Enstrom Helicopter Corporation’s experimental hangar now bears the name of Jim Bournonville, a long-time employee of Enstrom’s Research and Development department.
Bournonville was born and raised in Menominee, Michigan, and has worked for Enstrom since December 1968. After devoting many years to Enstrom as Head of Manufacturing, Jim went on to support Enstrom’s many R&D projects as Senior Mechanic and Production Supervisor. Since taking that role, Jim’s many designs and innovations have helped grow Enstrom’s reputation. While Bournonville has retired from full-time work, he still keeps his hand in working part-time testing and improving Enstrom’s products.
Enstrom’s President Todd Tetzlaff spent many years working alongside Jim earlier in his career and said at the naming ceremony: “After 55 years on the job, he understands the inner workings of Enstrom better than anyone else. His no-nonsense approach, work ethic and mentorship to Enstrom’s newer employees consistently proves priceless. Jim is technically gifted, and he’s always willing to share his knowledge with anyone who is willing to learn.
“The building dedication ceremony was small and quiet. Jim wouldn’t have had it any other way,” added Tetzlaff, “We surprised him at lunch by bringing his family in to unveil the official signage. I said a few words, we took pictures, and then Jim asked to go right back to work.”
