Aviation Mechanic Named Manatee Sheriff's Employee Of Month

BRADENTON, FL — An aviation mechanic has been named the Manatee County Sheriff's Office employee of the month.

Jamey Thompson was replacing the windshields in a sheriff's office helicopter when he discovered what officials described as substantial structural damage to the upper portion of the airframe. Thompson notified his supervisor of the issue.

"He advised it could cost the agency thousands, perhaps even tens of thousands of dollars to send it out for repair, or worse yet, the possibility of the aircraft being taken out of service permanently," according to the sheriff's office. "Because Jamey is also a certified airframe mechanic, he asked to attempt the repairs himself."

After receiving permission, Thompson began the "daunting" task of disassembly, documentation, metal fabrication and reassembly of the disabled aircraft.

"In just over a month and a half, Jamey had repaired the aircraft and put it back into service," the sheriff's office explained.

Officials said Thompson's repairs saved the sheriff's office a significant amount of money.

"More importantly, he may have found a severe issue which could have led to an air disaster if not discovered," officials said. "For his keen observation and exceptional mechanical skills, Jamey Thompson is awarded the agency’s employee of the month for May."