In January of 2002, fire destroyed the Vanderhoof Flying Services hanger at the Vanderhoof Airport. At that time, Bryan Wallace and Eric Stier, 2 of 7 employees left without employment, knew a flying service was essential to the area and approached Community Futures Stuart Nechako. In June 2002, Guardian Aerospace was incepted with 3 core services; Aircraft structural repair and maintenance, aerial reconnaissance and charter and commercial flight training. Guardian Aerospace rebuilt their flight training aircraft in its own facility and it was placed into service over the winter of 2002/2003.
“One of the biggest reasons we are successful is because Community Futures worked with us from the very beginning and when times got tough, they never gave up on us.” – Bryan Wallace
Guardian Aerospace 2018, employs ten people, is a Transport Canada approved maintenance organization offering Aircraft structural maintenance and repair, operates a commercial flight training facility in Vanderhoof and Prince George and offers a variety of air charter services for hunting, fishing, exploration, skydiving and tourism.
This business has led to other endeavours with the startup of HMI robotic in 2016, and they are now looking to acquire a CNC lathe for milling, drilling and tapping.
“Community Futures Stuart Nechako looks at the bigger picture and how small businesses can really fit into the local community story. With this sort of assistance we will be able to increase our staff, training and equipment.”
Watch Guardian Aerospace’s Success Story video below:
To learn more about Guardian Aerospace visit their website: guardianaerospace.net
