Michael Leighton

Michael Leighton has a strong background in engineering, with experience in a variety of roles and industries. Michael started their career in 1985 as a Facility Engineer at Fiber Materials Inc., where they were responsible for maintaining capital equipment used in aerospace composites production. Michael also contributed to design enhancements and troubleshooting for specialized weaving looms. In 1994, Leighton joined Hussey Seating Company as a Sr. Application Engineer, where they led a team and designed custom components for engineer-to-order applications in telescopic seating. Michael provided field support during installation and prioritized cost-effective, manufacturing-friendly solutions. Leighton then transitioned to Kestrel Aircraft Company in 2011 as a Mechanical Systems Engineer. In this role, they were part of a design team certifying a pressurized single-engine turboprop, with a primary focus on integrating the landing gear system. Leighton later returned to Hussey Seating Company in 2014, serving as a Product Engineering Manager and eventually Director of Product Engineering. Throughout their career, Leighton has demonstrated strong technical skills, leadership, and the ability to successfully contribute to complex engineering projects.

Michael Leighton earned a Master of Engineering degree in Professional Practice from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which they completed from 2002 to 2004. Prior to this, they studied at the University of Maine from 1980 to 1985 and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. In 1992, Michael Leighton also obtained a certification as a Registered Professional Engineer from the State of Maine.