Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has welcomed its new senior vice president of engineering Larry Pilkington.

The SVP engineering is responsible for setting goals and direction for the engineering team, also functioning as the department’s face to executive leadership and the aerospace industry as a whole.

Pilkington completed his undergraduate work at MIT, where he studied aerospace with a focus on structures and composite materials. He then completed his master’s degree at Virginia Tech. Pilkington brings decades of industry experience to Enstrom, including with Columbia Helicopters out of Portland, Oregon where he most recently served as chief engineer.

“A chance to lead a high-performance team and world-class organisation doesn’t come along very often,” he says. “I am thrilled for this unique chance to be involved in both the design and manufacturing of aircraft I might be able to fly someday myself.”

Pilkington will play an instrumental role in Enstrom's resurgence into both stateside and international markets, increasing availability for customers. He said he plans to integrate a semi-automated data change process and build up a programme management team, which will free up Enstrom's engineers to focus on what they’re best at: building helicopters.

Enstrom president Todd Tetzlaff says: “We believe in Larry's vision for the future of Enstrom engineering. He brings not only extensive aviation knowledge and experience, but also an infectious enthusiasm for his craft. I have no doubt he will inspire our department to reach new, incredible heights.”