HAI has announced this year's Helicopter Maintenance Award recipient -- Mr. Phillip G. DiFiore, President of Rotorcraft Support Inc., Van Nuys, California.

DiFiore began his career in 1979 as an A&P graduate from North Valley Occupational Center. His professional journey has taken him from helicopter technician to owner, president, and director of maintenance for Rotorcraft Support, Inc., one of the finest helicopter maintenance organizations in the United States.  This company serves operators from law enforcement, corporate, utility, and the entertainment industry. A hands-on administrator, DiFiore holds and actively maintains his A&P/Inspection Authorization certification. He is a Designated Airworthiness Representative, and holds numerous FAA certifications. At Rotorcraft Support, Inc., DiFiore manages and actively organizes all facility operations including scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, inspections, evaluations, modifications, avionics shop, and component overhaul shop. His facility works on a number of aircraft models including Aerospatiale, Eurocopter, Agusta, Bell, Robinson, Sikorsky, Schweizer, and MD models.

Recently DiFiore purchased a successful 50-year-old helicopter service company, Redding Air Service. DiFiore believes in training and hires A&P students who are currently enrolled in local A&P schools. He has employed and trained more than 100 apprentice technicians and currently employs 60 technicians and administrative personnel. Because of his uncompromising standards on helicopter maintenance, and service, hundreds of pilots have flown thousands of trouble-free flight hours. Eight years ago he produced and continues to support an FAA approved, IA renewal seminar.

Each October, DiFiore and Rotorcraft Support, Inc. host 100 IA technicians who are educated by the best of the best from within the rotorcraft industry. DiFiore's work is a reflection of his personal commitment to quality, integrity and service. If you asked DiFiore what he is most proud of, he will tell you that it is the hundreds of pilots who have flown thousands of hours and returned home safe, without a reported maintenance-caused incident. His personal and professional accomplishments make him deserving of the 2008 Helicopter Maintenance Award.

All winners will be recognized at HELI-EXPO 2008's annual "Salute to Excellence" Awards Banquet on February 25, 2008 in Houston Texas. 

FMI: www.rotor.com, www.expo.com