Tribute to Charles Taylor the Father of Aircraft Maintenance

Episode 71

This special episode celebrates the legacy of Charlie Taylor as the father if aircraft maintenance. Taylor built the first aircraft engine used by the Wright brothers in the Wright Flyer. He set the professional standards followed by professional aircraft mechanics today.

Special guests are:

• Ken Mactiernan, Director at the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association


• David Supplee, President/Directing General Chair at Air Transport District 142, IAMAW


• Chris Moore and Bob Fisher, International Representatives, Airline Division at International Brotherhood of Teamsters

The professionalism defined by Taylor has served as the foundation of aviation safety as the industry has evolved. Looking to the future, aircraft mechanics are playing important roles in SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and unmanned drone flight.

The discussion covers many ways professional excellence is fostered today. The Aerospace Maintenance Competition held in ​in conjunction with Aviation Week Network’s MRO Americas lets current and future maintenance professionals showcase their abilities and see how they stack up against peers across the country. The FAA Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of senior mechanics, including John Goglia.

Flight Safety Detectives is sponsored by Avemco Insurance. Mention the Flight Safety Detectives podcast and receive a 5% discount!

Photo: Charlie Taylor and Wilbur Wright attach a canoe onto a new Flyer at Governor's Island New York, October 1909, by George Grantham Bain Collection - Library of Congress Catalog

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Music: “Inspirational Sports” license ASLC-22B89B29-052322DDB8