Our People
As with any successful organization, it is our people who drive our success. At Pilatus Centre Canada our dedicated executive team leads with innovation and excellence.
 | Frank Kelner, ChairmanFrank obtained a commercial pilot’s license at age 18. Commonly referred to as a Canadian aviation pioneer, Frank has accumulated 27,000 flight hours, in both light jets and heavy turbo-props, while owning and operating various aviation companies. Born in Quebec, he is fluent in both French and English. |
 | Robert Arnone, President and CEORobert has 11 years experience in aviation. Robert graduated from Lakehead University, in Thunder Bay, with an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree and later obtained his professional designation of Chartered Accountant. |
 | Steve Davey, Vice PresidentSteve graduated from Confederation College as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. Steve has over 27 years experience in aviation and joined the Kelner Group in 1988. In addition to his superior skills in product support, Steve has an aircraft structures license and is a Transport Canada Ministers Delegate - Maintenance. Steve’s delegation authorizes him to issue a Certificate of Airworthiness - for Import & Export on behalf of Transport Canada. |
 | Manuel Joaquim, Corporate ControllerManuel joined Pilatus Centre Canada in 2000. Graduating from Lakehead University with an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree in 1992, he continued his education and obtained his MA in Economics in 1995 and his Certified Management Accountant designation in 2001. |
 | John Grandell, Director of MaintenanceJohn graduated from Confederation College as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in 1987. John has gained substantial experience throughout many areas of the aviation industry, both in fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft. After a few years with Pilatus Centre Canada, John accepted a teaching position with Confederation College and later returned to take on his current role. |
 | James Nyitrai, Quality Assurance ManagerJames graduated from Confederation College as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. James has over 25 years experience in aviation and joined the Kelner Group in 1992. James is one of the most experienced PC-12 AMEs in the world and continues to be our key person for PC-12 technical support. |
 | Shaun Appell, Parts ManagerShaun joined Pilatus Centre Canada in 2002 with a wide array of experience in inventory management. With a vast knowledge of purchasing and logistics, Shaun is responsible for managing the highest level of inventory outside of the Pilatus factory, and supplies new and exchange parts to PC-12 owners throughout Canada. |
 | Roland Piche, Avionics ManagerRoland graduated top of his class from Canadore College’s Avionics Tech Program and maintains an E class Licence. Roland joined Pilatus Centre Canada in 2000 and currently has 23 years experience in Aviation. In addition to the over 11 years experience with the PC-12, he has accumulated over 8 years experience with the Dash 8 and numerous other types of Aircraft. |
 | Clarence Heyer, Chief PilotClarence is our Chief Pilot and Certified Chief Training Captain. Clarence has accumulated over 13,000 flight hours in his career. Clarence has been with the Kelner Group for over 15 years and is also a Transport Canada Designated Check Pilot. |
