West Star Aviation appoints Jim Rankin as Executive Chairman, Stephen Maiden as CEO, and Allen McReynolds as President and COO.
Stephen Maiden joined West Star Aviation in November 2023 after it acquired Jet East, a Gama Aviation Company, where he was President and CEO. Maiden’s nearly 30-year career in aviation began as an Electrical and Environmental Specialist on F-16s in the United States Air Force. He has held various roles, including Avionics Technician, Director of Quality and Operations, and CEO in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector for the past 18 years. His extensive experience and commitment to the industry are expected to drive continued innovation at West Star Aviation.
Rankin, Executive Chairman of the Board of West Star Aviation said, “Stephen and Allen bring a unique set of skills and experiences to their leadership roles. I’m excited to support them as they build on West Star’s long-standing guiding principle of taking care of customers and employees.” Rankin continued, “Stephen and Allen have a rich understanding of where the company is headed, and I look forward to achieving new milestones with them as they assume these leadership roles.”
Allen McReynolds was appointed COO of West Star Aviation in September 2023, shortly before the company acquired Jet East, which significantly expanded its maintenance operations. In the recent leadership restructure, McReynolds will take on increased responsibility and oversight of all business operations as President and COO. With over two decades of experience in maintenance across Business Aviation, Commercial Airlines, and Defense, McReynolds brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Prior to joining West Star, he served as a Managing Partner at SeaTec Consulting and held notable leadership positions, including Vice President of Global Aftermarket Sales for Textron Aviation and Executive Vice President of Operations for Hawker Beechcraft.
Maiden, CEO of West Star Aviation stated, “I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to lead this remarkable team and express my sincere gratitude for all the hard work and dedication that has contributed to the legacy of West Star Aviation.” He continued, “The history of 77 years is truly special. Our people, who are the heart of our organization, will remain our top priority as we strive to deliver exceptional experiences to our valued customers. By prioritizing our team, we can truly be the differentiator in providing outstanding service and achieving operational excellence.”
With over 75 years of industry experience, West Star Aviation is a leading independent provider of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services. Employing more than 3,000 professionals, West Star operates full-service facilities in East Alton, IL; Grand Junction, CO; Chattanooga, TN; Millville, NJ; Perryville, MO; and Statesville, NC. Additionally, the company maintains satellite locations in Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Chicago, and West Palm Beach. West Star offers a comprehensive range of services, including maintenance, paint, interior, and avionics, and supports the largest Aircraft On Ground (AOG) network in the country, providing prompt and reliable mobile repair services nationwide.
McReynolds COO and President stated, “I am humbled and honored to have the opportunity of leading West Star across multiple business lines. The opportunity represents a professional and personal privilege to collaborate with a team of experts. I am excited about what the future holds for West Star,”
West Star Aviation announces a new executive leadership structure, naming Jim Rankin as Executive Chairman, Stephen Maiden as CEO, and Allen McReynolds as President and COO.
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Q. – What changes have been made to West Star Aviation’s leadership?
A. – Jim Rankin is Executive Chairman, Stephen Maiden is CEO, and Allen McReynolds is President and COO.
Q. – When did Stephen Maiden join West Star Aviation?
A. – November 2023.
