From the Author: Building the Future of Aviation Maintenance

The Journey Begins

I never set out to become a textbook writer. Writing books was simply a means to an end. In 2007, I was hired to teach an Avionics Technician program at a college in Arizona. On the first day, I walked into a classroom with sixteen eager students ready to learn. However, I quickly discovered there were no materials to teach them. No textbooks, no tests, no lab exercises, and no usable curriculum.

The college had made an honest attempt to build an avionics program. Unfortunately, the curriculum had been created by A&P mechanics, many of whom were former military personnel. They didn’t have real-world experience as avionics technicians. By then, I had worked in avionics in the Air Force and supported line maintenance and heavy checks at two major airlines. I knew firsthand the skills technicians needed to succeed on the job.

The Birth of a Program

So, I started writing. Over the next ten years, I built that program from the ground up. I spent thousands of unpaid hours creating PowerPoints, worksheets, lab exercises, tests, and eventually, full textbooks for every course. I wrote with one principle in mind: aviation maintenance depends on technicians who can read, understand, and follow written instructions. Our industry is one of the most highly regulated professions in the world. Every task — from inspections and troubleshooting to ordering parts — must be documented and performed exactly as described in FAA-approved maintenance instructions, work cards, and inspection forms.

When the program ended in 2017, my work didn’t stop. I’ve continued teaching at other institutions, served as a Director of Maintenance and Chief Inspector, and turned wrenches again as an A&P mechanic. I’ve also continued sharing what I’ve learned. But I’ve watched the industry change — and not always for the better. Aging aircraft fleets, supply chain challenges, skilled labor shortages, and the retirement of experienced technicians have all created new pressures.

The Changing Landscape of Aviation

In the past, replacing retiring technicians wasn’t a problem. The industry’s wages and opportunities spoke for themselves. But today, that model doesn’t work as well. We need a new generation of technicians who are deeply trained, technically skilled, and ready to step into a rapidly evolving field.

One of the biggest challenges is that many younger people are simply not growing up with the same hands-on experience or technical foundation that previous generations had. Fewer parents are teaching mechanical skills at home. Additionally, fewer young people spend their formative years fixing things, building projects, or maintaining equipment. As a result, many are less comfortable entering careers that require them to work with their hands, outdoors, and in all weather conditions — 365 days a year.

Equally concerning is the decline in foundational skills like reading and following written technical instructions. This discipline is absolutely essential for aviation maintenance, where safety depends on precise compliance with procedures, manuals, and regulatory documentation.

New book on my website or on Amazon

The Importance of Training

That is why I continue to write. These handbooks — including this volume on Aircraft Glass Cockpit Systems — are built to pass on real-world knowledge, regulatory understanding, and hands-on skills that technicians need on day one. My goal is simple: to prepare the next generation of avionics professionals for the challenges ahead and to ensure the industry I’ve dedicated my life to continues to thrive.

The Role of Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of aviation maintenance. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about ensuring safety and efficiency. Every technician must understand the regulations that govern their work. This understanding is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our operations. I emphasize this in my teaching and writing.

Bridging the Skills Gap

To bridge the skills gap, we must innovate our training methods. Traditional classroom settings are important, but they need to be complemented with hands-on experiences. I advocate for more interactive learning environments. Simulations, workshops, and real-world projects can engage students and provide them with the practical skills they need.

The Future of Aviation Maintenance

Looking ahead, I see a bright future for aviation maintenance. With the right training and resources, we can cultivate a new generation of skilled technicians. They will be equipped to tackle the challenges of modern aviation. As we adapt to new technologies and methodologies, we must also remain committed to the core principles of safety and compliance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my journey from a classroom with no materials to creating comprehensive training resources has been fulfilling. I am passionate about shaping the future of aviation maintenance. By focusing on education, regulatory compliance, and hands-on training, we can ensure that our industry not only survives but thrives. Let’s work together to build a stronger foundation for the next generation of aviation professionals.