AeroATeam

Jim Buckalew founded the Aerospace (Aero) ATeam by bringing together specialized aerospace professionals who have a passion for advanced technology. Jim has over 30 years of experience in aircraft maintenance and aerospace solutions.

Jim founded the MRO ATeam vertical to focus on advanced technology for the MRO sector of airline technical operations. The AeroATeam network has now expanded to airline flight operations, commercial space development, and advanced technology offerings.

Jim’s technical abilities are enhanced by his success in building and maintaining highly productive teams. The AeroATeam business model was built with the client in mind to offer very competitive aerospace solutions.

ATeam’s network of top talent stays engaged with full-time and board member roles in large companies, contract engagements, academic research, and solutions through industry-leading working groups.

Reach out to any one of the AeroATeam partners and you will have full access to an experienced team ready to improve your aerospace business through technology.

Steve Bogie is a distinguished aviation professional with an impressive 35-year career, demonstrating expertise across various sectors, including autonomous flight operations, regional carriers, and major international airlines. As a founding Partner of AeroATeam, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Additionally, he serves as an Executive Advisor to multiple aviation-related organizations, offering valuable insights, and acts as an Executive Consultant for venture capital firms specializing in aviation, aiding in the identification and support of innovative projects.

Steve’s comprehensive background covers diverse aspects of aviation, ranging from airline flight operations to aircraft maintenance, crew management, operations control, airport operations, flight safety, and in-flight service. Notably, his leadership was evident during his tenure as the Managing Director of IT at Air Canada, where he oversaw technology, strategic planning, and the development of solutions supporting various airline functions. Before co-founding AeroATeam, Steve held key senior positions in Corporate Strategy, Airline Operations, Customer Service, and Community Relations, including serving as the Vice President of Flight Operations and Technology at Drone Delivery Canada, highlighting his expertise in emerging aviation technologies. With his strategic vision and commitment to innovation, Steve Bogie continues to play a pivotal role in propelling the aviation industry forward.

With over 35 years of dedicated experience in education, Diane Buckalew has transitioned seamlessly into an administrative role, leveraging her wealth of expertise to contribute significantly to organizational success. As a seasoned educator, Diane possesses a deep understanding of effective communication, mentorship, and skill development. She is adept at creating a comprehensive onboarding program that facilitates a smooth integration process for new team members, ensuring they feel supported and equipped to excel in their roles.

In addition to recruiting and onboarding, she brings organizational prowess to the forefront by actively participating in day-to-day operations and event coordination. She plays a key role in utilizing her organizational skills to streamline contractor operations. Whether orchestrating team-building events, fostering a positive work culture, or ensuring the seamless functioning of daily operations, Diane has become an invaluable asset to the AeroATeam as a key contributor to the success and growth of the organization.

With four decades of expertise in both fixed and rotary wing operations, Guy has built a distinguished career across airlines, MROs, and OEMs. His leadership spans critical areas, including engineering, quality assurance, planning, line and base maintenance, and component/engine shop management. Throughout his career, Guy has successfully overseen the certification of new airlines, introduced new fleets, and managed complex airline integration and joint venture projects, achieving measurable improvements in quality and cost efficiency.

Guy’s strategic insight extends to financial modeling, contract negotiation, and providing key advisory services on airframe and engine leases. His work has taken him across North, Central, and South America, Africa, and China, where his cultural sensitivity and team leadership have been pivotal in reaching project goals.

Guy holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia, an MBA from Simon Fraser University, and has completed advanced executive training at GE Crotonville and Boeing’s Leadership Center.

Jeff is an accomplished aviation executive with over 25 years of C-suite and Board-level experience. Throughout his distinguished 45-year career, Jeff has held key leadership positions, including Chief Executive Officer at Xwing Air, President at AAR Airlift Group, Chief Operating Officer at North American Airlines, Chief Operating Officer at TransMeridian Airlines, V.P. & General Manager at Northwest Airlink (Express Airlines I & Mesaba Aviation), and President at ATA Connection (Chicago Express Airlines).

