Kawak Aviation Technologies Announces Leadership Transition, Reinforcing Commitment to Customers and Innovation
BEND, OREGON, March 1, 2025 - “Kawak Aviation Technologies is proud to announce the retirement of Founder and President Mike Reightley after 32 years of dedicated leadership. Under his vision, Kawak has become synonymous with innovation, reliability, and customer trust in the aviation industry. Effective March 1, 2025, Steven Sawyer, current Vice President and principal in the company, will assume the role of President.
For over 17 years, Mr. Sawyer has played a pivotal role in shaping Kawak’s success, serving as Director of Engineering and Program Management and leading key initiatives in aerial firefighting, freighter conversions, and defense-related products. His deep experience, customer-first mindset, and commitment to delivering industry-leading solutions position him perfectly to carry Kawak forward without missing a beat.
“Our customers have always been at the heart of everything we do,” said 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 echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Kawak’s unwavering focus on the people who rely on its products. “Kawak has never been just another aerospace company—we are a trusted partner, and that will never change,” said Sawyer. “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.”
With this transition, Kawak stays firmly rooted in its values—customer-focused, privately held, and driven by innovation. Under Sawyer’s leadership, the company is poised for even greater success, ensuring customers continue to receive the performance and service that define Kawak.
About Kawak Aviation Technologies
Kawak Aviation Technologies products are found on numerous fixed and rotary winged aircraft around the world. Kawak’s line of aerial firefighting products include tank and pump systems for the Sikorsky S-70/UH-60, the CH-47D, Bell 205/212/412, and its line of fire buckets from 320 to 2600 US Gallon capacity. Kawak also produces aircraft throttle quadrants, hydraulic systems for freighter main cargo doors, electric motors, and other power transmission equipment. Kawak has a track record of providing innovative solutions for difficult and challenging mission equipment requirements for the aviation industry.
For more news and information on Kawak, please visit www.kawakaviation.com
