Spartan Hosts a “Day in the Life” Virtual Event Featuring Corporate Aviation Maintenance Leader Evan McKeirnan

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology successfully hosted a virtual Day in the Life event on January 29, 2026, featuring Evan McKeirnan, Maintenance Director at a private aviation company. The session offered attendees a look inside his career path and experiences in corporate aviation maintenance.

With nearly three decades of experience in corporate aviation, McKeirnan provided a behind-the-scenes perspective on managing maintenance operations for advanced business aircraft operating worldwide. The discussion covered daily responsibilities, regulatory compliance, safety management, global operations under FAA Part 91, and the long-term career growth opportunities available to aviation maintenance technicians.

McKeirnan shared his personal aviation journey, which began in high school. Over the course of his career, he earned his FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificates and an Associate degree in Aviation Maintenance. He discussed how continued professional development, including earning Inspection Authorization (IA), becoming a Private Pilot, and completing advanced Gulfstream training played a critical role in his career progression.

Throughout the event, McKeirnan highlighted key leadership roles he has held, including Crew Chief, Chief Inspector, and Director of Maintenance, overseeing fleets ranging from Gulfstream GII to G650 aircraft. He emphasized the importance of safety culture, meticulous airworthiness standards, and teamwork in maintaining operational excellence. His career accomplishments include FAA Silver and Bronze Awards, the AMT Society Magazine & Online “NextGen 40 Under 40” Award, and an NBAA Flying Safety Award recognizing more than 16 years of accident-free maintenance operations.

Currently based in Van Nuys, California, McKeirnan manages maintenance operations for Gulfstream G650 and G550 aircraft operated globally. During the session, he highlighted the responsibility and impact aviation maintenance professionals have on flight safety, reliability, and mission readiness. Beyond technical expertise, McKeirnan spoke about the value of mentorship and giving back to the aviation community. He remains actively involved in workforce development through speaking engagements and participation with the FAA Safety Team (FAAST).

“Events like Day in the Life connect students and aviation professionals directly with industry leaders” said a Spartan representative. “Evan’s experience and leadership provided attendees with an authentic and inspiring view of what a career in aviation maintenance can look like.”

To learn more about Spartan’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program, click here.

Speaker experiences, credentials, and career progression reflect individual outcomes and are not typical of new graduates.

Spartan’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program prepares students for entry-level aviation maintenance roles. Employment, certifications, and career advancement are not guaranteed and depend on individual circumstances, additional training, experience, and other external factors.