Technical Counselors

The Technical Counselors are here to help you during the construction phases of your project and the flight advisers are available to assist you in planning and becoming ready to make that first flight confidently and successfully. Statistics show that the first 25 hours on a new aircraft are the most critical; however, the same numbers show that those pilots who use the TC and FA programs have significantly fewer problems…their aircraft are ready for them and they are ready for their aircraft.

Your Chapter Technical Counselors provide a focal point for the Chapter 186 Tool Crib. If a tool that you need isn’t listed, ask your TC; he may be able to help you locate it. Also, tell your TC of any tools, fixtures, or jigs that you are willing to share with the other members of the chapter. The tool crib listing is posted in the Members Only section of the web site.

  • Bobbi Boucher 540-220-8138
  • Ray Comley 703-960-6389
  • Rob Brooks 703-851-9513
  • Dick Koehler 703-250-1366
  • Ralph Hoover 540-253-5845
  • George Smith 540-751-2234

    • EAA Headquarters Recommendations for Technical Counselor Visits

    First Vist
    1. Composite “female mold” (assembly of skin type A/C) – before sealing the structure.
    2. Composite “male mold” (built-up type)-before skinning foam, spars, fuselage, etc.
    3. Wood (all) or wood wing–before closure of leading edge and other structurally closed in areas.
    4. Steel Tube–after all welding is done and before covering.
    5. Metal–before closing up structure.
    Second Visit
    1. Composite “female mold”-after engine and landing gear are in
    2. Composite”male mold”-before any priming or painting are done.
    3. Wood (all) or wood wing-before cover.
    4. Metal–after engine and landing gear are in
    Third Visit
    1. Composite”male mold”-after engine and landing gear are in
    2. Wood (all) or wood wing-after engine and landing gear are in
    Fourth Visit
    1. All types…pre-first flight…all assembled—complete and ready for the FAA inspector.
    2. It is suggested that this visit be made within 60 days prior to when the FAA inspector (or DAR) is scheduled to come, but not before that time.
    3. Along about the time of your last Tech inspection, you should be working with one of the Flight Advisers to establish a testing program appropriate for your A/C. Perhaps a fresh tail-dragger checkout or some time in a ‘factory’ plane would help you personally prepare for success.