CALSTAR Welcomes New Director of Safety

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Oct. 15, 2015 - PRLog -- California Shock Trauma Air Rescue (CALSTAR) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael W. Koenes as the new Director of Safety. Koenes, who has 32 years of helicopter experience, began his career in the U.S. Air Force, serving in active duty for 15 years. From 2007 until accepting the offer to join CALSTAR, Koenes was the Sr. Director of Flight Safety at Air Methods in Denver, CO, and a key player in delivering safety programs to the largest air medical company in the world.

His prior experience includes his work at Rocky Mountain Helicopters as a Lead Maintenance Technician, and later, at Flight Management Corporation, as Aviation Maintenance Coordinator.  He returned to Rocky Mountain Helicopters in 2000 as Manager of their Part 145 Repair Station, and remained with the company through the acquisition of Rocky Mountain Helicopters by Air Methods in 2002.

In addition, Koenes is a certified International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations Auditor, a certified Safety Management Systems and Aviation Program Management designee from the Transportation Safety Institute, as well as a certified Safety Risk Management Trainer. Early in his career, he earned his Airframe Powerplant and Inspection Authorization certificates in addition to his Private Pilot’s license and instrument rating.

Koenes holds both a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Aeronautical Science Degree (Aviation System Safety) from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

“Michael will report directly to me and will oversee all aspects of employee and base safety programs and initiatives,” says Lynn Malmstrom, President and CEO. “We are honored to have Michael join our team; he brings significant real-world safety experience and insight to our organization, which will further support our commitment to the safety of our base teams and the patients we transport.”

“As demonstrated in his career, Michael is deeply committed to safety and service excellence,” adds Tad Henderson, COO. “His appointment will greatly enhance our leadership, and the quality of our day-to-day operations.”

About CALSTAR

California Shock Trauma Air Rescue (CALSTAR) is one of the largest non-profit air ambulance providers on the West Coast. With bases located throughout the state, CALSTAR provides immediate air medical transport to those who need critical care services. Saving lives, reducing disability and speeding recovery for victims of trauma and illness through rapid transport, quality medical care and education is CALSTAR’s mission.

The company is headquartered at McClellan Park, Sacramento.