Aviation Background


Dr. Steven J. Meyers- Chief Scientist 

Dr. Meyers is responsible for all facets of operating DVI Aviation, and over his 28+ career in the Aerospace and Defense industries, he has conducted several hundred failure analysis and aircraft accident investigations. His experiences include airframe and powerplant system design and interface issues, flight and ground testing, human factor analysis of both flight and maintenance operations, and the evaluation of material wear and lubrication (tribology). These investigations have involved complex accident reconstructions, the development of unique/customized test procedures, and interdisciplinary expertise. He also developed and conducts Human Factors based flight reviews and ground school training. These in-depth instructional programs cover cockpit leadership techniques, error management, risk management, human factors, single pilot resource management, and expert based scenario training. Other aviation services include aircraft specific checkouts, flight department audits, safety seminars, and aircraft maintenance.

Curriculum Vitae

  • Aircraft Accident Investigator: Applies scientific methods to accurately reconstruct and explain the circumstances of an accident. Understands the Person-Machine-Environment interface. Adjunct Faculty Member in the Aviation Department of Lewis University, developed and teaches courses pertaining to Aircraft Accident Investigation and Human Factors (flight and maintenance). IL licensed Private Detective.  
  • Pilot Expert: Graduate of National Test Pilot School Technical Pilot Course, with 21+ years of experience test flying aircraft in support of accident investigations. Piloted / instructed in 65+ different types of aircraft ranging from turbojets to gliders. FAA licensed Commercial Pilot (Single-Engine, Multi-Engine, Glider, Seaplane), Instrument, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/MEI).
  • Aircraft Maintenance Expert: 28+ years of experience inspecting, repairing, altering, and maintaining aircraft, engines, and propellers. Factory trained technician on turbine and reciprocating engines. FAA licensed Airframe and Power Plant Mechanic (A&P) with FAA Inspection Authorization (IA). FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME).
  • Material Scientist and Failure Analyst: Evaluated hundreds of failures related to the effects of wear, corrosion, temperature, and mechanical stresses on the performance of materials.Provides practical and comprehensive laboratory testing that is independent and unbiased. Capable of performing a broad range of tests to determine the strength, physical, chemical, and wear properties of metals, coatings, ceramics, composites, and plastics. Access to ASTM qualified test machines, optical microscopes, SEM, FTIR, load cells, and accelerometers.
  • USAF Non-Commissioned Intelligence Officer: Confident public speaking skills with experience in preparing briefings and making recommendations to high-level military commanders.

Expertise:

Aircraft Design and Operation,  Aircraft Performance,  Avionics & Autopilots, Piloting & Training, Turbines/Reciprocating Engines, Major Repairs/Alterations, Human Factors, FAA Regulations & Certification, Accident Investigation, Wreckage Reconstruction, In-Flight Break-Ups, Mid-Air Collisions, Flight Path Reconstruction, Crashworthiness, Loss of Control, System Failures, In-Flight Fires, Cockpit Automation, Mechanical Testing, Material Compatibility, Fracture Analysis, Metal Fatigue, Composite Materials, Mechanical Fasteners, Tribology & Wear Testing, Fretting, Galling & Corrosion, Lubricants, Greases, & Fuels.

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