Taylor Vida

I am a dedicated Electronics Reliability Technician with over 25 years of hands-on experience in both military avionics and oilfield electronics. I spent 18 years in the U.S. Coast Guard as an avionics technician and flight mechanic, maintaining and troubleshooting complex systems on MH-60 and MH-65 helicopters. Since retiring, I’ve continued my career in the oil and gas industry, specializing in the testing and environmental screening of rotary steerable tools to ensure they perform reliably in extreme conditions. I take pride in my attention to detail, strong work ethic, and ability to lead and perform under pressure—making sure the tools I work on don’t just function, but thrive where failure isn’t an option. Outside of work, my greatest pride is my family. I’m a proud mom to a strong, smart, and beautiful daughter who is my whole world, and I’m married to a man who’s been my rock through life’s toughest moments. I’m also lucky to have two incredible stepkids who’ve made my life more fulfilling, challenging, and rewarding than I ever imagined. They’ve taught me new kinds of love, patience, and perspective, and together, our blended family has given my life a depth and purpose that goes far beyond the work I do.

I have over 25 years of professional experience in electronics, spanning both military and oilfield environments. I retired from the U.S. Coast Guard as a First Class Petty Officer (E6) after 18 years of service as an Avionics Electrical Technician. During my time in the military, I maintained and repaired complex aircraft systems on MH-60 and MH-65 helicopters, served as a flight mechanic and hoist operator, and led night shift operations as a shop supervisor. I also gained extensive experience in maintenance planning, shop management, and scheduling. I was selected to serve on the Enlisted Flight Examining Board (EFEB), where I trained junior personnel not only in advanced maintenance practices but also in qualifying as aircrew members and flight mechanics. Additionally, I was a certified Quality Assurance Inspector for aircraft maintenance, ensuring compliance with strict aviation standards. After retiring, I transitioned into the oil and gas industry, where I now specialize in electronics testing, troubleshooting, and reliability verification of rotary steerable tools, combining my leadership, precision, and high-pressure experience to ensure tool performance in extreme conditions.

I graduated high school and completed some college before joining the U.S. Coast Guard, where I received formal training in aviation electronics at the Aviation Training Center in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Throughout my military career, I continued to advance my education and technical skills through a variety of specialized training programs. I earned certifications in MH-60 Jayhawk (J and T models) and MH-65 Dolphin (Alpha, Charlie, and Delta model) avionics systems. I completed advanced helicopter rescue school, and attended multiple military “C” schools focused on advanced troubleshooting and system diagnostics. I also received a certification in FAA maintenance data planning and input. Beyond my technical training, I earned a certificate in Leadership and Management and actively served as a certified Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, demonstrating my commitment to both operational excellence and the well-being of those I served alongside.