With a track record of leading organizations with annual revenues exceeding $750 million and securing commercial and government contracts worth up to $5 billion, Jeff has driven major successes in the aviation industry. His accomplishments include providing full-service charter services for two U.S. presidential campaigns and winning major international contracts with the U.S. Department of State, Department of Defense, and U.K. Ministry of Defense.

Jeff’s expertise spans a wide range of aviation sectors, from start-up ventures to scheduled passenger services and on-demand passenger and cargo operations for government and commercial customers. Most recently, he has focused on the future of air transportation, embracing aerospace technology innovation to advance aircraft systems.

His ability to navigate the challenges of the aviation industry while leading high-performing organizations in both commercial and government sectors underscores Jeff’s qualifications as a seasoned leader.

Art Anderson has over 28 years of Aviation Leadership experience, with a focus on heavy aircraft maintenance. He specializes in leadership, strategic planning, and execution of lean initiatives to improve safety, cost, and schedule. Art has held executive-level positions and has a successful record of leading and managing large change initiatives. He has a diverse skill set encompassing airline maintenance, business process engineering, and MRO systems, and has played a vital role in implementing revolutionary MRO systems at numerous hangar facilities, effectively streamlining operations. He excels in his role as a process-driven leader and consistently delivers exceptional results. Art’s training skills enable him to cultivate high-performing teams and foster growth. He is known for developing precise procedures and optimizing workflows through the strategic integration of technology. Art’s visionary approach and unwavering commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset to any organization seeking to enhance their aerospace technical operations.

As Director of the AeroATeam PMO, Valerie Deschamps brings over three decades of invaluable expertise in the Information Technology and Airline Industry, combining both management and technical proficiencies. Graduating with Project Management credentials from the esteemed University of Toronto, she has steered countless IT programs and projects, alongside managing a multitude of ventures within the Aviation domain for the past five years.

Since 1995, Valerie has been at the forefront of senior project management, boasting extensive experience handling large-scale IT and Aviation projects and programs. Certified in ITIL V3 Foundations, she adeptly implements frameworks like ITIL and COBIT, alongside other leading IT practices, enriching her repertoire in IT service management and governance.

Valerie’s forte lies in process improvement and management consulting, where her prowess in defining, analyzing, and implementing robust IT solutions has propelled organizations towards significant business value. Recognized for her exceptional leadership, people management, and communication skills, Valerie is renowned as an exemplary mentor and coach, fostering motivation and trust within her teams.

Currently serving as a pivotal member of the AeroATeam, Valerie leads as a Project Manager, orchestrating the establishment of PMOs and spearheading compelling projects. Her specialties encompass a wide array, including project and portfolio management, hangar construction, mergers and acquisitions, IT strategy, governance, service management, operational process maturity, and IT outsourcing and organization design.

Valerie Deschamps stands as a beacon of excellence in the IT and Aviation sectors, dedicated to crafting and delivering pragmatic solutions that drive success.

Barry Humby, currently serving as the Director of Technology for the AeroATeam, boasts over 35 years of profound experience in IT Management and transformation. Renowned for his contribution-oriented approach and strategic acumen, Barry is a distinguished business executive excelling in dynamic and complex operational environments.

Serving as former CIO, Barry has demonstrated his expertise across a spectrum of domains including IT strategy formulation and execution, infrastructure management and security, data networks, operating systems, application management, software development, wireless technologies, and telecommunications.

An unwavering optimist and visionary leader, Barry’s leadership style is characterized by fostering collaborative communication and understanding customers’ needs deeply. He is adept at driving teams towards delivering long-term solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Barry is a passionate advocate for nurturing talent and building cohesive teams. His commitment to mentoring future industry leaders underscores his belief in the power of people and their potential to drive transformative change within organizations.

Bradley Thomason is a seasoned Product Management Leader with 16 years of experience at the forefront of technology, customer-centric innovation, and product development. His diverse professional journey includes roles as a founder, consultant, individual contributor, and director of product management. his diverse background has honed his expertise in crafting strategic, scalable solutions that balance technological excellence with user-centered design.  

Over the past six years, Bradley has worked extensively with data scientists and engineers to leverage machine learning, natural language processing, and the latest advancements in generative AI. His efforts have focused on driving automation, enhancing product intelligence, and transforming productivity, customer onboarding, and data integration processes. 

