Employee Spotlight: Scott Vande Hei
I find it’s something truly special to have finally found the job I could see myself one day retiring from. My name is Scott Vande Hei, and I can happily say I found that job at Enstrom Helicopter. My journey with Enstrom began nearly two decades ago in the stockroom. After about a year and a half in that position, I moved into Quality Assurance as a receiving inspector.
I felt my career with Enstrom really take off when I made the move off the production floor and began inspecting the helicopter build-up. It sparked a passion in me that continues to this day. I now have the privilege of inspecting every nook and cranny of an Enstrom before it leaves for the paint shop. I know better than anyone there’s a face and a name behind every engine, pylon, and tail cone, and it’s fair to say, that my colleagues’ work always impresses me.
But at the end of the day, all that matters is a perfect final product. By the time I get to inspect the helicopter, the outside shell of the rotorcraft is already assembled, including cowl skins, flight controls, doors, windows, and wire harnesses. My job requires I verify every component was assembled and installed correctly according to precise engineering documents. In a way, I’m like the on-site eyes for the FAA, guaranteeing our team is following their processes and procedures.
Recently, I accepted a promotion, becoming a senior lead over four departments in addition to my role as quality inspector. I’ve always taken great pride in my work, and I’m so thankful to Enstrom leadership for recognizing that and providing me with more opportunities to grow and excel.
Outside of work, you’ll always find me alongside my lovely wife of 29 years. We’re grandparents now, and we love spending time with our grandsons. We reliably host sleepovers and take trips with them to the park. My wife and I also enjoy visiting wineries in our home state of Wisconsin. However, our favorite annual pastime takes us out of the Midwest and into the Caribbean Sea. We love taking cruises, and getting to experience the beautiful scenery and friendly people who live there.
I’d like to personally invite anyone reading this to join the Enstrom family and discover their own job they could see themselves retiring from. Owner Chuck Surack has revitalized our assembly lines, and there’s so much to be excited about!
About Enstrom Helicopter
From Rudy Enstrom’s early designs in 1943 to initial testing in a Michigan Quarry in 1957 to aircraft operating on six continents, Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance. Based in Menominee, Michigan and proudly made in the United States, Enstrom has a rich history for design innovation. The goal is to provide helicopters to the customer’s exact specification and deliver support and maintenance worldwide.