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Acorn Growth Companies Names Hal Chrisman President of Raisbeck Engineering, Inc.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla., July 8, 2020 — Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm investing exclusively in aerospace, defense and intelligence, today announced the appointment of Hal Chrisman as president of its portfolio business, Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. headquartered in Seattle, Washington. 

 “I am very pleased that an individual of Hal’s caliber and talent will be leading Raisbeck through this unprecedented moment in history and into the company’s next phase of innovation and growth,” said Rick Nagel, managing partner of Acorn Growth Companies. “His leadership, experience, fresh insights and extensive knowledge in aerospace and defense will prove to be a tremendous asset to Raisbeck in positioning the company to achieve its long-term strategic goals and expansion into new aircraft markets.” 

A seasoned aviation, aerospace and defense professional with over 34 years of experience in the industry, Chrisman has split his time between consulting and executive level industry positions which span all major market segments including business aviation, commercial air transport, defense, and rotary wing. Most recently, Chrisman was Chief Strategy Officer with Acorn Growth Companies. 

 “It’s a pleasure to join the Raisbeck team and I look forward to leading this great group of experienced professionals,” said Chrisman. “Raisbeck is known for delivering the highest quality of innovative performance enhancements for business and commercial aircraft that enrich our customers’ flight experience. Together we will continue to build on that legacy by delivering the very best in technology advancements.” 

Prior to joining Acorn, Chrisman served in several leadership roles within Aerospace and Defense Consulting and MRO companies, including ICF’s Aerospace & MRO practice, AeroStrategy and Pemco Aviation Group.  He started his career as a project engineer with Williams International, a leading gas turbine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), working the cruise missile engine program and leading the development of the Sub-system Power Unit for the Comanche Helicopter. 

Chrisman holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hanover College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Texas A&M University along with an MBA from the University of Michigan.

About Raisbeck Engineering, Inc.

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense 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 better performance results and improve passenger comfort.  For more information about Raisbeck Engineering’s list of products, please visit www.raisbeck.com.  Stay connected with Raisbeck online through Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About Acorn Growth Companies

Acorn Growth Companies is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace, Defense 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 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. AcornGrowthCompanies.com

Baker Aviation Named as Authorized Dealer for Raisbeck Engineering

May 6, 2019 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, is pleased to announce the appointment of Baker Aviation in Fort Worth, Texas, to its global network of Authorized Dealers. 

Established in 2008 exclusively as a private jet services company to provide a broad scope of customized aviation services, Baker Aviation has diversified their maintenance platforms and product offerings over the years and today serves as a full-service aircraft maintenance, management and charter company. 

“As our King Air business continues to grow here in Fort Worth, we believe this new dealership is the right direction for our company,” stated Stan Baker, III, Baker Aviation President.  “We look forward to offering more performance enhancing options to our King Air clients and I am confident that this is the beginning of a long and productive relationship with Raisbeck.”

Ray Goyco, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer for Baker Aviation Maintenance, added, “Raisbeck has always been on the cutting edge of King Air performance systems and we are excited about this new dealership.  I have great respect and admiration for Bill Cadow, Director of Sales for Raisbeck, as we have worked together on many projects and it has always been a positive and mutually rewarding experience.”

Located in Fort Worth, Texas, Baker Aviation immediate plans include centralizing and expanding operations with the development of two new state-of-the-art hangars currently under construction to house their FAA Part 145 repair station and Part 135 charter and aircraft maintenance business.

“We are thrilled Baker Aviation has joined our worldwide team of Authorized Dealers,” said Lynn Thomas, President for Raisbeck Engineering.  “Appointing a highly experienced maintenance facility such as Baker Aviation helps us continue to support our valued customers in providing performance enhancement solutions for the King Air family.”

About Baker Aviation

Baker Aviation is a full-service aircraft maintenance, management, and charter company, licensed to provide professional aviation services worldwide.  ARG/US Platinum-Rated and IS-BAO registered, Baker Aviation is headquartered at Meacham International Airport in Fort Worth, Texas.  FAA Part 145 maintenance services are also provided at KFTW with expertise in airframe maintenance for Hawker, King Air, Beechcraft, Citation, Learjet, Falcon, Challenger and Gulfstream aircraft.  Baker is a dealer for BLR Aerospace King Air performance upgrades, a stocking distributor of PMA Parts from Omega Aircraft Articles, and a dealer for LED Lighting with Aircraft Lighting International.  Baker Aviation is also the exclusive master distributor of the HOT-STOP® ‘L’ Fire Containment product line.  To learn more or to schedule service, please visit baker-aviation.com or call 972-248-0457.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense 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 better 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 our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Raisbeck Engineering Expands Dealer Network in Texas

Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. (“REI”) and Aerospace Instrument Support, Inc. (“AIS”) are pleased to announce Aerospace Instrument Support has joined Raisbeck’s global network of Authorized Dealers. Located at the Denton Airport in Denton, Texas, Aerospace Instrument Support specializes in providing aircraft maintenance and avionics installation/support as well as major aircraft modifications for Business Class aircraft.

