Episode 103: Why Helicopter Maintenance Is Unlike Any Other Career | MRO Conference 2025

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Plus.Recorded live during the 2025 Vertical MRO conference, this panel discussion explores what continues to attract people to the helicopter maintenance industry—and what the industry must do to support the next generation of maintainers.Featuring insights from Dale Martel of Okanagan College, Mike Broderick of HeliDoc, Tristan Beddoe of the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and Jeff Denomme of Alpine Aerotech, the conversation highlights the unique opportunities helicopter maintenance can offer, from travel and field operations to hands-on problem-solving and mission-driven work.The panel also discusses the importance of mentorship, creating welcoming workplaces, and how the industry’s approach to work-life balance has evolved over time. Throughout the discussion, a common theme emerges: attracting new talent is only part of the challenge—retaining and supporting people is just as important.For current and aspiring maintainers alike, this episode offers a grounded look at the realities, opportunities, and future of helicopter maintenance careers.Special thanks to this episode's sponsors, Metro Aviation and Airbus.Also, be sure to check out Vertical MRO's Instagram channel for even more awesome content highlighting the awesome work being done to keep the rotorcraft community flying!