About 3S
The Experts in Design Engineering and Certification
A wholly owned subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), 3S Engineering and 3S Certification is based in Wichita, Kansas. Known as the “Air Capital of the World” due to the city’s history as the hub of United States aircraft production, our central, convenient location has the added benefit of many accomplished aircraft professionals who call the area home.
The team at 3S is highly experienced and efficient in providing engineering design and compliance data development as well as Unit Member (UM) support for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approvals. Additionally, as an FAA designated Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program, we provide Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for most aircraft equipment installations.
About Sierra Nevada Corporation
Sierra Nevada Corporation delivers customer-focused technologies and best-of-breed systems integrations in the aerospace and defense sectors. Applications span navigation/guidance, communications, electronic warfare and threat detection, cybersecurity, infrastructure protection and commercial space.
What Sets 3S Apart
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Standards
The world of aviation revolves around rapidly changing standards. We put forth a continuing effort in staying abreast of aerospace standards. 3S has a broad experience ranging from the basic design standards to industry-specific standards put forth in subject-specific documents.
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Service
As an FAA authorized Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program for STCs, 3S provides a level of service unsurpassed in the industry today. From engineering design and system integration to documentation and certification, 3S is committed to providing professional technical guidance and exceptional customer service.
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Support
We go the extra mile to support clients through the design and implementation of our services. 3S provides a high quality of service and faster turnaround time on project completion than our competitors. Whether it’s onsite support or complete program management, our staff is at the vanguard of aviation engineering and certification.
Our Leadership
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30+ Years Industry ExperienceWes Klinkerman joined 3S in 2023 and stepped into the role of Lead Administrator for the ODA. He is the primary source for project specific guidance and serves as a designated representative of the FAA.
Wes brought over 30 years of aviation experience with him from engineering, certification, and production quality roles.
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33+ Years Industry Experience3S provides constant opportunity to get involved in new efforts and add value, where your voice is always heard. The supportive environment fostered by the leadership team creates an exciting and dynamic place to work.
With 3S since 2017, Steve Talman has an aeronautical engineering degree from Bedford College in Bedford, United Kingdom and decades of industry experience that has included various engineering leadership positions with Beechcraft (Textron Aviation).
At 3S, Steve is responsible for the coordination and oversight of the engineering design team as well as supporting active design programs at the 3S headquarters in Wichita and other programs at our parent company, Sierra Nevada Corporation. He is also responsible for providing engineering technical guidance for new business pursuits and proposal efforts.
Steve is an avid scuba diver and world traveler who is always looking for the next adventure!
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25+ Years Industry Experience3S is uniquely positioned to fill a need in the aviation community. As an ODA, we can be the shortest path to an STC. As a subsidiary located in Wichita, Kansas, we can be nimble and scalable in our solutions while leveraging, when needed, the resources of our parent company.
Brian Hensley joined 3S in 2018 as our general manager. His role includes leading 3S into continued sustainable growth by providing our customers with efficient and cost-effective engineering and certification solutions.
Brian draws on more than 25 years of industry experience, including as a program manager and a chief engineer at Beechcraft (Textron Aviation) in Special Missions. Additionally, he has a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in business administration.
Brian enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He is passionate about supporting Habitat for Humanity through monetary donations and volunteering.
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25+ Years Industry ExperienceI enjoy working with our customers, and I'm excited to show them how 3S can provide the results they're looking for. With 3S's capabilities as an ODA and with our engineering services, we're in a position to bring our customers’ products to the marketplace quickly and efficiently.
Scott joined 3S as our business development manager in 2023. His role includes demonstrating to customers the value proposition of an ODA and showing them why 3S can be a discriminator for them in the marketplace.
Scott draws on his experience in various management positions, mostly as a program manager for commercial, special mission and military programs across multiple platforms with domestic and international customers.
Scott enjoys spending time with his family and traveling.