Throughout his career, he has championed a foundational approach to product development, emphasizing the importance of scalable solutions, exceptional user experiences, and a relentless commitment to minimizing technical debt. He believes in the power of automation to unlock human potential and leads with a people-first philosophy, recognizing that happy, motivated teams yield unparalleled returns. 

Beyond his professional pursuits, Bradley is an author, publishing Potentialized in 2016 on Amazon.com. He resides in Santa Barbara, California, where he indulges his passions for equestrian sports, nature, and animal care. Bradley is deeply passionate about the intersection of creativity and technology, striving to build meaningful products and foster lasting relationships. 

Rodney Brown is a dynamic and approachable IT executive who serves as the IT Manager for AeroATeam. With a passion for helping organizations leverage technology to maximize quality, speed, and operational effectiveness, Rodney has become a trusted leader in the IT landscape. 

Recognized throughout his career for a comprehensive understanding of information systems and concepts, Rodney pairs his technical expertise with exceptional strengths in collaboration, strategic planning, and stakeholder management. He excels at bridging the gap between technology and business needs, often serving on senior leadership teams to drive innovation and growth. 

Rodney’s ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences has made him an invaluable resource for fostering alignment and ensuring successful project outcomes. His leadership style prioritizes communication, teamwork, and empowering his team to achieve remarkable results. 

Terri Rimmer brings over 20 years of aviation experience, with a focus on management and supervisory roles. As a key member of AeroATeam, she specializes in training and implementing Trax solutions, including eMRO and eMobility, ensuring seamless transitions for clients. 

With expertise in maintenance planning systems and technical records management, Terri consistently drives cost reductions, optimized maintenance schedules, and regulatory compliance. Throughout her career, Terri has been instrumental in the success of numerous high-profile projects. She served as the program manager for Northern Air Cargo’s Trax implementation and delivered impactful training at Canadian North, guiding departments through upgrades from start to finish. As a key contributor to Sky Regional’s Maintenance team, she played a vital role in achieving industry-leading reliability and utilization for the Embraer E175 fleet.  

Terri’s focus on collaboration and operational excellence underscores her commitment to innovation and efficiency in aviation. Her dedication and results-driven approach make her a cornerstone of AeroATeam’s mission to deliver world-class solutions. 

Jenine Ross is a highly skilled and results-driven Project Manager with over six years of experience leading complex technology initiatives within the aviation sector. With a unique blend of project management and business analysis expertise, Jenine has established herself as a trusted leader in delivering innovative solutions that drive operational efficiency and align with strategic business goals. 

Known for her exceptional strategic planning and problem-solving abilities, Jenine excels in managing project timelines, resources, cross-functional teams, and budgets. Her ability to identify business requirements and optimize processes has led to the successful execution of initiatives that enhance organizational performance and value. 

Jenine’s proven track record spans multiple projects across diverse divisions, where she thrives in challenging environments by swiftly identifying issues, reassessing priorities, and steering projects back on course. Her leadership, adaptability, and commitment to excellence ensure successful outcomes, even in the most dynamic and fast-paced settings. 

Christine Shiomi is a results-oriented project manager renowned for her passion in translating visionary ideas into tangible solutions. With a robust background in technology and a commendable history of steering intricate projects to success, Christine thrives in fast-paced environments where strategic foresight and effective implementation are crucial.

Her trajectory in the technology industry is characterized by an unwavering commitment to excellence, a comprehensive understanding of diverse technologies, and a talent for leading cross-functional teams. Christine takes pride in her ability to adapt to evolving industry landscapes, empowering organizations to maintain their competitive edge and drive innovation.

In addition to her technical prowess, Christine possesses a strong strategic mindset, guiding organizations in setting clear technology objectives, devising comprehensive roadmaps, and spearheading digital transformation initiatives. She values collaboration, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive personally and professionally.

