In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, Billy Duren sits down with Matthew Collins, CEO of Heritage Aviation, to explore an inspiring path from frontline service technician to the top of the company. They talk through the real challenges and lessons that come with rising through the ranks, why developing other leaders matters so much, and how authentic leadership plus accountability shape the culture of a business.

Matthew Collins explains what an FBO (Fixed Base Operator) is and how Heritage Aviation delivers critical services for private, commercial, and military aircraft. He stresses the nonnegotiable need for high safety standards and describes how the company invites employees to speak up about mistakes without fear. The conversation draws a clear line between honest mistakes and reckless behavior.

The episode also covers Heritage Aviation's shift to employee ownership, how that change affects culture over time, and why growing the next generation of leaders is essential for lasting success. Matthew Collins offers practical advice for leaders at every stage: the value of executive coaching, how to build a culture where people feel empowered, and a few books that have shaped his thinking.

Key Takeaways


Career Growth: Matthew Collins started at Heritage Aviation as a line tech with no plan to become CEO. A strong work ethic and a willingness to learn opened the doors. 07:10

Learning Leadership: Time in different roles gave him a wider view. It taught him to listen, understand other viewpoints, and keep personal relationships separate from work decisions. 09:06

Developing Future Leaders: Let people peek behind the curtain of leadership roles and give them room to grow before they get the title. 13:58

Safety and Accountability: In aviation, safety comes first. The company asks people to report concerns honestly and draws a distinction between mistakes and dangerous behavior. 25:25

Employee Ownership: Moving from "I work here" to "we own this place" takes time and education. Open communication and shared values help everyone feel responsible for the company's success. 29:13

Empowerment with Boundaries: New leaders need freedom to decide and sometimes fail, as long as the choices stay safe, ethical, and the consequences stay acceptable. That is how they gain real experience. 35:05

The Role of Executive Coaching: Honest feedback and self-awareness drive leadership growth. Matthew Collins recommends a coach who will challenge you and push for genuine improvement. 40:33

Recommended Books: Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin and The Way I Heard It by Mike Rowe for lessons in leadership and perspective. 43:53

Quotable Moments

"People have been watching you for a lot longer than you realize."

"Accountability isn't how I respond if something happens and I get caught. Accountability happens when you make the decision to do whatever you're going to do."

Show Overview

00:00 Explaining Heritage Aviation Services

03:41 Meeting celebrities in aviation

09:06 Journey to Becoming CEO

11:28 Perception vs. Reality in Leadership

14:53 Leadership training and development insights

19:47 Nurturing unique leadership qualities

20:54 Authentic leadership and teaching

25:25 Promoting a Culture of Safety

30:04 Open-book management and employee ownership

31:52 Balancing empowerment and decision-making

36:06 Coaching and developing young leaders

40:33 Starting Executive Coaching Journey

42:47 Discussing executive coaching styles

46:19 Podcast outro and contact info