Monday, October 14, 2024
MENOMINEE – Enstrom Helicopter Corporation is pleased to welcome its new Senior Vice President of Engineering, Larry Pilkington. The SVP-Eng is responsible for setting goals and direction for the Enstrom engineering team, also functioning as the department’s face to executive leadership and the aerospace industry as a whole. Pilkington started in his new position on July 15.
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, Oreg., where he most recently served as Chief Engineer.
“A chance to lead a high-performance team and world-class organization doesn’t come along very often,” said Pilkington. “I am thrilled for this unique chance to be involved in both the design and manufacturing of an 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 program management team, which will free up Enstrom’s engineers to focus on what they’re best at: building helicopters.
Enstrom President Todd Tetzlaff said, “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.”
Pilkington, his wife Heather and their dog Marty recently completed their relocation from Portland, Oreg. to Oconto, Wis. Pilkington said Enstrom’s location along the shores of Michigan made the job offer even more attractive to him.
“We love the area, particularly its proximity to the Great Lakes and scenic hiking trails,” he said. “You can’t beat the familial warmth and community of a small town. Plus, with Green Bay’s airport so close to us, we’re never more than a short plane ride away from family.”
Outside of work, Pilkington can’t help but keep his hands busy. He’s in the process of fixing up a 1967 Mustang coupe as well as building two Rutan Long-EZ home-built airplanes.
