AMC Reveals New Look, Elects New Leaders, Announces The Competition at VERTICON

On the first news post of its new website, the Council is proud to recognize three new leaders to its board of directors. These new directors join fellow aerospace company representatives in supporting the non-profit's mission to promote and celebrate aviation maintenance professionals and will support the Council as it expands its reach, with plans to hold two maintenance competitions in 2025. 

Entering its twelfth year, the flagship Aerospace Maintenance Council Competition Presented by Snap-on attracts professional and school teams from around the world. The 2025 event will take place at Aviation Week Network’s MRO Americas in Atlanta from April 8-10. In addition, a second event is scheduled for Vertical Aviation International’s (VAI) VERTICON in Dallas from March 10-13, 2025.

Council president and former NTSB member John Goglia attributes the expansion to outsized demand. “Last year we had to turn away 30 waitlisted teams for the Competition at MRO Americas,” said Goglia. “By adding a second event, we hope to make the opportunity available to any school or company that wants to highlight and celebrate their professional and future aviation mechanics." 

As part of this expansion, the Council welcomes former FAA Acting Deputy Associate Administrator of Aviation Safety and current VAI President and CEO James Viola to its board. “We are pleased to partner with the Council to bring this event to our annual trade show, highlighting the men and women who ensure the safety of vertical flight,” said Viola. “The Competition has been a lightning rod for mentoring students and incoming professionals, and that is something we are eager to amplify at VERTICON.”

In addition to Viola, the Council welcomes two additional directors elected to serve four-year terms:

• Kevin Kirkpatrick, Vice President of Aftermarket Global Operations at Pratt & Whitney, brings over 20 years of diverse experience, including leadership roles in military engines and commercial engines aftermarket operations. He follows in the footsteps of previous board member Joseph Sylvestro, who recently retired as Senior Vice President of Aftermarket and Sustainment Operations.
• Greg Feith, a former NTSB Senior Air Safety Investigator and “Go-Team” Captain, spent over 21 years leading investigations for high-profile aircraft accidents, including ValuJet in the Florida Everglades and Korean Air in Guam. He holds a BS from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, various pilot certifications, and has received numerous industry awards. Greg is a recognized aviation safety expert, appearing on television programs and serving as the Aviation Safety Analyst for NBC News.

“We are incredibly grateful to our industry volunteers that serve on the board in addition to their very busy day jobs,” said Goglia. “It’s a testamant to the importance given to mentorship and support of the young people that are the future of aviation. Their dedication ensures the continued growth and excellence of our profession.”

The Competition @ MRO Americas presented by Snap-on will accommodate 90, five-person teams. The Competition @ VERTICON will accommodate 40, three-person teams. Team registration for both events open on October 1. 

Event sponsorship for The Competition @ MRO Americas is SOLD OUT. The Council is still seeking a presenting sponsor for The Competition @ VERTICON and accepting event proposals for The Competition @ VERTICON on a first come, first served basis.