Angel Melendez of Kalitta Air

Born and raised in New York City, Angel Melendez was always curious to learn about how things operated. He developed an early interest in all things mechanical and electrical; working at Sid’s Bicycle Shop in Manhattan, he built and maintained BMX and road-racing bicycles. After studying electronic engineering in college, Angel joined the U.S. Air Force.

Angel’s Air Force career led him to Oscoda, Michigan, and years later he moved back to the state with his family to work for Kalitta companies, including Kalitta Air, a provider certified by the Federal Aviation Administration to offer aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul services.

In February 2014, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced support from the Michigan Strategic Fund for the company’s plans to construct a new 80,000-square-foot hanger to maintain its growing fleet of aircraft with a $2 million Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The project involved a total capital investment of $9.7 million and the creation of 150 jobs, further solidifying Kalitta Air’s presence in Iosco County.

Angel currently serves as the program manager for Kalitta Air’s apprenticeship program, which helps provide the company with a skilled work force of certificated Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) technicians through formal and practical training. It is currently the only U.S. Department of Labor-approved A&P Apprenticeship in the state of Michigan.

Whether teaching the next generation of aviation mechanics or enjoying the splendors of Lake Huron, Angel is earning his wings in Michigan.

What was your experience in the U.S. Air Force?

My Air Force career began at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, Michigan, in the early 80s. I was an aircraft maintenance technician and crew chief on B-52, KC-135 and KC-10 aircraft. It was a great experience. I operated and maintained these aircraft and was given the opportunity to travel both nationally and internationally. Later in my Air Force career, I had the privilege of training new recruits in aircraft maintenance as a master Air Force occupational instructor. I transferred to Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana and continued to pursue my educational goals. I eventually received my college degrees as well as certifications in aircraft maintenance and instruction. 

Following the Air Force, what led you to Kalitta Air and your eventual role as the training manager?

I truly enjoyed living in Michigan, so when the opportunity presented itself, I moved back to Michigan with my family to work for Connie Kalitta's new repair station operating out of the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base. Since then, I’ve had a long and rewarding career working for the Kalitta companies. I started working as a certificated A&P mechanic in 1993 and I've held various positions throughout the years. I was an A&P supervisor, company representative, project manager, maintenance training manager and most recently, the program manager for the Apprenticeship Program.

What is the importance of training programs like the one Kalitta Air provides to cultivate the next generation of talent?

It's an awesome opportunity to learn a skilled trade and receive a nationally recognized certification leading to a rewarding career, all while getting paid. For me, it's a true pleasure working with the Kalitta Air team to help evolve our current and future mechanics. It's a complete experience. The Kalitta Air Apprentice Program offers one of the most effective ways to get the skills and knowledge necessary to become a capable and qualified aircraft mechanic. The process of having the apprentices train while they transition through our maintenance departments like Avionics, Hangar Maintenance, Composites Shop, Structures Maintenance, Engine Shop and Line Maintenance helps to prepare apprentices for the variety of tasks they may encounter as A&P certificated mechanics. In addition, apprentices will also experience performing tasks on general aviation aircraft, which will help with A&P endorsements and testing.

Outside of your work with Kalitta Air, what do you enjoy about living in your community and the state of Michigan?

I enjoy the four seasons, though the winters are a bit long. Another great thing about Michigan is all of the outdoor recreation– fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing, boating, jet skiing, canoeing, snowmobiling, golf courses, state parks, lakes and state forests. The cost of living is also very reasonable.

One of the benefits of living in Iosco County is the Aviation Repair Station. Where else can you have a job working in the aviation field and still enjoy living in such a rural location? Normally, jobs like this are in urban areas. Another strength is the strong community, where many folks are involved in community service. It’s about people connecting with people. I've lived here most of my life, and I plan to retire here. 

Learn how the MEDC is helping companies like Kalitta Air take flight.