Raisbeck Engineering

An Acorn Growth Company

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Lisa Wood

Gregory Davis Appointed as President

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Seattle, WA, 24 July 2024— Raisbeck Engineering Inc., a leader in aircraft performance enhancement, is thrilled to announce Gregory Davis as its new President. Davis, an aerospace engineer with extensive experience in aircraft and systems design, brings a strong background in sustainable aviation and regional air mobility.

Davis has held key roles at Eviation Aircraft, Viking Air Limited, and Marshall Aerospace, contributing to advancements in sustainable aviation, utility and business aircraft, commercial airlines, aerial firefighting, and military operations.

“I’m excited to join Raisbeck and enhance our customers’ aircraft efficiency and utility,” said Davis. “I see immense potential to grow our company within the business and utility aircraft industry.”

Raisbeck Engineering is known for innovations that save fuel, shorten trips, and improve comfort. Davis aims to continue this tradition, introducing new products to meet evolving customer needs.

Raisbeck Engineering Introduces New STC for Dual Aft Body Strakes on Cessna Caravan 208B

Seattle, WA – 16 August 2023 – Raisbeck Engineering, a leading innovator in aircraft performance enhancements, is proud to announce the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA02741SE for the installation of dual aft body strakes on the Cessna Caravan 208B. This enhancement is designed to optimize the aircraft’s aerodynamics, further improving its overall performance and operational capabilities.

The Cessna Caravan 208B, a versatile workhorse in the field of regional and utility aviation, has already demonstrated its prowess in various mission profiles. With the introduction of Raisbeck Engineering’s new STC, the aircraft’s performance envelope is set to expand, benefiting operators across the globe.

“Our dual aft body strakes smooth the airflow from the cargo pod and forward fuselage, improving directional stability and pilot control. I like to say they make the tail follow the nose.  But that is not all, in addition to the improved lateral stability, our Dual Aft Body Strakes reduce drag, improving cruise performance. The last thing I should point out is that this STC allows operators to build our EPIC Caravan incrementally, adding the strakes first followed by the forward cargo pod fairing later,” said Hal Chrisman, President at Raisbeck Engineering.

The new dual aft body strakes for the Cessna Caravan 208B are available immediately, interested operators are encouraged to reach out to their Raisbeck representative for more information on installation procedures and pricing.

Raisbeck Engineering is a renowned leader in aircraft performance improvements. With a rich history of innovation, Raisbeck Engineering develops and certifies modifications for a wide range of aircraft, enhancing their capabilities, efficiency, and overall performance. For more information, please visit https://raisbeck.com.

Nathan Rock Appointed as Director of Sales at Raisbeck Engineering

Seattle, WA – Raisbeck Engineering is pleased to announce the appointment of Nathan Rock as the new Director of Sales. In his new role, Nathan will initially focus on sales of Raisbeck’s EPIC Caravan drag reduction system, overseeing the company’s sales strategy, managing customer relationships, and driving revenue growth.

Nathan brings to Raisbeck Engineering over 20 years of experience in a combination of aviation maintenance and sales, having previously worked for leading aerospace and defense companies. Before joining Raisbeck Engineering, Nathan was the Sr Operations Manager of the 737 Program at Spirit AeroSystems, where he led a team responsible for generating over $100 million in annual revenue.

“Nathan’s impressive track record in sales and his deep understanding of the aerospace industry make him the ideal candidate to lead our Caravan sales,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck Engineering. “Importantly, Nathan has significant experience with both the Caravan and King Air from his time at Textron, one of our King Air dealers, and Empire Airlines, a Caravan 208B operator.  We are excited to have him onboard and look forward to his contributions in expanding our customer base and driving revenue growth.”

“I am honored to be joining the Raisbeck Engineering team and excited to take on this new challenge,” said Nathan. “I look forward to working with the sales team to deliver exceptional results and drive growth for the company.”

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering is a leading provider of high-performance aircraft systems and components for the aerospace industry. With over 35 years of experience, the company is known for its innovative products and commitment to customer satisfaction.

FAA Grants Raisbeck Engineering Supplemental Type Certificate Approval for Five Blade Swept Propellers for Heavyweight King Air 300 Series Aircraft

Seattle, WA – Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Company, and a leading provider of innovative aircraft modifications, has announced the issuance of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Number SA02559SE by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This new certification approves the installation of Raisbeck/Hartzell five blade swept turbofan propellers on heavyweight (16,500 lb) King Air 300, 350, 360 series aircraft.

The Raisbeck/Hartzell five blade swept turbofan propellers offer a significant enhancement to aircraft performance, including increased thrust and cruise speeds, decreased noise levels, and improved landing deceleration and accelerate stop. With carbon fiber composite construction and nickel cobalt leading edges, these Raisbeck/Hartzell propellers provide unlimited blade life while weighing 54 lbs less than the OEM propeller.

