The first thing to notice about Pete Hammond is his soft-spoken demeanor and firm handshake–the latter, a possible tell of time spent in the military. Hammond, a United States Air Force veteran, was inspired to join the military by his family’s history of service. His grandfather served in the army, his two brothers, the navy, and his father served during WWII as a Marine. His father, an officer, arrived in Guadalcanal a Major and returned a Lieutenant Colonel. 

For brothers Manny and Jose Encinas, working at MHIRJ is more than just building careers—it’s about strengthening the bond they’ve had since childhood. Raised in Tucson, Arizona, they honed their mechanical skills on cars in their grandfather’s garage and have now taken that expertise to aircraft at MHIRJ. Watch their story here:

A testament to perseverance, hard work, and a passion for aviation. 

Aviation has always been in Bryan’s blood. His grandmother worked on the F-117 aircraft, and his father also had an aviation background. Growing up in this aviation-bound world, it seemed only natural for Bryan to continue the legacy. 

A journey marked by growth and evolution. 

Jacqlynn’s career at MHIRJ began nearly a decade ago. With a background in finance, she was eager to find a role that fit her evolving career interests. "When I started, it was more of an accounting role," she recalls. "But the longer I stayed, the more I got involved in project work and overseeing different functions."

On a Quest for Continuous Improvement

The new MHIRJ Academy is now in session, teaching the next generation of skilled aviation technicians. At the helm are seasoned experts who are bringing their wealth of knowledge to the classroom and the hangar as instructors. Today, we’re introducing you to Kenny Sinclair.