Established in 1995 exclusively as an instrument repair facility, AIS has expanded to offer full avionics and airframe services while maintaining their proven combination of friendly and honest attitude with one of the best turnaround times in the industry. Aerospace Instrument Support’s A&Ps and IAs have years of experience in maintaining aircraft of all variation with extensive factory rated schooling in King Air, Pilatus, Cessna, Embraer, Caravan and Piaggio.

“We are very pleased to add AIS to our global network of dealers,” said Raisbeck President Lynn Thomas. “It is a perfect fit as Customer Support has been a primary focus for our company. Appointing Aerospace Instrument Support with their combined 85+ years of experience in maintaining aircraft along with their excellent customer support was a natural partnership for us.”

AIS recently completed modifications of 10 factory new King Air 250’s equipped with REI systems. “These mods were done in rapid succession and allowed us to perfect our process and deliver an excellent product with as minimal downtime as possible,” said Andy Johnson, AIS President. “Raisbeck’s support and commitment to quality during this project was unmatched and we are proud to be offering their product lines to our current and future customers.”

About Aerospace Instrument Support

Aerospace Instrument Support was founded in 1995 initially as an instrument repair facility. Today with over 85+ combined years of technician experience, we’ve expanded our capabilities which includes airframe inspections, structural repairs, engine repairs and overhauls, and paint and interior repair. We are fully-devoted to providing the best customer support and take pride in meeting our customers’ needs. For more information about Aerospace Instrument Support, contact Adam Johnson at (940) 566-8079 or on the web at www.ais-inst.com.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense 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 better 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 our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

Contact: Michelle Lieuallen, michelle@raisbeck.com

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. (206) 723-2000

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Acorn Growth Companies Names President of Raisbeck Engineering Inc.

SEATTLE – Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm investing exclusively in Aerospace, Defense and Intelligence, announced Lynn Thomas as the new president of its portfolio business, Raisbeck Engineering Inc. headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

“Since Lynn joined Raisbeck Engineering in the spring of last year as our VP of Sales and Marketing, he has transformed our sales organization achieving consistent growth,” said Rick Nagel, managing partner of Acorn Growth Companies. “I am delighted to promote Lynn to the role of president. As a pilot, his passion for the business and 35 years of business experience will have a continued, positive impact on the growth and profitability of Raisbeck Engineering.”

Thomas is an experienced executive with an extensive background in all disciplines of business management, including strategies for increased growth and profitability, market positioning and effective financial planning.

Most recently he served as the vice president of sales and marketing at Raisbeck. Throughout his career he has served in several leadership roles within general aviation companies, including Banyan Air Service, Quest Aircraft and Aviat Aircraft. Earlier in his career he served as an investment advisor with Everen Securities and Paine Weber.

Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Northern Colorado. He currently holds a commercial pilot and instrument rating for land and sea – soloing for the first time at age 16.

Founded in 1982 Raisbeck Engineering develops, markets and manufactures worldwide-certified performance improvement systems for some of the most prolific commercial and general aviation aircraft models in the market today.

“It is a true honor to lead the most talented team of men and women in the aviation industry,” Thomas said. “The opportunity to build on the legacy that James Raisbeck began and maintain our position as the innovative leader in aviation performance and comfort solutions for business and commercial aircraft is truly the highlight of my career.”

Raisbeck Engineering Inc., 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 Engineering’s aerodynamically designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. Raisbeck.com

Acorn Growth Companies is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace, Defense 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 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. AcornGrowthCompanies.com

Media Contact:
Kath Searle, Acorn
682.888.4466

Investor Contact:
Brandon Bradford, Acorn
917.224.8399

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Raisbeck Announces STC Approvals for Beechcraft King Air 300-300LW Propellers

June 28‚ 2018 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, today announced it has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the company’s five-blade composite swept propeller and four-blade aluminum swept propeller for the Beechcraft King Air 300/300LW aircraft.

“We are pleased to offer King Air 300/300LW operators the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with added performance, efficiency and a quieter cabin with either one of these propeller systems,” said Lynn Thomas, acting President of Raisbeck Engineering. “These STCs are the result of many long hours from our engineers and their support team.”

The advanced design of the five-blade carbon composite swept propeller blades allows for unlimited blade life and reduced maintenance costs while providing the strength and durability expected from modern composites. As an alternative, Raisbeck is bringing its four-blade aluminum swept propeller, which has already been approved for the King Air 90, King Air 200 series and King Air B300 series, to the King Air 300/300LW.

Contact: Michelle Lieuallen, michelle@raisbeck.com, Raisbeck Engineering, Inc. (206) 723-2000

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense 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 better 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 our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

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Raisbeck Receives ANAC STC Approval for Composite Five-Blade Swept Propeller

April 30‚ 2018 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, today announced that it has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC) for its Composite Five-Blade Swept Propeller for the King Air 350 series aircraft.

