Close up: Michael Derion, Principal Sales Engineering Specialist, Bombardier

Q. What is your role with the Bombardier Customer Experience team? 

A. I am a Principal Sales Engineering Specialist. It’s my job to help facilitate the sales process on technologically and scientifically advanced products. This helps bridge the gap between our aftermarket product development and sales teams to provide them with applied technical knowledge to interact with customers more effectively. I have worked for the company for 27 years.  

Q. What makes you proud to work for Bombardier? 

A. I have been very lucky to have worked closely on most of the Bombardier new aircraft programs, from the CRJ-100 to the Global 7500. I have helped order, build, deliver and qualify a prototype Interim Level C Full Flight Simulator two to three months prior to aircraft type certification, and delivered an ESIM two (2) months prior to the first flight of the Global 7500. My proudest moment came when the Chief Test pilot, while descending the test aircraft following the maiden flight, remarked: “…it flies just like the simulator!” Simulation is such a powerful tool for training and aircraft development. 

Q. What is your favourite thing to do in Montreal? 

A. I love to visit my friends in the Mile-End borough of Montreal. It’s the same area that has delivered many well-known international artists such as Leonard Cohen. I love the people, the smell of the bagel factories, coffee shops, the food and “la joie de vivre.” I always come back home relaxed and happy.