Advancing Air Medical Services Through Excellence and Innovation

The Air Medical Mechanics Organization (AMMO) was born out of a shared passion and a collective recognition of the vital role that mechanics play in the world of air medical services. Founded by four professionals deeply embedded in the industry—Tom Johnson – A&P Mechanic; Miles Dunagan - pilot and safety; Jason Clark- clinical and business; and Ryan Penrose - operations and business —AMMO is a testament to our commitment to advancing the field of air medical transport by championing the critical role of mechanics.

Throughout our careers, we've all witnessed the indispensable work of mechanics. They are the ones who ensure that every helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft operates at peak performance. These machines are not just vehicles; they are lifelines, critical to the safe and effective transport of patients requiring urgent medical care. Despite their crucial role, mechanics often remain the unsung heroes behind the scenes, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and reliability of air medical operations.

The idea for AMMO emerged from our collective desire to elevate the status of air medical mechanics and create a platform where their contributions could be recognized and their skills continuously developed. We’ve seen firsthand how often the spotlight is on pilots, medical crews, and operations teams, but without the expertise and dedication of mechanics, air medical services would not be able to function with the reliability and safety that patients and healthcare providers rely on.

AMMO’s mission is to promote excellence in maintenance practices, foster innovation, and ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability in air medical transport. By focusing on these areas, we believe we can make a significant impact not only in the lives of the mechanics we serve but also in the overall quality and safety of air medical operations.

Our primary goals are to provide education, certification (eventually), and advocacy for mechanics. The field of air medical services is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and best practices emerging regularly. It’s essential that mechanics have access to the latest information and training to stay at the top of their game. Whether they are just starting out in their careers or are seasoned professionals, mechanics need resources that help them maintain and enhance their skills. AMMO is committed to offering these resources, from comprehensive training programs to certification opportunities that recognize and validate their expertise.

Beyond technical skills, AMMO is also about building a community. We know that being a mechanic in the air medical field can sometimes feel like a solitary endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be. By bringing together professionals from across the industry, we aim to create a supportive network where members can share knowledge, collaborate on solutions, and support each other in their careers. Continuous improvement and excellence are at the heart of everything we do, and we believe that by fostering a strong community, we can drive the industry forward in meaningful ways.

In starting AMMO, we also wanted to address a gap we noticed in the industry—the lack of easily accessible information and resources for mechanics. Whether they are new to the field or have been working for decades, mechanics need a place where they can find the information they need to expand their knowledge base and improve their practices. AMMO is designed to be that resource, offering a wealth of information, from technical manuals and best practice guides to forums where members can ask questions and share their experiences.

Ultimately, the decision to start AMMO was driven by our shared desire to make a positive impact on the industry and to help mechanics thrive in their roles. The work that mechanics do is incredibly important, and by providing them with the tools, education, and support they need, we can help ensure that air medical services continue to operate at the highest levels of safety and reliability.

AMMO is more than just an organization—it’s a movement to recognize and advance the critical role of mechanics in air medical services. We’re excited about the future and the difference we can make together.