Cites Experience With Aircraft Sales Startup

Sierra Industries welcomed this week 21-year aviation sales veteran David M. Welch to its growing sales and marketing staff.

"David brings over 21 years of aviation direct marketing experience to his new role at Sierra," said Skyway Group Sales and Marketing Officer Gary Buchanan. "His background in a wide variety of aircraft sales, in-depth business development and innovative approach will be a valuable asset to Sierra's team."

A graduate of Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, TX, Welch holds current instrument and multi-engine ratings. He began his career as an aviation researcher for Gantt Aviation and swiftly progressed into an Aircraft Sales Manager position with West Air. After a number of years as Regional Sales Manager for Texas Piper, Inc., he launched Integrity Aero LLC in 2000, which was sold in the summer of 2008.

Sierra notes that Welch developed and managed a start-up aircraft sales company, encompassing everything from writing the business plan to creating sales procedures. This company grew into a $10 million dollar firm within four years. Other experiences included launching an aircraft sales division for an aero-medical firm, developing an aircraft research department for an aircraft sales and service company and creating a new twin-engine aircraft market by buying and upgrading a specific used aircraft, establishing a new worldwide market in the process.

The aircraft modification company says Welch's involvement in creating startup companies and oversight responsibilities for product development has given him valuable real-world experiences and insight that will be a significant boost to Sierra's sales efforts.

"Sierra's broad product and services line and expansive growth potential make it a heaven-sent opportunity in these challenging times," Welch said. "The combination of experienced MRO services and Sierra's unique Citation conversions are an ideal mix for business jet operators looking to maximise their investment."

SkyWay Group President and Sierra CEO Mark Huffstutler added, "With many years of experience in aviation sales and marketing and a background in a variety of business processes, training and technology tools, Mr. Welch is well-qualified to help lead Sierra into new levels of success. We are very excited to have him on our sales team."

FMI: www.sijet.com