Avionics News March 2012 - 37

What was it like to make the transition to living in Florida?

port for, whether from an OEM, or if cost seems unreasonable, for example.

I have several friends who have lived in Florida for many years, and I would visit and wonder how you ever work here. I thought I would want to be at the beach every day. You can’t beat the weather. I do enjoy going back up north for the Christmas holidays. The holidays don’t seem the same without the cold weather and four layers of clothes. I spent one Christmas here in Florida, which was odd. Having said that, I’m still glad I no longer have to shovel snow or drive in it regularly.

When you’re not working, what are you doing?

although I don’t play as often as I like. I tend to play more during the spring and summer, but I’ve only played a few times since September.

I’m either at the beach or on the golf course. I’ve been known to get in my kayak. I also enjoy skiing.

You mentioned you are a skier, how often are you able to ski?

What do you do at the beach? Do you enjoy reading?

Are you involved with any AEA activities?

Not as much as I like, because of my schedule. My travel calendar and general responsibilities at the office make it hard to commit to an organization on an ongoing basis. In the past, I have worked with the AEA, and I have known everyone for years and enjoy working with them.

Yes, I’m a reader, but my rule is that I walk the beach at least two miles before I can sit down. There is a good amount of sitting in cars and on planes, so any additional exercise helps. I’m not a good swimmer, so walking the beach for exercise and enjoyment is a good compromise. At the beach, there are a lot of kite surfers who are fun to watch. There also are a good number of paddle boarders at the Pompano Beach Pier where I walk. I would like to try that.

I’ve skied about six times since moving to Florida. The AEA provided two of those opportunities in Lake Tahoe, last year and in 2007, where several other AEA members and friends participated prior to the annual convention in Reno. It’s great to interact with industry friends outside of industry events. I’ve also had the opportunity to ski in Utah, Colorado and West Virginia.

Anything else we haven’t talked about?

Tell me about your kayak.

How’s business?

Business is steady. We’ve definitely seen an increase in activity. Of course, nobody has a crystal ball, and this period seems to be one of those weird times where people don’t know what direction the economy will take, much less the industry. Add an election year to it, and it’s anybody’s guess. We recognize technology is slowly replacing “legacy” instruments and avionics. We have ventured into other non-instrument services, such as TCAS antennas repair. That’s part of the conversation we have with customers. We ask if there is anything they’re having difficulty getting adequate sup-

I bought it when I was living in the Washington, D.C., area outside of Annapolis. I got it when LL Bean was doing a weekend outdoor promotional event near the Chesapeake Bay, where you could see and try out all the kayaks they sell. I ended up buying an ocean kayak. It is 9 feet long and weighs 36 pounds – it’s a lot of fun. I’ve also kayaked in the San Juan Islands and other places.

How’s your golf game?

Not as good as I would like. I’ve been playing on and off for about four years. I took it up, because a couple of girlfriends wanted me to play. Two of my brothers play, too, and we get together at least once a year. I took some lessons,

While I didn’t necessarily plan a career in aviation, I couldn’t be happier with the journey it’s taken me. The chance to participate in the varied industry segments, along with the knowledge, experience, opportunities and patience my peers have given me, provide a broader view of the industry and unique opportunities to go about my job. I am extremely grateful for the great friendships I’ve developed over the years. I’m looking forward to continuing this journey. Lastly, a big thank you to all the AEA members who take time to meet with us when we visit. We all are doing more with less, and we appreciate the opportunity to discuss your options and support your business. q To learn more about Triumph Instruments-Fort Lauderdale, visit www.triumphgroup.com.
avionics news

•

march

2012

http://www.triumphgroup.com

Avionics News March 2012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Avionics News March 2012