If you’ve spent any time around Stevens Aerospace’s GYH location, there’s a good chance you’ve...
Meet Philip Coleman, an Aircraft Technician at Stevens Aerospace with over ten years of experience. Philip's journey with the company has been a blend of hands-on technical skill, personal connections with customers, and an unwavering commitment to quality and reliability.
Philip’s story at Stevens Aerospace begins with a long-standing desire to join the team. After completing aircraft maintenance school, he worked at a smaller company, gaining valuable experience. It wasn’t until years later that the opportunity to join Stevens finally came up. Philip recalls, “I tried to get in here for eight years. I met an avionics manager who gave me a tour of the Greenville facility, and when the opportunity opened up, I jumped at it. It's been a great ride ever since.” 
What has kept Philip at Stevens for over a decade? He shares, “In many of the companies I've worked for in the past, turnover was high, and crews constantly changed. At Stevens, though, people have been here for 20, 30 years. We have a lot of seasoned experience. It's better to ask someone who's done the job before than to rely solely on technical support. That knowledge makes a huge difference, not just for us, but for the customers too.”
With a seasoned team that has worked through the ups and downs of the company, Philip believes the long tenure of the crew plays a crucial role in the customer experience. “When you have a crew that's been here for ten, twenty years, the customers get to know their mechanics well. They trust us. It makes the experience smoother, and we always try to do what's best for them.”
This strong sense of trust and reliability stems from the shared values of the team. Philip continues, “The people here care about their job, the customer, and the quality of work. We all have similar beliefs and ways of doing things. It’s a great place to work, and that’s a big part of what makes Stevens special.”
One thing that stands out in Philip’s role is the variety of work he does. Unlike some who specialize in one area, Philip is involved in all aspects of aircraft maintenance. “I do a little bit of everything. Whether it's avionics, structure repairs, inspections, or engine work, no day is the same. I really enjoy the variety.” He’s able to apply his experience from different areas of aircraft maintenance, which allows him to approach problems with a well-rounded perspective.
But it’s not just about the work – it’s about the people. Philip has built strong relationships with both his teammates and customers. He explains, “Some of us even hang out outside of work. My family and I spend time with the families of the people I work with. It’s a close-knit group, and that’s what makes working here so special. We care about each other and about the work we do.”
With a career that spans over 20 years in aviation, Philip reflects on what first inspired him to get into the field. “My great-grandfather was an aircraft mechanic during World War I, and my family has always been involved in aviation in some way. It’s in my blood, and it’s something I’ve always loved.”
As for why customers choose Stevens, Philip believes it’s the personal touch that sets the company apart. “When you build long-term relationships with customers, they trust you. We’ve worked on the same aircraft for decades, and they know they’re getting top-notch service. We’re not just fixing planes; we’re making sure that every detail is right. That’s why they keep coming back.” 
Philip’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, combined with the strong relationships he’s built over the years, is a testament to the values that Stevens Aerospace upholds. Whether it’s a routine inspection or a major repair, Philip and his team go above and beyond to ensure that every customer walks away satisfied.
In the end, it’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about doing it right. As Philip says, “If you can do a little extra, go above and beyond what the customer expects, that’s what makes us stand out. It’s all about precision, attention to detail, and delivering a great product.”
Thank you, Philip, for your years of dedication, expertise, and the relationships you’ve built with you. Your hard work continues to make a lasting impact at Stevens Aerospace.
📸Philip after completing his pilot license
📸 Powerplant class at A&P school. He and his classmates were preparing to run a World War 2 ear R985 radical engine mounted on a run stand. Left, yellow earmuffs.
Hear it from Philip:
