For over 75 years, Stevens Aerospace & Defense Systems has been a pillar of excellence in aircraft maintenance, repair, and refurbishment. While our name has changed—from Stevens Beechcraft to Stevens Aviation, and now Stevens Aerospace & Defense Systems—our commitment to precision, dedication, and a true passion for aviation has remained the same. Our story is one of innovation, perseverance, and a relentless drive to elevate the aviation industry.
The History of Stevens Aerospace
Our journey began in the 1940s when J.P. Stevens and Company, a leading textile manufacturer, assembled a team of aviation experts to service their fleet. Word spread quickly about their dedication and technical prowess, and soon, other aircraft owners sought their expertise. By 1950, Stevens Aviation was officially established, marking the beginning of a legacy that continues to this day.
From our first facility in Greenville, South Carolina, to becoming one of the premier MROs in the nation, our history is filled with milestones that define who we are today.
The People Behind the Takeoffs
Our success is built on the dedication of our people—many of whom have been with us for decades, shaping the company’s culture and reputation. Tom Foley, Owner and Director of Stevens Aerospace for more than three decades shared his remarks about Stevens turning 75:
“As we celebrate 75 years, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude. To our customers—thank you for trusting us with your aircraft and your business. Your loyalty and confidence have been the foundation of our success.
To our employees—past and present—you are the heart of Stevens Aerospace. Your skill, dedication, and passion have driven us forward, earning us a reputation for quality and reliability that stands the test of time.
It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come. Here’s to 75 years of relationships built on trust—and to the many more we’ll share ahead."
A Dedicated Team Makes the Difference
Rita Free: 42 Years of Customer Service Excellence
"I started with Stevens Aviation in 1972 as the very first person to work at the customer counter. The people made the difference—sticking together, backing each other up, and creating a family-like atmosphere. To this day, some of my best friends are the ones I made at Stevens."
Jim Williams: A Lifetime in Aviation
"I walked into Stevens Aviation after leaving the Army and was told they didn’t think I was suited for the job. I asked them to let me work for two weeks—without pay—to prove myself. That was in 1973, and 52 years later, I’m still here, having done nearly everything at Stevens."
From avionics installation to senior leadership, Jim’s journey mirrors Stevens' own growth—rooted in hard work, persistence, and an unyielding passion for aviation.
Denise DeYoung Campbell: 44 Years of Design Excellence
Denise DeYoung Campbell, Interior Design Manager at Stevens Aerospace, has been with the company for over four decades, and her story is as much about her love for aviation as it is about the evolution of Stevens’ design department.
"It actually has been most of my life I've been at Stevens. I started out here answering the switchboard, and I quickly fell in love with aviation. I had to convince the interior manager at the time that we needed a design department, and that’s how it all started," Denise shared. "I am very proud of how the department has grown from just five people to what it is today."
Denise’s passion for design is evident in her ideal workday: "My perfect day starts with a customer appointment. I love having all the materials laid out for them as soon as they arrive, creating a seamless experience. There's something special about working directly with the owner of an aircraft—their plane is like a baby to them. They want it to reflect their personality, their character, and that's exactly what we aim to do.”
Her commitment to customer experience and attention to detail have been key to Stevens Aerospace’s success in the interior design realm, elevating every aircraft she works on to a new level of sophistication and style.
Who We Are Today
Beginning as a modest group of aircraft maintenance specialists, we have grown into one of the country's most reliable MROs. As a family-owned business, we now offer comprehensive aircraft maintenance, repair, refurbishment, and upgrade services, all while preserving the personal touch that distinguished us in 1950.
As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we are proud to reflect on the stories of the incredible people who have shaped us. These personal journeys are the foundation of our success, and there are many more to share. Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the milestones, memories, and dedicated individuals who have made this legacy possible. The best is yet to come!
We are Stevens Aerospace & Defense Systems. And after 75 years, we’re still soaring.