FINALIST – Business Services
Mike Manclark
CEO
Leading Edge Aviation Services
After observing the booming auto detailing industry, Mike Manclark thought if it was a great business for cars, it might be just as popular for aircraft, too.
He was right. Manclark founded Leading Edge Aviation Services Inc. in 1989 with a borrowed truck and a few mops but soon landed contracts with the military and some of California’s regional airlines.
His big break came soon after when a major carrier asked if the company could provide painting services at the same level they provided detailing.
Manclark rose to the challenge, leading his company into a new era that has caused it to be the world’s largest aircraft painting company.
With a keen eye toward customer needs, Manclark realized his company needed to offer multiple services under one roof so its customers could save both time and money.
This led him to develop a wide range of commercial services, including fuel system servicing, repair, long- and short-term aircraft storage, interior deep cleaning, and fleet assessments.
Manclark also led his company to be the first commercial/military aircraft painting company in the world to receive AS-9110 certification, significantly raising the bar for performance, quality and customer satisfaction.
This certification is not mandatory but is fast becoming a global standard of excellence.
It ensures specific requirements are met that are crucial to maintenance and repair of commercial and military aircraft.
Manclark also has a long history of supporting military men and women.
Leading Edge actively donates to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund and works with organizations such as Operation America Cares to create custom-made packages for Marines overseas.
The packages include personal letters from the staff, and Leading Edge matches every box purchased by an employee with one of its own.
HOW TO REACH: Leading Edge Aviation Services Inc., www.leadingedgecorp.com
