Employee Spotlight: Jay-R Rodriguez

What is your name, and what is your title at Mint Turbines?
Hi, my name is Jay-R. I am the Customer Support Manager, and I also assist with government contracts.
How long have you been at Mint Turbines?
I was the lead inspector from 2011 to 2021 and have been working in my new position since, so about 13 years.
What drew you to the field?
I had spoken to other people in the industry and those who have worked at Mint Turbines. Conversations with industry peers and long-time employees only reinforced its reputation. The fact that many had been with the company for years was a strong endorsement. Joining Mint Turbines was an easy decision—it advanced my career and allowed me to work in my hometown.
What type of education did you receive to get your foot in the door?
Just a high school diploma! When I started at Mint, they offered on-the-job training, which was great. I got to train under them to get my repairmen card, which was a great opportunity. Mint is really great about helping people build their careers.
How do you stay updated with industry trends and changes in government regulations?
My role involves daily interactions with various government personnel. Working on the government contract side, I engage with experts in different fields, gaining valuable insights. I continuously attend about every trade show in Oklahoma and attend helicopter shows. All of these experiences help me stay current and informed.


Mint Turbines awarded the 2024 Rob Ruck Scholarship to three outstanding students, each receiving $2,500. Named in honor of M International’s President and COO Robert Ruck, this scholarship celebrates the academic and extracurricular achievements of these exceptional students.
Meet Donnie Abbott, a seasoned CNC programmer, machinist and mechanical designer at Mint Turbines. Donnie’s passion for mechanical design and CNC machining spans more than 25 years, with a recent focus on automation initiatives to streamline operations. He prioritizes safety and continuous learning to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry landscape. 
Participating in aviation events is integral to Mint’s strategic approach to nurturing customer relationships and expanding networking opportunities within the dynamic landscape of the aviation industry. These events serve as crucial touchpoints for fostering meaningful connections and showcasing our latest innovations. They are also valuable tools for gathering feedback from diverse perspectives within the aviation community. These interactions reinforce existing relationships and pave the way for new collaborations and insights, driving continuous improvement and innovation within our operations.

In this interview, Luke Keigley, a T700 Field Service Engineer at Mint Turbines, shares his journey from the Air Force to his current role, providing insights into his dynamic workdays and proudest moments, including working on the B1 Bomber project. As a history buff, he reveals his favorite aircraft and discusses his hobby of building model aircraft. Luke joined the team in 2023 and has shown his skill and attention to detail throughout his time at Mint Turbines.
What a busy year 2023 was for Mint Turbines! We attended several shows, and it was great to see all our customers. We’re looking forward to 2024 and all the exciting events.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023, held from July 24-30 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, was a week filled with aviation innovation, thrilling air shows, informative displays and insightful speakers. Mint Turbines was honored to attend and support this year’s event.