Inside KF’s Machine Shop: A Q&A with Jeff Ruth on Precision, Problem-Solving, and In-House Expertise
February 13, 2026
At KF Aerospace, success is driven by our deep technical knowledge and tightly integrated capabilities. A critical part of this strength lies in our extensive Shops and Manufacturing team, which enables us to streamline the manufacturing of aerospace parts and components.
To get a closer look at the work being done inside our Machine Shop (a core component of the Shops and Manufacturing Team), we spoke with Jeff Ruth, who shared insights into the team’s role, recent projects, and what makes KF Aerospace unique in the industry.
Q: What does KF’s Shops and Manufacturing Department do?
A: Great question! From manufacturing legacy aircraft parts to solving complex machining challenges, our Shops support a wide range of internal and external needs. We offer Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Components, Machining, Plating, Structures, Interior, Paint, Composite, Upholstery, Heat Treating, Avionics, and Wire Harness capabilities in-house, just to name a few.
We also manufacture parts for Convairs, B727 and B737-200 aircraft, and offer Aircraft On Ground (AOG) capabilities in partnership with Boeing.
A look inside one corner of KF's extensive Shops Department.
Q: What sets KF Aerospace apart from other Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities when it comes to our Machine Shop?
A: One of our biggest advantages is having a full-service, internal machine shop. This gives us control over turnaround times and quality, especially for one-off or custom repair parts. While many MROs have to outsource this type of work, we keep it all in-house to minimize wait periods and mitigate the risks associated with outsourcing. It all comes together to help us deliver exceptional service to our customers.
Our Machine Shop definitely wears a lot of hats. We support the repair processes of all of KF’s internal shops, especially the Landing Gear Shop, which includes grinding both inner and outer surfaces of shock strut components. We also support the Manufacturing Department by performing Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) machining for our global customers. Our Machine Shop is equipped with specialized machinery, including Computer Numical Control (CNC) machines, grinders, and boring mills, allowing us to take on everything from routine maintenance to precision manufacturing.
Jeff Ruth (left) and Graham Allport (right) are ready for another day of highly specialized work in KF’s Machine Shop.
Q: Do you have a favourite project the team has worked on?
A: One project that stands out involved close collaboration with Boeing engineers during a Boeing Cargo Door conversion in our hangars. We were tasked with designing and prototyping an adjustable spot-face tool. After successfully building the prototype, Boeing ordered ten more tools, which were then deployed globally to support similar repairs at other locations. It was incredibly rewarding to contribute our expertise to a solution that had international impact.
This adjustable spot-face tool, designed in-house at KF's YLW base, is now used globally by Boeing.
Q: What’s the best path into a career in aerospace manufacturing?
A: There are lots of ways to get started in this industry! KF’s Shops department has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for entry-level positions or already have specialized training.
As an Approved Training Organization (ATO), we offer the opportunity to get hands-on experience while working towards full certification (even if you have no prior experience). If you’re someone who enjoys working with your hands and has a natural aptitude for tools, our in-house, on-the-job training will set you up for success.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working in the Machine Shop?
A: The variety. No two days are the same, and you never know what’s going to come through the door. Every challenge brings something new to solve, and that keeps the work interesting and rewarding.
To learn more about career opportunities in KF’s Shops department, please visit kfaero.ca/careers. To contact our Shops Sales Team, please email v.sharma@kfaero.ca
