Happy Mechanics, Better Results: The Jets MRO Story w/ Suresh Narayanan

The business jet maintenance industry faces a persistent challenge: getting aircraft out on time and on budget seems nearly impossible. At the core of this issue? Labor shortages, high turnover, and a lack of skilled talent. Hiring new mechanics is costly, the learning curve is steep, and customers ultimately bear the financial burden. While many have tried to solve these issues, Jets MRO took a bold, innovative approach that’s transforming the game. What if the secret to better bizjet MRO performance lies in treating mechanics with respect and offering them a compelling reason to stay? By prioritizing technician satisfaction and retention, Jets MRO has cracked the code for delivering top-tier service without the delays and cost overruns. In this episode, Jets MRO founder and CEO Suresh Narayanan reveals how his company is tackling the labor crisis head-on, building a culture that retains top talent, and reshaping the way bizjet maintenance is done. Tune in to discover: The origin story of Jets MRO. The innovative strategies they use to overcome MRO labor challenges. Why prioritizing people leads to better outcomes for customers and the industry. If you're in the aviation or MRO space, this is the must-listen episode for you. Guest Bio Suresh Narayanan is the founder and CEO of Jets MRO. He is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and visionary leader with deep roots in aviation. With a passion for aviation and an unyielding commitment to people first, Suresh continues to raise the bar in how the industry treats its people. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and an MBA from Southern Methodist University. A pilot himself, Suresh’s interest in aviation began at a young age in the repair station his parents opened after his father completed his career as a Concorde mechanic. Before incorporating Jets MRO, he worked alongside his brother Raj at Aerospace Quality Research & Development (AQRD), contributing significantly to the growth and success of the aerospace engineering, repair station, and military jet modification firm. Suresh brings invaluable experience as the former COO of JSX and boasts expertise in aviation mergers and acquisitions, steering ventures towards success. He is a proud member of the YPO-North Texas chapter and serves as a dedicated Board Member at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. With a blend of hands-on experience and commitment to driving innovation in the aviation industry, Suresh is poised to lead Jets MRO towards unparalleled heights of success. To learn more visit https://jetsmro.com/ and About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association. Check out this episode on our website , Apple Podcasts , or Spotify , and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!