Mark Thoreson is a seasoned aviation professional with over 40 years of experience in technical operations, quality, and safety. Beginning his career in the U.S. Navy, Mark developed a strong foundation in aircraft maintenance and operational discipline, which he carried into the private sector at United Airlines. There, he advanced from Aircraft Maintenance Technician to leadership roles in Line Maintenance and Quality Assurance, gaining expertise in Maintenance and Engineering Programs, MRO Compliance, Aircraft Records, Inspection, and Materials Management. 

Mark is a dedicated Technical Operations Specialist with extensive management experience and strong leadership, vision, and direction in Maintenance and Engineering Technical Operations Programs, MRO Compliance and Performance, Aircraft Configuration Control, Aircraft and Engine Records, Inspection and Quality Assurance, Materials Management, Hazardous Material, Ground Safety, and Aircraft Fuel. Responsible for ensuring operating efficiencies, safety and compliance with Federal Regulations, Industry Standards, and organizational requirements. 

Renowned for his focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence, Mark has conducted numerous audits and investigations, including accident and aircraft recovery operations. His leadership ensures operating efficiencies and adherence to Federal Regulations, Industry Standards, and organizational requirements, positioning him as a trusted authority in the field. 

Angelo Cicero is a seasoned aviation professional with a rich history of innovation and leadership in the airline industry. Most recently, Angelo retired as founding Partner of the AeroATeam, where he played a pivotal role in leading MRO systems implementation and business process integration.

Throughout his illustrious career, Angelo has held various leadership positions at renowned airlines, including Ward Air, Canadian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and AirTran Airways. Starting as a front line mechanic, Angelo steadily rose through the ranks to senior airline leadership, demonstrating his exceptional dedication and expertise in technical operations.

Angelo’s passion for innovation and technology has been a driving force in his career. He has been at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge aviation technologies, pioneering advancements in technical operations. Notably, Angelo played a significant role in advancing the original USAir products and services solution, Maxi-Merlin, and has amassed significant experience with modern advanced systems such as Trax eMRO.

Throughout his career, Angelo Cicero has been recognized as a visionary leader and a trailblazer in the aviation industry, leaving an indelible mark on MRO systems implementation and business process integration. His contributions have helped shape the landscape of aviation technology, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations in the industry.

As an Advisor and former Partner at AeroATeam, Olivia DiGiovanni has played a pivotal role in guiding the company towards achieving its goals and objectives. Her profound understanding of the aviation sector coupled with her strategic acumen has been instrumental in shaping AeroATeam’s trajectory in the competitive market landscape.

Olivia is an experienced aviation professional with extensive expertise in corporate human resources, administration, marketing, business development, and management consulting. With a career spanning numerous years, Olivia’s strategic insights and leadership have significantly contributed to the growth and success of various aviation ventures.

Olivia holds several certifications, including the prestigious Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) designation, which underscores her commitment to excellence in HR management on a global scale. Her academic credentials include an MBA from Texas Woman’s University, where she honed her skills in business administration, management, and strategic leadership. Additionally, Olivia earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with specializations in Management, Human Resources, and Marketing, laying a strong foundation for her multifaceted career in the aviation industry.

Throughout her career, Olivia has demonstrated a relentless dedication to driving organizational success through innovative HR practices, strategic marketing initiatives, and effective business development strategies. Her ability to navigate complex challenges and leverage opportunities has earned her recognition as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the aviation community.

With a passion for continuous learning and professional development, Olivia remains at the forefront of industry trends and best practices, ensuring that she delivers unparalleled value to her clients and partners. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with her extensive experience and expertise, positions her as a valuable asset to any organization seeking to thrive in the dynamic aviation landscape.

As an executive advisor to the AeroATeam, Oscar Garcia brings a wealth of airline expertise to the AeroATeam as a retired 777 captain and safety officer. With a distinguished career spanning decades in the aviation industry, Oscar’s insights and leadership are invaluable assets to the team.

In addition to his extensive aviation background, Oscar is the founding Partner, Chairman, and CEO of InterFlight Global Corporation (IFG), established in 1992. Under his guidance, IFG has cultivated a network of world-class industry leaders, delivering unparalleled senior-level consultancy, advisory services, and project design across various domains including strategy, enterprise development, finance, sales, and operations.

