US MRO specialist West Star Aviation has welcomed Vince Ruscitti as its new programme manager for government affairs and promoted Sean McCracken to the position of avionics team lead at its Grand Junction Regional airport facility in Colorado.

Ruscitti will be responsible for building and leading the government projects aircraft maintenance programme at the Cahokia, Illinois hangar and will serve as the primary point-of-contact to manage all aspects of aircraft maintenance, repair and delivery.

He has over 38 years of experience in the aviation industry plus a BS degree in business administration from Almeda College, an AA degree in aviation technology from the University of Phoenix and a Master Certificate in organisational leadership and business analysis as well as a Six Sigma Green Belt from Villanova University. Ruscitti also has active US Government Secret Clearance.

“Vince has extensive expertise in handling US and foreign government contracts, including the oversight of security, project execution, customer interaction and special mission aircraft, which will benefit West Star's valued customers,” says general manager Brian Bauwens.

“I appreciate the opportunity to continue my career with West Star and bring my expertise to the team and customers of West Star,” says Ruscitti.

McCracken started at West Star in 2012 in the paint department, moving into the avionics department approximately four years ago. He can also be found working at the Air National Guard as a weapons loader on F16s in his spare time.

“Sean has excelled in all his roles, and we are confident he will continue to bring his extensive expertise to our valued customers,” says general manager Scott Sweeney.

“I am excited for the new challenge and the opportunity West Star has provided me to work with such an experienced team and continue my aviation career while offering excellent service to our customers,” adds McCracken.