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After decades of keeping helicopters and their pilots safe in the skies, Mike Broderick earned the Charles E. Taylor Master Mechanic Award. It is the Federal Aviation Administration’s highest honor for aircraft mechanics. But stepping away from the tools didn’t mean retiring from his purpose.
In today’s episode, Mike reflects on his interesting journey from a stint in the U.S. Navy to building a thriving helicopter maintenance business, and now mentoring the next generation of aviation technicians.
He shares hard-won lessons, a few regrets, and why he believes it’s never too late to make a change or embrace a greater calling. He also talks about what he does to keep fit and stay connected with others.
Mike Broderick may have stepped away from turning wrenches, but he’s far from idle in retirement.
After spending a lifetime in helicopter maintenance — including running his own shop with 50 employees and responding to client calls across the globe — Mike is still deeply involved in the aviation industry.
Today, he’s using his decades of experience to educate and mentor others by writing for Helicopter Maintenance magazine. He produces regular columns, including one focused on drones and another titled “The Doc Is In.”
In his columns, Mike highlights industry trends, shares troubleshooting tips, and even interviews innovators bringing new technology to the skies.
Beyond writing, Mike is also an advocate for trade careers, especially in aviation. He’s passionate about helping young people recognize that they don’t need a four-year degree to enjoy a fulfilling, well-paying job.
Whether it’s helicopter repair, plumbing or carpentry, Mike believes older generations must actively mentor and encourage youth to embrace hands-on careers before vital skills disappear.
And when he’s not educating or advocating, you might find Mike bicycling through the Arizona desert or reminiscing about his epic ride across Iowa with 10,000 fellow bikers during the seven-day Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa tour.
With Ireland still on his bucket list and a firm belief that it’s never too late to pursue purpose, Mike offers this encouragement to anyone over 50: “If you’re not satisfied with where you are, then change. You’re not a tree — you can leave.”
Those are wise words from a man who continues to soar, even with his feet on the ground.
People can connect with Mike through email at rotordoc1223 @ icloud.com.
That’s all for this week’s show. If you’d like to start living a more meaningful life, I encourage you to download our free guide to finding purpose, which is available at www.forwardfrom50.com.
I’ll have another inspirational interview on the next episode of the Forward From 50 podcast. Thanks for listening. If you like this show, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.
After closing his business and enduring several painful years of uncertainty regarding what to do with his life, Greg founded Forward From 50 to help men and women over 50 to live more purposeful lives by pursuing things they are passionate about. A Wisconsin native, Greg currently lives in Arizona.