30-Year Industry Veteran Tapped As Vice President Of Aircraft Manufacturing And MRO

David Ford (pictured) has been named vice president of aircraft manufacturing and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) at Erickson Air-Crane (EAC). Based at Erickson Air-Crane Manufacturing and MRO facilities in Central Point, OR, Ford's responsibilities include leading the team that builds, modifies and maintains the Erickson S-64 helicopter, integrating EAC's principles of safety, integrity, quality and commitment.

Ford has more than 30 years of leadership experience in the aerospace industry. He most recently served as general manager of Sikorsky Global Helicopter, with previous posts as president and chief operating officer of Keystone Helicopter Corporation, engineering director and general manager at B/E Aerospace, director at Textron Lycoming Turbine Engine Division, and various management positions at Bell Helicopter.

"The addition of David Ford to our executive team is another element in the continuing implementation of our long-term strategy.  Mr. Ford's three decades of leadership with multiple helicopter manufacturers enhances EAC's ability to deliver innovative and versatile aircraft to our customers," said Udo Rieder, president and chief executive officer of Erickson Air-Crane.  "We anticipate with David Ford and our outstanding team, EAC will achieve improved business and production goals."

Sikorsky Global Helicopter acquired Keystone in 2006, with Ford implementing the transition and being named as general manager of manufacturing and MRO operations. In four years, Ford played a key role in building substantial growth in the operations revenue as well as adding close to 700 new jobs. He led the company to achieve its FAA production certificate and implemented its continuous improvement program, Achieving Competitive Excellence. He also built the first three prototypes of Sikorsky's newest commercial product, the S-76D, and a world class, state-of -the art customer delivery center. In addition, he led the successful transition of Sikorsky's commercial manufacturing activity from Stamford, CT, to Coatesville, PA.

During his tenure at Keystone Helicopter, Ford is credited with growing the company with more than 500 new jobs, an effort that was recognized by Governor Ed Rendell and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by legislative commendation. Further, Keystone and Ford's leadership to enhance global competiveness earned the company the Chester County Economic Development Committee's Global Business Award.

Ford earned his bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech. Before earning a master's degree in industrial administration from Purdue University, he served five years in the United States Air Force as an air traffic controller.  Ford also completed a series of executive leadership training courses at the University of Virginia's Darden Business School.

Currently, Ford serves on the board of directors for the American Helicopter Museum in West Chester, PA, as well as the Governor's Aviation Advisory Committee for the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. On behalf of Helicopter Association International, Ford held positions as board liaison and chairman of the Manufacturer's Committee.

FMI: www.ericksonaircrane.com/