The Vertical MRO Podcast

• Episode 44: Hoist Ops & Ice Fishing Tales with Jason Quinn – Quinny on Ice

  Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Val Medved is joined by Jason Quinn of the Real ResQ Podcast for a conversation that blends outdoor adventure with critical aviation insight in “Quinny on Ice.”Recorded amidst the chill of an ice-fishing trip, this episode explores the unique intersection of cold-weather recreation and helicopter hoist maintenance. Val and Jason share stories from the field, offering both light-hearted moments and serious reflections on the responsibilities tied to hoist operations.The conversation dives deep into the mechanics of helicopter hoists, the training required for safe and efficient rescue missions, and the rigorous maintenance protocols necessary to keep life-saving equipment operational. They also explore the mental health challenges faced by those in rescue operations and the importance of communication, camaraderie, and readiness.From ice-fishing laughs to in-depth technical insights, this episode delivers a thoughtful mix of storytelling and professional reflection.Special thanks to our sponsors, Metro Aviation, Precision Aviation Group and Robinson.

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• Episode 43 - HUMS Technology: Insights from GPMS’ Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries - Part II

  Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray sits down with experts in the health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) segments. These experts are Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries from GPMS. We will explore how HUMS technology is revolutionizing the maintenance industry and is improving helicopter flight safety.This conversation was recorded shortly after Verticon, kicking off with a discussion on the value of attending industry conferences. We delve into the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference, dedicated specifically to the MRO community. This exciting event will take place from Oct. 7 to 9 at the KF Centre for Excellence in Kelowna, British Columbia, and again from Nov. 10 to 12 at the Irving Convention Center in Irving, Texas.During the conversation, Josh provides an interesting overview of his career where he spent time as a maintainer in the challenging offshore environment. He talks about the transition from offshore work to air medical services, and how his ‘do-hard-things’ mindset has shaped his experiences and opportunities within the MRO community.Josh and Ronnie highlight the latest advancements in HUMS technology, the significance of data analytics in maintenance, and the exciting potential of condition-based maintenance to transform aviation practices.Together, we’ll review real-world applications and success stories, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to maintenance decisions, and the advantages of adopting innovative technologies in aviation. Special thanks to our sponsors, SAFE Structure Designs and Airbus.

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• Episode 42 - HUMS Technology: Insights from GPMS’ Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries - Part I

  Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray sits down with experts in the health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) segments.These experts are Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries from GPMS. We will explore how HUMS technology is revolutionizing the maintenance industry and is improving helicopter flight safety.This conversation was recorded shortly after Verticon, kicking off with a discussion on the value of attending industry conferences.We delve into the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference, dedicated specifically to the MRO community. This exciting event will take place from Oct. 7 to 9 at the KF Centre for Excellence in Kelowna, British Columbia, and again from Nov. 10 to 12 at the Irving Convention Center in Irving, Texas.During the conversation, Josh provides an interesting overview of his career where he spent time as a maintainer in the challenging offshore environment.He talks about the transition from offshore work to air medical services, and how his ‘do-hard-things’ mindset has shaped his experiences and opportunities within the MRO community.Josh and Ronnie highlight the latest advancements in HUMS technology, the significance of data analytics in maintenance, and the exciting potential of condition-based maintenance to transform aviation practices.Together, we’ll review real-world applications and success stories, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to maintenance decisions, and the advantages of adopting innovative technologies in aviation.Special thanks to our sponsors, Precision Aviation Group and Airbus.

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• Vertical MRO Tech Talk By Bell - Episode 4 - The Future of Bell Tech Pubs and Digital Maintenance

  Welcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell.  In this episode, hosts Val Medved, Greg, and Skip, dive into the evolution of technical publications (tech pubs) at Bell, highlighting how the shift from traditional PDF manuals to the interactive S1000D format is transforming maintenance efficiency. Skip shares his insights on the critical role tech pubs play for operators and maintainers, shedding light on recent enhancements designed to improve accessibility and usability.The conversation also explores the latest technological advancements in helicopter maintenance, including the integration of digital tools and tablets that streamline workflows and increase safety. With a strong emphasis on user feedback, the team discusses how operators are directly shaping the future of maintenance support, ensuring solutions align with real-world needs.Listeners will also get an exclusive look at upcoming innovations like MissionLink and the development of an iOS application, designed to revolutionize how maintainers access critical information on the go. Throughout the discussion, the speakers highlight the collaborative efforts between operators and manufacturers to refine maintenance practices and keep aircraft mission-ready.Tune in to learn how Bell is embracing digital transformation to empower maintainers, improve efficiency, and enhance safety across its fleet.We want to hear from you! – [email protected] help with your Bell helicopter? – [email protected]

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• Episode 41: Inside the 2025 Vertical MRO Conferences with Leslie Ferry

  Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray sit down with Leslie Ferry to discuss the upcoming Vertical MRO conferences in Kelowna, British Columbia, and Dallas, Texas.Leslie shares insight into the significance of these conferences for helicopter maintenance professionals, highlighting their focus on education, networking, and hands-on training. The conversation explores the logistics of the events, the unique opportunities for students and apprentices to attend for free, and the vital role of community engagement in fostering the next generation of aviation professionals.From leadership development to recruitment initiatives, Leslie outlines how these gatherings bring together industry experts to share knowledge and drive innovation. The discussion also showcases the stunning venues in Kelowna and Dallas, making a compelling case for why attendees won’t want to miss these enriching experiences.Join us for an inside look at what’s ahead for the Vertical MRO conferences, and how they continue to shape the future of helicopter maintenance.Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Metro Aviation and Rotorcraft Support Inc.

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