What is your name and official title at Mint Turbines?
My name is Mike Horwath, and I am the Director of Quality and Facilities at Mint Turbines.
How did you start working in aviation?
I joined the United States Army at the age of 17 and proudly served for 26 years. Throughout my military career, I specialized as a Helicopter Repairer and Aircraft Turbine Engine Repairer while also taking on a wide range of additional roles as needed to support mission success.
What is your favorite part about working at Mint Turbines specifically?
The best part about working at Mint Turbines is the people and the satisfaction of knowing that we are the best at what we do.
As Director of Quality and Facilities at Mint Turbines, what, if any, specific quality control processes have you implemented to ensure compliance with FAA and EASA standards?
Our most significant current initiative is the development of a Safety Management System (SMS), which we’re implementing proactively in anticipation of upcoming FAA and EASA regulations. SMS will soon be a mandatory requirement for all U.S. Part 145 operations. While safety has always been a core component of our operations, this marks the first time we will be formally regulated in this area.
With the growing demand for MRO services, what considerations are taken into account when planning facility expansions or upgrades?
Any expansion within the FAA framework for a Part 145 operation requires meeting key criteria: appropriate location, sufficient space, updated manuals, proper tooling and comprehensive training. Financial planning is equally critical.
In what ways has digitalization impacted Mint Turbines’ MRO operations and customer interactions?
Digitization has had a huge impact on the aerospace MRO industry, from projecting maintenance, streamlining inventory and enhancing workflows, leading to increased efficiency, reduced downtime and improved safety.
From your perspective, what are the emerging trends in the aviation MRO industry that Mint Turbines is preparing for? Are you particularly excited about any of them in specific?
One of the biggest trends I’m seeing in the industry is the shift toward Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Electric Aerial Systems. I’m particularly excited about the unmanned side, having had the opportunity to lead a UAS unit during my military service—I’ve seen firsthand how powerful and wide-reaching these capabilities can be. As for the electric side, I remain cautious; while the technology is promising, there are still many challenges to overcome before full-scale adoption.
Reflecting on your journey to leading quality and facilities at Mint Turbines, what key experiences have shaped your view of the aviation MRO industry?
At Mint Turbines, it ultimately comes down to working alongside people who genuinely care about the customer and their needs. It’s never just about the money—lives depend on our ability to get the job done right every single time.
What is your favorite part of your role?
What I value most is the opportunity to work directly with our employees every day. I spend time on the floor, stay connected to the work being done and when something needs improvement or change, I’m in a position to make it happen.
What’s one habit or mindset shift that’s helped you be successful in this industry?
In aviation maintenance, safety isn’t optional—it’s everything. No matter the cost, the operator must take off and land safely. Unlike other industries, you can’t just pull over if something goes wrong mid-flight. A single failure has the potential to result in a catastrophic outcome, which is why precision and accountability are non-negotiable.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and getting outdoors whenever I can. I’m an avid hunter and shooter—it’s how I unwind and stay connected to the things I love.