“We are thrilled to have received STC approval from the FAA for our revolutionary propeller design,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck Engineering. “Our team has worked tirelessly to extend the benefits offered by our five-blade composite propellers to operators in diverse roles requiring heavyweight aircraft such as Air Ambulance and ISR. These props are quieter and lighter, improve performance, last forever, and they look awesome on the ramp! I am confident it will be a winner for both our customers and Raisbeck.” 

Raisbeck Engineering has been producing durable, five-blade composite props for 15,000 lb King Air 300 series aircraft since 2017, and this new STC Number SA02559SE is applicable to the Beechcraft King Air B300, B300C (MC-12W), and B300C models. The five-blade composite props are now available for purchase and installation through authorized dealerships worldwide.

Raisbeck Appoints Lisa Wood Marketing Director

SEATTLE, Washington – February 14, 2023 – Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Company and leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, announces the appointment of Lisa Wood as the Director of Marketing. In this role, Ms. Wood will evolve the brand strategy, expanding Raisbeck’s reach beyond the markets served today, creating more robust customer contact mechanisms while managing all aspects of marketing communications.

Ms. Wood brings over 20 years of brand-building experience spanning across multiple industries including specialty automotive and marine industries. Her vast expertise in brand architecture and integrated marketing, both in commercial and defense markets, will expand awareness of Raisbeck’s corporate brand into new markets as well as strengthen current customer relationships.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the talented Raisbeck team,” says Wood, “Working with best-in-class industry professionals who are experts at improving OEM aircraft that operate at maximum efficiency and safety for an ideal flying experience while creating a show-stopping image on the runway, is an opportunity of a lifetime.” 

“Lisa is an excellent addition to our team and will help take Raisbeck Engineering to the next level, as we strengthen our position in the King Air and Caravan markets and expand into additional aircraft with performance enhancing aftermarket STC’s and kits,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck. “The breadth and depth of Lisa’s experience will be a huge asset as we pursue our strategic growth initiatives.”

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, Raisbeck’s aerodynamically designed enhancements deliver safer and more fuel-efficient performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit www.raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Acorn Growth Companies (AGC) is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace, Defense, Space, and Intelligence. Acorn invests solely in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility and protect national interests. Acorn has a formidable reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the Aerospace, Defense, Space, and Intelligence markets, with proprietary access to the best companies within these sectors. With operational expertise and its ability to lead and manage investments through variable economic and industry cycles, Acorn works in tandem with management to build its portfolio companies into significant market leaders. More information can be found at AcornGrowthCompanies.com. 

Raisbeck Responds to Snohomish County Aircraft Accident


Statement from Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck Engineering:

“On Friday, November 18, 2022, a Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX crashed in Snohomish County, Washington, and resulted in the death of four crew members.

The aircraft was under lease to Raisbeck Engineering (Raisbeck) and at the time of the crash was under the command of two highly-experienced test pilots, both with over 10,000 flight hours, collecting baseline aircraft performance data. The entire crew of four also included a flight test director and an instrumentation engineer.

The flight on November 18 was collecting baseline aircraft performance data prior to installation of a Raisbeck modification. This is a standard industry practice that allows aviation engineering firms to establish baseline aircraft performance under a highly structured flight profile to later measure and compare the change in performance after any proposed modifications are installed. The aircraft was in this initial testing phase and had not yet been modified in any way by Raisbeck.

All the members of the Raisbeck family are devastated by this tragic accident. And while Raisbeck feels this loss deeply, we cannot begin to imagine the loss and pain of the families and other loved ones of these crew members.

The accident is being evaluated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the results of which will be forthcoming. Raisbeck cannot speculate as to the cause of the accident ahead of the findings of the NTSB. Raisbeck prides itself on a legacy of safety and is committed to cooperating with authorities on the investigation. Out of respect for the families, Raisbeck is not commenting on any crew members involved in the accident, at this time.

Raisbeck designs, develops, and certifies highly reliable aircraft safety, capability, and performance enhancing products and modifications. These modifications help aircraft fly faster, carry more passengers or cargo and improve flight range, as well as other improvements to flight.”

Five-Year GSA Contract Expands Raisbeck’s Footprint in Government Arena

Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, today announced that it has been awarded a General Service Administration Multiple Award Schedule contract (MAS). The contract, which took effect September 30, 2022, is valid for five years with three five-year option periods.

The GSA Schedule is significant in that it makes the company’s products accessible through a simplified buying process to state and federal government agencies, expanding the company’s footprint in the federal government marketplace. To qualify for GSA approval, the company went through a rigorous 18-month application process. Contractors selling through the GSA contract are carefully vetted beforehand and must have a proven track record within its industry. The GSA Multiple Award Schedule also provides a competitive advantage in the government sector since terms and conditions including pricing and warranties are previously agreed upon.