Recognized as a thought leader in the aerospace sector, Oscar is a sought-after commentator, presenter, and panelist for mainstream audiovisual media and press. He regularly contributes his expertise to specialized news outlets covering aerospace and aeronautics on a global scale. Oscar’s reputation as a captivating speaker has led to numerous invitations to headline public events, serve as a conference chairman, and deliver keynote addresses at prestigious aviation and aerospace gatherings worldwide.

With his depth of experience and commitment to excellence, Oscar Garcia continues to shape the future of aviation through his multifaceted contributions to both industry-leading organizations and global media platforms.

Frank Milillo is a commercial aviation maintenance veteran who has over 30 years of experience in airline technical operations leadership, strategy, process efficiency, and cost reduction. He possesses a demonstrated record of realized organizational improvements by taking a pragmatic approach to complex issues and driving operational excellence via gap analysis, optimizing processes, modernizing business practices, and cultivating a continuous improvement culture. His primary areas of concentration are from a safety, quality, schedule, and cost perspective with focus on collaboration and communication. Frank has held senior level leadership positions with American Airlines, US Airways, Western Global Airlines and JSX that included overall responsibility of large maintenance organizations in multiple geographical locations. Frank holds an undergraduate degree from Thomas Edison State University and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in Organizational Excellence. He is a U.S. Air Force veteran and holds an FAA Airframe and Powerplant license.

Daniel E. Owens is a Technology Consultant and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in IT systems and support with specific skills in aviation technical support. Daniel takes pride in partnering with each client to understand specific goals, objectives, and audiences. He conducts a comprehensive analysis of current processes and systems and targets customers and competitive landscapes. After gathering requirements, he works closely with company executives and senior leadership to create actionable strategies and successfully roll out initiatives. Daniel works closely with each client to establish future-facing insights, implications, and recommendations. His innovative approach allows him to deliver tailored advice, make impactful recommendations, and identify and solve critical issues businesses face.

Yvan Dufort has a wealth of experience and expertise in maintenance and engineering, particularly in the utilization of the TRAX Maintenance IT system. With over three decades of experience at Air Canada, Yvan has a comprehensive understanding of various modules within TRAX, including Settings, Engineering, Requisitions, Technical Records, and Inventory. He is also well-versed in aircraft OEM documentation, such as AMM, IPC, CMM, SB, WDM, AOLS, My Boeing Fleet, and Bombardier Documentation System. Yvan is proficient in SQL and scripting programming, as well as MS Access and AutoCAD.

Throughout his career at Air Canada, Yvan held various roles, including Technical Writer, Analyst in Maintenance and Engineering, Trainer in Technical Operations, Aircraft Maintenance Manager, and Materials Management. He has played a crucial role in the successful introduction of several aircraft fleets, such as B777, B787, B737, Embraer, and multiple Airbus and B767 leased aircraft. Yvan has been responsible for aircraft configuration, system data, and setup to ensure smooth operations.

As a member of the Trax implementation team, Yvan oversees meticulous data migration from legacy systems to TRAX, conducting thorough data analysis and validation. He also provides on-site support at Line Maintenance operations across North America.

Clay is new to the aviation industry, working with AeroATeam as a Technology and Business Services Consultant. Before his current role, he was employed by a third-party freight forwarder as a Warehouse Manager specializing in efficiency systems, customized/specialty packaging, and fulfillment of individual client needs. After several years there, he made the decision to return to school to earn his degree in Cybersecurity from Kennesaw State University, which he completed in the spring of 2022. Clay is a lifelong learner who delves into anything and everything that sparks his interest. He thrives on improving systems for cost savings, efficiency, and functionality in both his personal and professional life.

Alex Chen joined the AeroATeam as an intern while pursuing his MBA in Aviation Management degree at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL. He had previously graduated with his Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle with a Multi-Engine and Instrument Rated Commerical Pilot License. Alex also has a minor in air traffic management and is pursuing his Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate. With Alex’s diverse knowledge in aviation, he contributes to both airline flight and maintenance operations projects. As a business analyst with the AeroATeam, Alex is always eager to use his advanced data analytics skills to support client solutions.