Justin Roberts|general manager
Justin brings incredible expertise in aviation operations and business development, built from experience across several industries. His focus is on client relationships and making our maintenance program the best it can be. He has two precious kids at home — which means he has no free time!
paul severt|Chief Inspector
Paul is a United States Air Force veteran with over 35 years of aviation maintenance experience, an FAA Certified Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic, as well as an FAA Inspector Authorization. He is responsible for the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft that pass through the maintenance facility in Hickory, NC. Paul is from Valdese, NC and enjoys spending time with his family and their dogs.
RAY FILBECK|Director Of Maintenance
Ray brings over 25 years of aviation expertise to his role leading the maintenance team at Appalachian Aero Group. A United States Marine Corps veteran, he served as a plane captain on the AV-8B Harrier for five years before transitioning to commercial aviation. Ray holds an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification with Inspection Authorization and has extensive experience across Part 91, 121, 135, and 145 operations.
His diverse background includes positions in heavy maintenance, line maintenance, maintenance control, and aircraft management. He has worked on a wide variety of aircraft, including Cessna, Beechcraft, Falcon, Embraer, and Pilatus platforms. As an inspector and lead mechanic, Ray has consistently demonstrated his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety and service.
"I am passionate about aviation and the relationships I have built over many years in the business," Ray says. "It is a great pleasure and honor to be leading the maintenance team at Appalachian Aero Group." Outside of work, Ray loves spending time with his wife Tiffany, and their children Nate and Annabelle. He can often be found on the golf course or socializing with friends and colleagues.
BRANDON HURLEY|AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN
Brandon lives in Lincolnton, NC with his wife and daughter, having served in the military gaining experience as a technician. He’s worked on several airframes over his 10 years in aviation maintenance, and now focuses on King Air and Citations with AAG. Brandon takes advantage of living in the beautiful NC foothills by being outdoors in his free time, hunting and fishing, and piloting R/C drones.
Certifications: A&P, OSHA
DUSTY GARNES|AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN
Dusty Garnes is an Airframe and Powerplant Technician apprentice. He is a North Carolina Army National Guard veteran who served in petroleum and other lubricants, gunnery, and security forces missions. He is an experienced airport line technician familiar with aviation fuels and lubricants, airport operations, safe aircraft movement and towing, freight handling.
AARON CROWE|AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN
Aaron is from here in Hickory, North Carolina, brings avionics and piston experience to the AAG Team. He loves flying planes in his spare time after helping maintain them on the job–surely rare for a music major, but passion for aviation won’t be denied!
Certifications: A&P, FCC GROL, PPL
Cody Livingston|AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN
Cody is originally from Lincolnton, NC, holds an A&P certification and graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. With a passion for aviation and anything with a motor, he enjoys working on aircraft and embracing the thrill of the skies with a collection of RC airplanes. When he’s not in the hangar, you can find Cody riding anything with two wheels, whether a motorcycle or dirt bike. His diverse interests combine a love for aviation, engineering, and adventure.
Sierra Russel |Parts Manager
