Kawak Aviation Technologies announces leadership change

Kawak Aviation Technologies has announced the retirement of Founder and President Mike Reightley, after 32 years of leadership. Effective from 1 March, Steven Sawyer, current Vice President and principal in the company, will assume the role of President.

For over 17 years, Sawyer has played a pivotal role at Kawak, serving as Director of Engineering and Program Management and leading key initiatives in aerial firefighting, freighter conversions, and defense-related products. 

“Our customers have always been at the heart of everything we do,” reflected Reightley. “Kawak was built on the principles of delivering superior products, unmatched support, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. That is the foundation of our success, and it is exactly what will continue under Steve’s leadership. Steve and his brother Andrew Sawyer, both long-time principals in the company, are fully committed to Kawak’s legacy as a private, family-owned business dedicated to the industries we serve. Our customers can have absolute confidence that the best days for Kawak, and for them, are still ahead.”

Sawyer added: “Our customers operate in high-stakes environments, and they count on us for the most reliable, high-performance solutions. That commitment remains stronger than ever.”

Last year Coulson partnered with Kawak to launch a Black Hawk aircraft platform.