Testimonials

We are recommended by leading experts in the aviation, healthcare, safety, insurance, and legal industries. Our clients are the most important part of what we do and additional references are available on request.

“VyClimb Consulting recently assisted me with a considerable safety and operations project for a helicopter operator going through multiple personnel changes, systems upgrades, and organizational changes after a catastrophic loss.
In our business of insurance, the key metric or consideration for underwriters is to understand the details of any safety and risk management culture so we can best provide the insurance products needed to protect their financial resources and assets.  With a looming task of gaining underwriter comfort and willingness to insure this particular helicopter operation, VyClimb directly related to the operator, then participated in multiple visits in person, over the phone, and in video conference settings which ultimately gained the trust of the 6 current insurance companies and 3 others. And further, was a heavy impact on likely savings in insurance premiums of $250-$350k on an annual basis (10-15% savings).  Subjective of course, but from original premium estimates, the final premium cost came down by about those numbers.”

-Joel Heining, Sales Executive, Assured Partners Aerospace

“Michael came to NMH over a year ago to help improve our aviation operations compliance, processes, efficiency, and safety. His broad experience across the air medical industry in the US and abroad is evident in his knowledge of best practices. He has a passion for safe helicopter operations and has partnered with and advised us during challenging times to provide a solid foundation for us to achieve status as the best air medical program in the United States. He has been a mentor to others and continues to leave a lasting imprint on the air medical industry.”

-J. Kevin Croston, MD, CEO, North Memorial Health

“I've had the pleasure of working with Mike at multiple companies and recognize his unmatched experience and depth of knowledge across a spectrum of key initiatives. While working with him at Air Methods, he was instrumental in stepping into an interim regional leadership role and identifying safety, cultural, and leadership needs; in this role, he recruited the right people to the right positions, built a culture of communication and support, and refocused the team on completing tasks safely and effectively.
At Apollo, Mike helped lay a foundation of aviation and safety best practices - he set training standards, policies, and practices still in use today at Apollo. Of vital importance, he started Apollo down the path of participating in the FAA Safety Management System Voluntary Program (SMSVP).”

-Jonathan Collier, Chief Strategy Officer, Apollo MedFlight & Former SVP, Operations, Air Methods

“Mike’s friendly and professional demeanor, his knowledge base, and his passion allow his message to resonate with not only the line staff but hospital executives as well. This ensures that boxes are not just checked off, but policies, procedures, equipment, and technologies are at the forefront of the program. The result is a safe mission for our HEMS colleagues and access to lifesaving care in the air for our patients.”

-Cynthia Carter, HEMS Market Manager, Airbus Helicopters

“I have personally worked with Michael on international air medical projects and am always happy to refer my domestic and international air medical clients to him exclusively. When my customers need someone to help them establish new or enhance existing operations, he is the only person that comes to mind with the hands-on experience, credibility, and respect in the industry.”

-Frank Graham, VP, Owner, LifePort / Enflite

“…excellent communicator and facilitator…”

“…extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of 14 CFR Part 135 regulations and compliance…”

“…team builder and advocate for the safest operations…”

-Various FAA Inspectors, Federal Aviation Administration

“VyClimb was a great resource for our legal team and client during a difficult and sensitive fact-finding and advising process.  Mike has excellent knowledge of relevant regulatory standards and agency practices, along with very practical work in the field.  He inspired confidence with his professional experience and his common-sense approach.  He was easy to work with, very responsive, and comfortable interacting with the entire team—senior leaders, pilots, mechanics, and lawyers—to get answers, analyze information, and move toward solutions.  I highly recommend.”

-B.A., General Counsel, Confidential Client

“VyClimb enveloped Air Care with focused, precise management and leadership guidance, invigorating our leadership teams’ skill-sets, which further reinforced our capacity for Helicopter Air Ambulance industry standard services within our communities.”

- Dr. Tara Harl, Safety Program Manager, North Memorial Air Care

“Extremely knowledgeable in all facets of Air Medical operations. Very easy to work with and will lead you down the path to success. Highly recommended.”

-Jim Speier, Flight for Life - CHRISTUS Health