Roswell-Chaves County is the last stop for countless airplanes that can no longer be used, turned into freighters, or sent to other countries.
The arid New Mexico desert is perfect for storing planes without the risk of rust developing or storms causing damage. However, the parts of these planes aren’t wasted. The FAA-licensed A&P mechanics at CAVU Aerospace dismantle each aircraft – bolt by bolt – and then repair and return the pieces.
Since 2010, CAVU has dismantled more than 500 airplanes and returned more than 1,000,000 parts to service. It keeps each part out of landfills while confirming that it still meets manufacturer guidelines and safety regulations.
“CAVU Aerospace is an extremely engaged local business partner,” says Mike Espiritu, President and CEO of the Roswell-Chaves County Economic Development Corporation (RCCEDC). “Their commitment to creating a stronger human enterprise in the field of aircraft maintenance with local students at all levels is indicative of their belief to strengthen this profession. We support CAVU wholeheartedly in these endeavors, which create numerous opportunities throughout Chaves County.”
CAVU Aerospace is also a member of the RCCEDC and an active member of the local community. It plays an essential part in the job training, economic development, and future growth of the region. Learn why the leaders at CAVU make a difference.
CAVU Aerospace Provides Quality Training Opportunities for Roswell Residents
When asked about the work that CAVU Aerospace provides, William “Bull” Johnson, General Manager, immediately talks about his team members. You can’t dismantle 500 planes without a dedicated staff who are willing to learn and grow. Johnson believes in training workers directly, which is why CAVU is willing to hire people who have no previous experience.
“We found that we were better off developing our own talent,” says Johnson, “We offer financial stability with a living wage that doesn’t require you to spend four years in a degree program.”
CAVU Aerospace recently finalized an agreement with the Roswell Jobs Corps to participate in their work-based learning program. It will offer maintenance training to residents who are looking to enter the aerospace industry. CAVU has recently signed an agreement with Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell to provide ATA 104-compliant aircraft type training to employees. CAVU also has partnerships with the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions and the Boy Scouts of America’s Aviation Exploring program. CAVU received a $250,000 grant from the state’s Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) to further invest in workforce development. These grants are renewable as the need arises.
“Our commitment to workforce development continues to be at the forefront of our operations,” says Johnson. “The average age of an aerospace maintenance technician is 58 years old. We are filling employment gaps with younger people who can sustain the industry in the future.”
CAVU Aerospace also actively hires veterans with aviation backgrounds who want to expand their skills. The company has distributed OJT Maintenance Logbooks to each of its employees to enable them to obtain their FAA Mechanic Certification, which they can take with them wherever they go in their careers.
CAVU is Increasing Its Operations in Roswell-Chaves County
CAVU is already a leader in the aerospace industry. CAVUSmartTags® offer detailed inventory tracking so every part is accounted for. The Roswell headquarters is a big maintenance hub, making CAVU stand out because of its scale alone. However, the company is actively expanding its operations to accommodate more aircraft and grow its client base.
“CAVU Aerospace Maintenance is now an EASA-certificated repair station,” says Johnson. “This means that we can perform maintenance on EASA-registered aircraft within our capabilities.”
The EASA Certification allows CAVU to attract clients beyond the United States, opening up business to 27 other countries.
CAVU has further increased its capabilities through a recent Operational Specification revision, and by renewing its 2-REG 145 Certificate with the Isle of Guernsey. In the world of aerospace, each of these certifications and agreements expands CAVU’s operations while boosting its reputation in the field.
“These achievements highlight our commitment to providing top-tier services and developing the skilled workforce needed in today’s competitive market,” says Bryan Hancock, Partner at CAVU Aerospace. “We look forward to delivering exceptional service to our clients and advancing our mission of excellence in aviation.”
Growth Sends Ripple Effects Through Roswell-Chaves County
The expansion plans are good news for Roswell-Chaves County’s future. The more services CAVU Aerospace can provide and the more aircraft it can support, the more jobs it will create.
“We hire directly from the county,” says Johnson. “We don’t hire contractors or typically bring people in from outside of 100 miles from Roswell-Chaves County. We’ve had a lot of success pulling from the local community and feel like this is the best opportunity for them.”
Not only does CAVU Aerospace provide unparalleled job training and an opportunity for workers to complete certifications that can set them up for long-term careers, but it also provides a healthy work environment. Johnson sees employees as tools to get the job done. These tools require care, investment, and support so they operate at their best.
“Nobody is going to stick around if they are treated poorly,” says Johnson. “We treat our employees well because we want them to stay with our organization.”
CAVU’s Growth Was Supported By the RCCEDC
Johnson and his team at CAVU Aerospace recognize the support the RCCEDC offers and the value that has come with becoming a member. The EDC helped CAVU apply for grants that could support their workforce development and training programs. By investing in CAVU, the RCCEDC builds a stronger workforce in the community. The RCCEDC also connected CAVU with local city council members and recommended outreach programs that could help with staffing.
“RCCEDC does a good job of representing the private sector and the opportunities companies provide to the community,” says Johnson.
When asked about the future of Roswell-Chaves County, Johnson hopes to see continued investment in the quality of life in the region. He wants Roswell to be a place where employees want to live, grow their careers, and start their families. CAVU Aerospace can provide job training, fair wages, and opportunities for growth, but the community and regional culture can provide personal fulfillment for its workers.
Learn More About Aviation in Roswell-Chaves County
CAVU Aerospace is a valued employer in Roswell-Chaves County and an important member of the RCCEDC. However, it is just one part of the aviation industry in the area. Learn about the role aerospace plays in the local business environment and how other aviation companies thrive in Roswell-Chaves County.
