helicopters.

Headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, Bell Helicopter has additional plants in Amarillo, TX, and Mirabel, Canada. It maintains key logistics supply and service centers in Europe, Canada, and Singapore as well as in the United States.

Corporate Sponsor: Dassault Falcon
Dassault Falcon is responsible for selling and supporting Falcon business jets throughout the world. It is part of Dassault Aviation, with a presence in more than 70 countries across five continents. Dassault Aviation produces the Rafale fighter jet as well as the complete line of Falcon business jets.

The company has assembly and production plants in both France and the United States and service facilities on multiple continents. It employs a total work force of more than 12,000. Since the rollout of the first Falcon 20 in 1963, 2,000 Falcon jets have been delivered to 67 countries worldwide. The family of Falcon jets currently in production includes the tri-jets - the Falcon 900EX EASy, 900LX, and the 7X -- as well as the twin-engine Falcon 2000LX.

Falcon Customer Service provides product support and assistance to operators of all Falcons, from legacy aircraft to the most modern models. Call anytime at: (201) 541-4747 or (33) 1 4711 3737.