Episode #71: Highlights from the First Vertical MRO Conference in Kelowna

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this special recap episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Jon Gray and Howie Murray, along with producer David Kreutzkamp, take listeners inside the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference in Kelowna, British Columbia. This first-of-its-kind gathering brought together more than 500 rotorcraft professionals to share knowledge, strengthen connections, and celebrate the passion that drives the helicopter maintenance community.

Recorded live at the event, this episode features highlights from 12 on-site mini-interviews that capture the excitement, collaboration, and inspiration of the conference. From discussions on mentorship and recruiting the next generation of AMEs, to the growing role of social media in connecting the maintenance community, the episode showcases the voices and insights that made the event unforgettable.

With 30+ FAA-approved educational sessions, hands-on workshops, and a strong focus on community, the Kelowna conference marked the beginning of a movement for the MRO industry.

If you missed Kelowna, don’t worry — the Vertical MRO Conference is heading next to Irving, Texas, November 10–12, 2025. Spots are filling fast, so REGISTER NOW and be part of the next chapter in shaping the future of rotorcraft maintenance.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Airbus, Precision Aviation Group and Metro Aviation.