Thomas W. Wild is a professor in the Aviation Technology Department at Purdue University. He holds or has held several FAA certifications, including Aviation Maintenance Technician, Designated Mechanic Examiner, Flight Engineer, Inspection Authorization, and Sport Pilot. Professor Wild has earned numerous awards for his contributions to education during his over 32 years at Purdue. He has taught many courses dealing with reciprocating and gas-turbine engines, propellers, propeller control systems, and large aircraft systems. Professor Wild also serves as the managing editor of the Aviation Technician Education Council Journal. He has written and published many books and articles on several aviation-related subjects and served on boards of directors of aviation professional organizations.
Michael J. Kroes is an aviation practitioner and educator with more than 35 years of experience in the field. He holds or has held several FAA certifications, including Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic, Inspection Authorization, Designated Mechanic Examiner, Designated Engineering Representative, and Commercial Pilot. Mr. Kroes has worked for some of the top aviation companies, including Raytheon and Allied Signal, and spent 25 years as a professor and department head at Purdue University. Recognized as a leading expert on FAA technician certification, he authored a comprehensive study funded by the FAA. This study was used to develop new FAA technician certification content and guidelines.
