When Milton Costa of 12 Stones LLC landed his King Air C-90 at Stroud Municipal Airport on October 7, he needed a critical hot section inspection, and he needed it fast. Thanks to the Mint Turbines team, his aircraft was fully inspected and ready to fly again within two days.

Hot section inspections are a big deal for turbine engines like the Pratt & Whitney PT6A on the King Air. This is the part of the engine that operates under extreme heat and stress, and it requires careful attention approximately every 1,800 flight hours. Getting it done on time isn’t just about compliance…it’s about keeping the engine performing safely and reliably.

For Mr. Costa, the swift and professional service from the team at Mint Turbines was
a significant win. The prompt turnaround minimized the aircraft’s downtime, allowing him to
return to Texas and get back to business quickly.

Our strategic proximity to the Stroud Municipal Airport also plays an essential role in making this possible. With full-service facilities for general aviation, the airport isn’t just a convenient stop; it’s a hub where Mint Turbines can deliver top-notch service and support regional aviation growth. The ongoing runway expansion at KSUD only adds to its appeal as a base for aircraft maintenance in the region.

Whether it’s routine maintenance, repair or full overhaul, our FAA-authorized team keeps aircraft flying safely, just like we did for Mr. Costa.

Harold took his first twin-engine airplane ride at the age of nine. He grew up near an Air Force base in Charleston, SC, and, with a father in the Marines, he was familiar with aviation. However, he never seriously considered it as a career. After graduating high school, he began working for a land survey company.

One day, Harold received a call from one of his close friends. He asked if Harold would attend a tour of an aviation maintenance tech school with him to keep him from being talked into enrolling on the spot. Being a good friend, Harold obliged. Something stuck with Harold on the tour, and the following month, he began aviation maintenance technology classes…while his friend went on to become a cross-country truck driver.

As it turned out, Harold had a natural instinct for the industry.

He began his career as an aviation maintenance technician II at Delta Air Lines, gaining hands-on experience before expanding into material management and contract support. Over time, he moved into leadership, ultimately serving as a senior logistics manager. His path continued in education, where he served as Director of Aviation for the Technical College System of Georgia, helping shape the next generation of aviation professionals.

From there, Harold stepped into a leadership role at Pratt & Whitney, where he saw firsthand how disciplined processes and a strong quality culture directly impact both operational performance and long-term success. He oversaw multiple engine assembly lines, including both commercial and military programs, as well as high-thrust test cell operations.

Eager to return to the airline side of the industry, he later joined United Airlines Express, where he led planning and strategy for heavy maintenance and fleet operations. Most recently, before joining Mint Turbines, Abraham served as General Manager of a Part 145 component MRO, specializing in the overhaul of military aircraft components for U.S. and international customers.

New start at Mint Turbines:

For Harold, the decision to join Mint Turbines came down to a combination of stability, culture and opportunity.
With a 40+-year track record, Mint Turbines’ longevity stood out immediately. But just as important was the company’s culture, one rooted in family, care for employees and pride in the work being done.

“What really stood out,” Harold shared, “was the opportunity to combine my experience with Mint Turbines’ foundation to help take the company to its next level of growth.”

Rather than making sweeping changes, Harold has taken a deliberate approach in his first months in the role.
“The most important objective is to learn before you lead,” he said.

His focus has been on understanding both the operation and the people behind it, how the business functions day to day, and how teams collaborate to deliver results. At the same time, he’s already begun introducing incremental improvements, including enhancements to quality processes.

Mint Turbines is continuing to grow its PT6 lines of business through strengthened OEM partnerships, while also working closely with GE to expand its T700 overhaul capabilities. With a T700 test cell already in place, Mint Turbines is positioned to deepen its role in both sectors.

Beyond operations and growth strategy, one of the biggest surprises for Harold has been the people.

Mint Turbines’ team is a mix of long-tenured employees and newer additions, many of whom are deeply connected within the Stroud community. That sense of familiarity and pride in the work creates a culture that is both tight-knit and welcoming.

“It’s a group that takes pride in what they do…and that matters.”

Beyond the Shop:

For Harold and his family, the transition to Stroud has been positive.

After living in smaller towns before, he appreciates the balance Stroud offers. Local favorites like D’s Diner and nearby restaurants in Cushing have already become favorites, along with the community’s hospitality.

Outside of work, Harold enjoys spending time with his dogs, regularly taking them to the Edmond Dog Park on Sunday afternoons, where a dedicated group of dog owners gathers each week.

Fun fact: in addition to his A&P licenses, he also holds a pilot’s license.

Looking ahead:

As he steps into his role as General Manager, Harold’s priorities are clear: maintain the highest standards of safety, quality and compliance, while continuing to deliver for customers and build strong partnerships.

With his experience, from airline operations to OEM manufacturing, and a leadership philosophy grounded in continuous improvement, Mint Turbines is well-positioned for its next phase of growth.