“We are thrilled our Brazilian customers are now able to benefit from the advantages the Composite Five-Blade Swept Propellers bring to the King Air 350,” said Bill Lally, Vice President of Customer Support. “This new STC approval broadens our ability to offer the Composite Five-Blade Swept Propeller to customers across the globe.” In addition to ANAC STC approval, the Composite Five-Blade Swept Propeller has received certification from the FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) and Australia, with Transport Canada and EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) approvals expected soon.

Raisbeck’s Composite Five-Blade Swept Propeller, designed to improve the King Air 350 comfort, performance and efficiency, was developed in collaboration with Hartzell Propeller. At 106-inches in diameter, the Composite Five-Blade Swept Propeller reduces weight and contributes to improved short field and climb performance, while providing strength, durability and lowering cockpit and cabin sound levels.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, an Acorn Growth Aerospace and Defense 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 better 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 our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

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Raisbeck Engineering Welcomes New Vice President of Finance

April 11, 2018 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, today announced the appointment of Gerald Pratt as Vice President of Finance. In his new position, Pratt will be responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the company, including budget management, general accounting, financial reporting and managing the internal audit. Additionally he will oversee operational areas including human resources and software development.

Pratt brings to Raisbeck Engineering more than 17 years of finance and accounting experience with an extensive background in financial reporting, business analytics, budgeting, and cost accounting. Prior to joining Raisbeck Engineering, Pratt served as Financial Operations Manager for Beckwith & Duffel, a diversified company offering pump, blower and compressor systems throughout the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. Before that, he held a number of cost accounting and financial accounting leadership roles including Senior Inventory Accountant and Corporate Internal Auditor with PACCAR Automotive, Inc. Pratt holds a B.S. in Business Administration and a B.S. in Computer Science.

“I am very pleased to announce Gerald’s appointment as Raisbeck’s new Vice President of Finance,” said Lynn Thomas, Raisbeck President. “Gerald is a proven leader and comes to us with a broad mix of financial, IT, and HR experience which will be a great addition to the company.”

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., 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 Engineering’s aerodynamically-designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit Raisbeck.com. Stay connected with Raisbeck online through our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.

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Raisbeck Engineering Acquires Butterfield Industries

December 12, 2017 – Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering Inc. (“REI”), a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, announced today it has successfully completed the acquisition of Butterfield Industries (“BI”). The acquisition will enable REI customers to take advantage of a broader offering of products and systems in the general aviation market.

“We are thrilled to welcome Butterfield products into the Raisbeck family and are working aggressively to fully integrate BI products and STCs under one platform for our dealers and customers as soon as possible,” said Tony Armstrong, CEO at Raisbeck Engineering. “This acquisition is in line with our company’s overall business model and consistent with our strategy of growth by developing new market segments.”

The acquisition further broadens REI’s capabilities to provide quality engineered products to the Beechcraft King Air family.

About Raisbeck Engineering

Raisbeck Engineering Inc., an AGC Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, REI’s aerodynamically designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. For more information about Raisbeck Engineering and our products, please visit www.raisbeck.com

About Butterfield Industries

Butterfield Industries, headquartered in Meridian, ID, has proudly produced quality airplane parts for installation on King Air Models for over 30 years.

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Raisbeck Engineering to Acquire Butterfield Industries

Seattle, Wash. – Raisbeck Engineering Inc. (“REI”), a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business and commercial aircraft, announced its decision to sign a definitive acquisition agreement with Butterfield Industries (“BI”) for all of its products and STCs. The deal is anticipated to close on or before October 31, 2017.

Butterfield Industries produces FAA approved replacement parts for numerous King Air models. Key products include: PMA Direct Replacement Floorboards, Fuel Point Pans, Oil Residue Collection Systems, Air/Oil Separator Systems and Flow-Through Anti-Ice Kits.

“BI’s products are a natural fit with Raisbeck’s King Air offerings,” stated James Raisbeck, Founder and Chairman of Raisbeck Engineering. “Wayne Butterfield, the founder of Butterfield Industries and principal inventor of its systems, has been a corporate partner and friend dating back to 1982. Many of the aircraft that carry Raisbeck modifications also carry Butterfield systems.”

“We have found the right partner in REI,” commented Wayne Butterfield, Founder and CEO of Butterfield Industries. “REI’s established dealer distribution network will enable our products to reach a larger customer base.”

“We are pleased at the synergies between the businesses, creating an environment for strategic growth as BI products are integrated into REI product and system offerings,” remarked Rick Nagel, Managing Partner of Acorn Growth Companies, the owner and managing partner of Raisbeck.

Terms of the transaction are not announced.

Butterfield Industries, headquartered in Meridian, ID, has proudly produced quality airplane parts for installation on King Air Models for over 30 years. Butterfieldindustries.com

Raisbeck Engineering, Inc., an AGC Aerospace and Defense company, is a leading provider of aircraft modifications for business and commercial aircraft. Dedicated to improving performance and efficiency for aircraft owners, REI’s aerodynamically designed enhancements deliver better performance results and improve passenger comfort. Raisbeck.com

Acorn Growth Companies is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on A&D. Acorn invests solely in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility and national security. Acorn has a strong reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the A&D 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. AcornGrowthCompanies.com

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