Pictured left to right: Ron Draper, Thomas Tipton, Terry Runberg, Dan Moore, Paul Holtz, Betty Jo Evans & Maggie Topping.
Textron Aviation recently honored employees who reached 40 years with the company, recognizing their steadfast commitment to inspiring the future of flight. Together, the honorees represent over 350 years of combined service and have played a key role in advancing the company’s mission to design and deliver the best aviation experience for customers.
Surrounded by friends, family and company leaders, each employee received an award commemorating the milestone. Ron Draper, president and CEO, and Maggie Topping, senior vice president of Human Resources and Communications, reflected on memorable moments in company history since 1985.
The celebration also offered a chance for the honorees to reflect on the moments that shaped their careers:
Betty Jo Evans, Senior Contracts Manager: “Attending AQM Target Missile program management reviews in Barking Sands, Hawaii was a highlight of my career.”
Paul Holtz, A&P Mechanic Lead: “Meeting two of my best friends on my first day at Cessna is a memory I’ll always cherish.”
Dan Moore, Finance Business Partner: “Late nights in B-77 working on Joint Primary Aircraft Training System proposals with good friends stand out as some of my favorite times.”
Thomas Tipton, Manufacturing Engineer: “Working with different people and building relationships as they progressed in their careers has been incredibly rewarding.”
James Rix, Engineer Specialist Sr.: “The most memorable moment would be being in David Riemer’s office when he received a call from the USAF informing us that we won the JPATS contract. As part of the JPATS team, I developed the Electronic Instrument Displays for Beechcraft's entry in the competition.”
Jeffrey Schaeding, Manager, Inside Sales. “One of the most meaningful stories of my career is my 40-year journey in manufacturing. After culinary arts school, I made a pivotal transition into the industry, starting in 1985 at Saginaw Tool & Die, producing prototype automotive components for GM. By 1987, we expanded into aerospace, giving me the chance to work on complex, high-precision parts. After becoming Mistequay Group Ltd., I held roles from machinist to Quality Control Manager and sales — building a broad understanding of operations. When Mistequay was acquired by Textron, it marked an exciting new chapter, both professionally rewarding and a privilege to be part of.
We also honor the following employees for their 40 years of service, though they were unable to attend the event:
Start your journey with a team that has defined excellence for decades. Exploring current job openings at txtav.com/careers or visit the Career & Learning Center at Suite 400, 293 S. Greenwich Rd, Wichita, Kansas 67206.