As an accomplished Director of Aircraft Maintenance and holding the position of Accountable manager with over 15 years of experience leading and managing aircraft maintenance teams. His expertise spans maintenance management, refurbishment programs, pre purchase and end of lease inspections in addition to extensive experience and time in aerial firefighting support, with a strong focus on regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and safety.
Rod has extensive experience managing both Fixed wing and Rotary wing aircraft maintenance programs, overseeing refurbishment programs for a range of aircraft types including King Air 200 and 350’s for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), and has been actively involved in supporting aerial firefighting aircraft operations for over 25 years. His ability to balance competing priorities, develop and implement policies and procedures, manage budgets, and work closely with regulatory authorities has ensured the highest standards in aircraft maintenance.
As the Accountable Manager for a CASA CAR 30 Maintenance Repair Organisation (MRO) Certificate, Rod has played a pivotal role in enhancing operational capabilities and compliance. His key contributions include:
- Managing special missions fixed and rotary wing aircraft maintenance programs, ensuring operational readiness and compliance.
- Overseeing refurbishment programs, ensuring aircraft meet mission-critical requirements.
- Supporting aerial firefighting aircraft operations for over 25 years, contributing to national firefighting capabilities.
- Rewriting and implementing the quality and procedures manual for CASA CAR 30 approval.
- Integrating new maintenance planning and tracking system to improve efficiency.
- Leading and implementing the transition from CASA CAR 30 approval to a Part 145 approval.
- Holding the position of Safety Manager for the Part 135 AOC, ensuring regulatory adherence and a strong safety culture.Professional Qualifications:
- Aircraft Maintenance Trade Certificate – Parafield TAFE, Adelaide, SA (1991)
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Wastewater – University of New England, Armidale, NSW (1999)
- Certificate – Part 145 Management, Aviation Australia, Brisbane, QLD (2006)
- CASA Part 66 license
- Qualified Aviation Lead Auditor (2023)
- Currently Studying Bachelor of Aviation Management, Graduating 2026