Safran USA employee spotlight: MRO Americas special edition

April 26, 2017

This latest entry in the "Safran USA employee spotlight" series focuses on two employees, both Navy veterans, who contribute to Safran’s maintenance, repair and overhaul excellence in the United States – with its posting timed for this week’s MRO Americas trade show in Orlando, Florida.

Michael Kennedy, Site Manager – Safran Landing Systems Wheels & Brake Services

Who: Michael Kennedy is responsible for the overall management, direction, and coordination of shop operations at Safran Landing Systems’ Bethlehem facility.

When: Kennedy’s career in aviation started at the U.S. Navy where he was an EA-6B Prowler engine mechanic. Upon graduating from the Teterboro School of Aeronautics and earning an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate from the FAA, he worked in the MRO industry’s wheel and brake sector for a decade before joining Safran three years ago.

What: Kennedy’s facility takes in wheels and brakes from multiple airlines, both commercial and cargo, and performs repair and overhaul services on them.

Challenges: Kennedy sees wheels and brakes in nearly every imaginable condition. “Since we’re not a manufacturing facility, the condition of the product coming into our shop varies on any given day. The weather conditions that our wheels and brakes are exposed to every time a plane lands or takes off can affect how quickly they wear or become unserviceable.”

Keys to Success: “I am always looking to find ways to reduce process time and improve the work environment for my team. From the first day technicians are hired, I let them know we are always looking to improve our processes and no matter what area they are working in, their ideas will be heard.”

Why Safran: “It’s motivating. The Wheel and Brake division feels like a team working together to succeed, and that’s unique compared to other companies I have worked for.”

Carl Pruitt, Electronic Technician – MRO GCU, Safran Electrical & Power

Who: Carl Pruitt works in the Twinsburg GCU Test Cell where he assembles, tests, and repairs Safran Generator Control Units, or GCUs.

When: Pruitt began his electronics career in the U.S. Navy where he served for 11 years. Taking advantage of the education programs offered in the service, Pruitt received in-depth training in electronics. From vending machines to military avionics, “the majority of my career has been the repair of electronic equipment," he said. Pruitt joined Safran in mid-2013.

What: With customers ranging from major airlines and manufacturers to small operators, Pruitt’s work is in demand across the industry.

Keys to Success: “A good technician has the desire to continually learn, whether it’s learning to work within a team or on a new product.”