30-Plus Years of Aviation Excellence: Military Precision Meets Civilian Expertise
With five decades of combined aviation experience spanning military airborne avionics and civilian regulatory compliance, I bring a unique perspective that bridges the gap between military-grade standards and civilian aviation requirements.
As an FAA Electronic Engineer specializing in private sector aviation systems, with advanced degrees in information systems and cybersecurity, I represent the rare combination of hands-on technical expertise, regulatory authority, and cutting-edge digital knowledge that today's aviation industry desperately needs.

Why Aviation Relations Exists
After three decades in aviation—maintaining military aircraft avionics, troubleshooting airport ground systems, and serving as an Aviation Compliance Expert with a Regulatory Enforcement Background—I repeatedly witnessed the same challenge: aviation professionals working in isolation, struggling with complex problems that others had already solved.
I saw talented technicians spend days troubleshooting issues I'd encountered years before. Airport managers are making costly compliance mistakes because Parts 77, 139, and 171 intersect in ways that no single manual explains. Vendors are creating excellent equipment, but they are unable to connect with the professionals who need it most.
Aviation Relations was born from a simple belief: When aviation professionals share knowledge and connect across sectors, everyone benefits—safer operations, better careers, and a stronger industry.
Today, we're building the definitive platform where airport managers, technicians, and vendors come together to solve challenges, share expertise, and advance aviation excellence through collaborative learning and expert guidance.
Meet Your Aviation Expert: Teddy
The Journey:
Military Airborne Avionics: Where Precision and Reliability Matter Most.
My aviation journey began with 20 years of military service, where I specialized in airborne avionics systems for cargo aircraft. This foundational experience provided me with deep expertise in:
Advanced navigation and communication systems
High-reliability equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
Mission-critical system integration and testing
Complex multi-system coordination and emergency response
While working on military cargo jets, I gained a thorough understanding of how aviation systems must perform flawlessly under the most demanding conditions. These lessons have proven invaluable when applied to civilian aviation operations.
FAA Leadership: From Field Technician to Program Manager
Transitioning from military to civilian aviation, I spent over 30 years mastering every aspect of airport ground systems and regulatory compliance:
Field Experience:
Airport lighting systems installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Ground-based navigation aids (ILS, VOR, DME) technical operations
Electrical infrastructure design and implementation
Emergency response procedures and system recovery
Regulatory Expertise:
Current FAA Engineer and Program Manager
Deep knowledge of Parts 77, 139, and 171 regulations
Cross-regulation compliance and intersection analysis
Enforcement perspective combined with operational understanding
Unique Perspective:
I've crawled through electrical vaults at 2 AM fixing runway lighting, and I've written the compliance policies that govern those same systems. This dual perspective - seeing aviation from both the wrench-turning and rule-making sides - gives me insights that purely academic or purely operational experts don't have.
Bridging Aviation Tradition with Digital Innovation
Recognizing that aviation's future lies in digital transformation and cybersecurity, I pursued advanced education in information systems
Academic Credentials:
Engineering School
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS)
Master's Degree in Information Technology (MSIT)
Ongoing cybersecurity certification and training
Digital Thought Leadership:
Forward-thinking approach to integrating new technologies with compliance requirements using digital transformation
Why This Matters:
As aviation systems become increasingly digital and interconnected, the industry faces new challenges at the intersection of technology and compliance. I am in a unique position to help aviation professionals navigate these emerging complexities, leveraging both technical expertise and regulatory insight.
The mission
Today, I leverage this comprehensive experience to help aviation professionals like you navigate complex technical challenges, multi-part compliance requirements, and career advancement opportunities. Whether you're troubleshooting a navigation aid at midnight or planning a major airport upgrade, I've likely faced similar challenges and can guide you to successful solutions.
Sharing three plus Decades of Hard-Won Knowledge
Aviation Relations exists because compliance shouldn't be a guessing game, and technical challenges shouldn't keep you awake at night wondering if you're doing things right.
Our Approach:
Practical guidance based on real-world experience, not academic theory
Clear explanations that bridge technical complexity and regulatory requirements
Training and resources are designed for working professionals with limited time
Community-driven learning where experienced professionals support each other
Who We Serve:
Airport ground systems technicians seeking reliable troubleshooting guidance
Airport operations managers navigating compliance requirements
Equipment vendors working with specialized aviation markets
Anyone responsible for the safe, compliant operation of airport infrastructure
The Difference: While many consultants offer theoretical knowledge or narrow specialization, Aviation Relations provides a comprehensive perspective that comes from viewing aviation from every angle - including military precision, field operations, regulatory oversight, and digital innovation.
