Episode 68: Adam Garcia on 50 Years in Aviation, from the 160th to SAPD’s EAGLE Unit – Part II

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Jon Gray speaks with Adam Garcia, a helicopter maintenance professional whose career spans nearly five decades. 

Adam’s aviation journey began with a life-saving helicopter ride in his youth and carried him through a long and distinguished career in both military and public safety aviation.

Adam served with the prestigious 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, where he honed his technical and leadership skills in some of the most challenging environments. 

Later, he transitioned into public safety aviation, where he became a driving force in the San Antonio Police Department’s E.A.G.L.E. Helicopter Unit. 

There, he was instrumental in building and shaping the program, influencing every aspect of its development — from maintenance operations and aircraft readiness to training, team culture, and even honoring fallen officers through meaningful aircraft markings.

In this conversation, Adam reflects on the evolution of aircraft technology, the challenges of adapting to modern avionics and digital tools, and the importance of strong leadership in aviation maintenance. 

As he nears retirement, he shares valuable lessons learned, advice for future leaders, and his perspective on what it takes to keep aviation teams safe, effective, and mission-ready.

Join us for an inspiring look at nearly 50 years of service, innovation, and leadership, in helicopter maintenance.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Rotorcraft Support Inc, Robinson Helicopter and Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing.