US MRO specialist West Star Aviation has appointed Allen McReynolds as its chief operating officer. His primary role as COO will be to support employees by making strategic investments in people, training, tooling, technology and processes, while improving the company's safety, on-time and squawk-free delivery performance to its valued customers.

McReynolds has spent his entire career in and around aircraft maintenance covering business aviation, commercial airlines and defence. Beginning his career in the airline industry, he held roles of progressive responsibility in nearly every functional area, culminating in the position of SVP of technical operations of a large US carrier.

Previously, McReynolds held leadership roles in aftermarket and customer support with Textron Aviation and Hawker Beechcraft, having responsibility over both the global sales and service centre network. Most recently, he was the managing partner at SeaTec Consulting where he spent the last more than seven years bringing innovative process and technology solutions to clients in the airline, MRO, OEM, government and defence segments.

McReynolds holds an MBA from Robert Morris University and a bachelor's degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He is also an FAA licensed A&P mechanic and is Six Sigma certified.

“Allen will be an outstanding addition to West Star, as his extensive aviation experience will play a pivotal and key role as we continue to grow and evolve to meet our customers' maintenance needs,” says CEO Jim Rankin.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to continue my aviation career with West Star. I see it as a progressive company that clearly values the importance of its employees, customers and vendors. This includes the current and future expansions of several facilities to better accommodate its valued customers while also providing additional jobs and contributing to local communities,” adds McReynolds.

At its St Louis Regional airport facility in East Alton, Illinois Ryan Gibbs has been promoted to director of Falcon business development. Gibbs has more than 21 years of aviation experience and has been with West Star since 2004 in a variety of sales and management positions. He will be responsible for the involvement in all OEM events, having direct contact with OEM management at ALN.

“Ryan has been a valuable asset and continues to excel, gaining valuable knowledge and experience that benefits both our customers and team members,” says VP of sales Marty Rhine.

"I am sincerely enthusiastic about assuming the role of director of Falcon business development. The company's commitment to quality and integrity deeply resonates with me. Leveraging my experience and dedication, I am confident in my ability to explore new growth opportunities, forge partnerships and exceed client expectations, contributing to the company's strategic initiatives,” adds Gibbs.

Meanwhile Corey Boardman is promoted to Bombardier team lead at the Lovell Field facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Boardman will be responsible for working with lead technicians, training and mentoring efforts as well as assisting in the management of day to day operations. He has been with the company for 14 years and has held various positions including Challenger crew lead at Grand Junction Regional airport facility in Colorado before transferring to Chattanooga.

“Corey has been a vital part of the Chattanooga team from the very beginning. He sets the bar high and has a wealth of knowledge to share with his team. He will no doubt excel in his new position,” says Steve Goede, general manager, Chattanooga.

“West Star has allowed me to continue to learn and grow in the aviation industry, and I look forward to putting my skills to use in this new role,” adds Boardman.