CREDENTIALS & RECOGNITION
Experience
🚁 20 Years Military Airborne Avionics
⚡ 30 Years Airport Ground Systems
🏛️ Aviation regulatory professional - Specializing in private sector compliance challenges
Education
🎓 Engineering School
🎓 Master's Degree Information Technology (MSIT)
💻 Bachelor's Computer Information Systems (CIS)
🔒 Cybersecurity Training & Certifications
📚 Continuous Professional Development
Expertise Areas
📡 Navigation Aids (ILS, VOR, DME)
💡 Airport Lighting Systems
⚡ Electrical Infrastructure
📋 Multi-Part FAA Compliance
🔐 Learning Aviation Cybersecurity
Comprehensive Multi-Part Regulatory Expertise
We specialize in the intersections where aviation challenges become complex:
Regulatory Mastery
FAA Parts Coverage:
Part 77: Obstruction standards and airspace protection
Part 139: Airport certification and operations
Part 171: Non-federal navigation facilities
"Most importantly, we understand how these parts interact—because your runway lighting project isn't just Part 139; it's also Parts 77, 171, and possibly."
Technical Systems Excellence
Airport Lighting: Lighted aids
Navigation Aids: ILS, VOR, DME, and GPS systems
Electrical Infrastructure: Power distribution and backup systems
Ground Support Equipment: Maintenance and compliance
Emergency Systems: Critical infrastructure and procedures
Professional Development
Career advancement strategies for technicians
Compliance training for organizations
Leadership development for aviation professionals
Technical skill enhancement programs
Supporting Every Aviation Professional
Airport Ground Systems Technicians: You keep airports operational 24/7. We provide the technical guidance, troubleshooting support, and career development resources you need to excel in your critical role.
Airport Management & Operations: You balance safety, compliance, and efficiency on a daily basis. We offer the regulatory expertise, operational insights, and strategic guidance to help you make confident decisions.
Equipment Vendors & Service Providers: You develop solutions for aviation challenges. We connect you with the professionals who need your innovations while providing market insights and compliance expertise.
Value-First, Safety-Always Philosophy
How We're Different:
Expert-Verified Content: Every piece of guidance is filtered through 30 years of experience and current regulatory requirements. No guesswork, no outdated information—just reliable expertise you can trust.
Practical Application Focus: We don't just explain regulations; we show you how to implement them. Real-world scenarios, proven troubleshooting methods, and practical solutions that work in the field.
Community-Driven Learning: Connect with peers facing similar challenges. Share experiences, learn from others' solutions, and build professional relationships that advance your career.
Continuous Support: From free resources to premium consulting, we're here at every stage of your professional journey. Quick questions, complex projects, or career transitions—we've got you covered.
The Authority You Can Trust
✈️ Unmatched Experience: 30 years across military, civilian, and regulatory aviation—a perspective no single-sector expert can provide
📋 Multi-Part Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of how FAA regulations intersect—critical for real-world compliance
🎯 Proven Results: Hundreds of successful troubleshooting solutions, compliance strategies, and career advancements
🤝 Independent Perspective No equipment bias, no regulatory agenda—just honest, practical guidance for your success
⚡ Current & Relevant Active in aviation today, not retired yesterday—understanding modern challenges and solutions
🛡️ Safety-First Always Every recommendation prioritizes safety because in aviation, there's no other acceptable standard
Become Part of Aviation's Future
Aviation Relations isn't just a platform—it's a movement to transform how aviation professionals learn, connect, and succeed. Whether you're a seasoned technician, an airport manager navigating compliance, or a vendor seeking authentic connections, you belong here.
Together, we're:
Preserving decades of technical knowledge for the next generation
Creating collaborative solutions to industry-wide challenges
Building careers while advancing aviation safety and efficiency
Establishing the definitive resource for aviation excellence
Ready to Get Expert Aviation Guidance?
Download Our Free Guide
Master FAA Parts Parts 77, 139, 171, with our comprehensive guide
Join Our Professional Academy
Connect, learn, and grow with your aviation peers
Schedule a Consultation.
Get personalized guidance for your specific challenges
In aviation, we never stop learning. Let's learn together.
30+ Years of combined Aviation Experience
FAA Electronic Engineer - Private Sector Consulting
Military Aviation Experience
Multi-Part Compliance Expert
Whether you need immediate answers to technical challenges, want to join a community of aviation professionals, or are looking for comprehensive compliance training, Aviation Relations provides the authoritative guidance you can trust.
Three Ways to Get Started:
Join US
CONTACT AVIATION RELATIONS
General Inquiries: info@aviationrelations.com
Phone: 405-479-9821
Edmond, Oklahoma
© 2024. All rights reserved.
Connect with Teddy:
📧 Email: teddy@aviationrelations.com
💼 Professional: coming soon
🏢 Current Role: Aviation regulatory professional and engineer - Specializing in private sector compliance challenges
Need to know:
The views and guidance provided through Aviation Relations consulting services represent the professional opinion and experience of Teddy Cooper as an individual consultant and do not represent official FAA policy, positions, or endorsements. All consultation services are provided in a personal capacity and are separate from any official FAA duties or responsibilities.