“We are very excited to receive a GSA Contract Award,” stated Raisbeck President Hal Chrisman. “Getting on the GSA schedule shows government buyers that Raisbeck Engineering and our products have been thoroughly vetted by the government. So, any state or federal agency can, with confidence and ease, purchase Raisbeck’s existing performance improvement modifications or engineering services to address new or emerging requirements.”

Founded in 1949, GSA manages more than one-fourth of the government’s total procurement dollars and continuously accounts for approximately $44 billion of Government spending. GSA provides a centralized delivery system of products with predetermined terms and conditions such as pricing, delivery times, and warranties and serves to leverage its buying power to obtain the best value for taxpayers.

Don Graves Joins Raisbeck as Chief Financial Officer

Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, today announced the appointment of Don Graves as Chief Financial Officer.

Graves is a seasoned leader who brings over 25 years of finance, corporate strategy, accounting, and operational expertise at the executive and board level. He comes to Raisbeck from Korry Electronics, where he was a key business leader responsible for overseeing the company’s financial functions, including financial reporting, analysis, and forecasting, a role in which he positioned Korry for financial growth and efficiency. In addition, Graves supervised the company’s accounting and IT departments.

“Don is an excellent addition to our team and brings with him extensive financial, operational, and strategic experience with a proven track record of success,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck. “This, combined with his experience in and financial knowledge of the Aviation Industry will be a huge asset as we move the company forward in advancing our strategic growth initiatives.”

In his new role, Graves will lead Raisbeck’s financial activities including, accounting, financial planning, and analysis, financial reporting, cost control, insurance, and internal audit. Additionally, he will oversee the company’s ERP implementation, and interface with parent company Acorn Growth Companies and its investors.

“I am excited to step into the CFO role at Raisbeck and assist the company as it continues to grow,” said Graves. “Raisbeck has a strong foundation with excellent growth opportunities, and I look forward to working with Hal and the rest of the team to help drive the Company into its next phase.”

Prior to joining Korry Electronics, Graves served as Director of Business Management at Blue Origin, where he was responsible for managing all financial planning and analysis, developing Strategic Plans, Forecasting, and Costing Models for the Business Units. He also served as VP Finance at Top Aces and CFO of the Advanced Composites and Engineered Materials Division at Zodiac Aerospace. Graves holds a master’s degree in business administration from Portland State University and a bachelor’s degree in business and administrative studies from Lewis & Clark College.

Spring City Aviation Named as New Authorized King Air Dealer for Raisbeck

Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, is pleased to announce the addition of Spring City Aviation (SCA) to its worldwide network of Authorized Dealers. Headquartered at Waukesha County Airport (KUES) in Waukesha, Wisconsin, SCA has nearly three decades of experience in the aviation industry.

Founded in 1996 with over 100 employees at three southeastern Wisconsin locations (Waukesha, Burlington, and Milwaukee), Spring City Aviation specializes in aircraft maintenance for general aviation aircraft, FBO services, aircraft sales, aircraft management, and flight training. In addition, the company owns and operates an all-King-Air charter service.

“We are very pleased to welcome Spring City Aviation to our global network of dealers and look forward to a long and successful relationship that will offer greater opportunities to deliver added value to King Air owners and operators in the Midwest,” said Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck Engineering.  “We are always looking for ways to support our valued customers in providing performance enhancement solutions for the King Air family and this new partnership with Spring City Aviation strengthens that commitment.”

“We have been operating and providing maintenance on King Airs in the Wisconsin and Illinois region for the past 20 years,” said Josh Siehoff, General Manager of Spring City Aviation. “Our company has extensive experience with installing and utilizing Raisbeck products on our charter fleet of King Airs and we stand behind them. As our King Air business continues to grow, we believe a partnership with Raisbeck is a natural complement to our business and will provide an additional level of value to our current King Air owners and future customers.”

In addition to performing maintenance on all types of GA aircraft including Pilatus PC-12, Citation 10, and Learjet 60, the company’s current focus is on growing their King Air business in the Midwest. Spring City Aviation’s charter operation is comprised exclusively of Beechcraft King Airs, including three B200s, one C90, one 350 and one King Air 360 serving the Great Lakes region, the Great Plains and Canada.

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About Spring City Aviation
Founded in 1996 initially as a father-and-son operated flight school in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Spring City Aviation (SCA) has grown steadily into a full-service aviation company with a solid reputation for serving business and general aviation in the Midwest. SCA has built a reputation on providing the highest level of customer service and aircraft expertise with services that include maintenance, aircraft sales, aircraft management, flight training, and air charter.  For more information about Spring City Aviation and its three locations, please visit www.springcityaviation.com.

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