With more than 1,600 employees across its Greensboro location and airframe operations in Lake City, Florida, HAECO maintains more than 300 aircraft per year. Offering nose-to-tail solutions, HAECO provides a comprehensive range of services, supporting airlines across the world through its global network of facilities.
“Think of us like auto mechanics, but for commercial airplanes,” said Tess Bargebuhr, Director of Corporate Communications. “Every airline is required to complete routine and lifecycle maintenance, and we’re proud to be the trusted partner many choose because of our global scale, legacy, and innovation.”
A 75-Year Legacy of Excellence
HAECO has provided aviation services for more than 75 years and has had a presence at PTI for 35 of them. The Greensboro operation originally began as TIMCO and was acquired by HAECO in 2014. Since then, the company has invested in growing both its physical footprint and workforce development initiatives. A major expansion in 2018 added a state-of-the-art hangar – Hangar 4 – which is LEED-certified and reflects HAECO’s growing commitment to sustainability.
“We’re focused on long-term relationships with our customers, some of which span decades,” Bargebuhr said. “At the same time, we’re continuously looking ahead – adopting drone technology for inspections, investing in paperless work lines, and completing a major solar energy solution by the end of next year.”
People Power and Training Pathways
With the demand for skilled aviation technicians on the rise, HAECO is investing heavily in training and recruitment. The company offers robust in-house programs for individuals at every experience level, including paid Trainee and Aircraft Maintenance Technician programs. In partnership with Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC), HAECO provides pathways to stable, high-skill careers in aviation.
“Our training programs are designed to support everyone from high school graduates to military veterans transitioning into civilian careers,” Bargebuhr explained. “More than 30% of our workforce has military experience, and we’re proud to be designated as a military-friendly employer.”
To support long-term recruitment, HAECO recently hired a community liaison to deepen relationships with area high schools, community colleges and workforce development partners to access adults in career transition. The company is also expanding its presence in surrounding counties to raise awareness about career opportunities in aviation among younger students and their parents.
A Strategic Partnership with PTI
HAECO’s continued success in Greensboro is tightly linked to its location at PTI. The airport’s business-friendly infrastructure has supported HAECO’s growth over the years, providing space, access, and partnerships that enable innovation.
“Being located at PTI has allowed us to expand our facilities, strengthen our community partnerships, and better serve our customers with quick turnaround times,” Bargebuhr said. “It’s a great place to do business, and an even better place to build a future.”
As HAECO looks to the next 12–24 months, the company is focused on sustainability, operational excellence, and building a pipeline of talent to fuel the future of flight. In Greensboro and beyond, HAECO is not just maintaining aircraft, it’s elevating the entire aviation experience.
