"For more than six decades, the Pritchard family has been closely connected to the story of VAC AERO.
In 1959, following the cancellation of Canada's iconic Avro Arrow program, 𝐑𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 turned a moment of uncertainty into opportunity. Drawing on his experience at Orenda Engines, he helped establish what would become VAC AERO International — laying the foundation for a company that would grow into a global leader in solving the toughest material and coating challenges on the most mission-critical components in aerospace and defence. From designing and manufacturing vacuum furnaces to thermal spray and diffused coatings Ross put Vac Aero at the forefront of materials engineering.
Years later, his son 𝐉𝐞𝐟𝐟 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 carried that legacy forward, serving as President from 1998 to 2011 and guiding the company through growth, innovation, and expansion into international markets. From Canada to Poland and India, Jeff charted a course to bring customer delight through engineering execution.
More recently, the third generation of the family joined the journey. 𝐑𝐲𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝, Ross's grandson and Jeff's son. He first came to VAC AERO as an engineering co-op student while studying at the University of Waterloo. He later returned as a Project Engineer, where he quickly became known for his leadership, versatility, and willingness to take on any challenge.
As Michael Miasek, CEO, shared "It has been a pleasure working with Ross, Jeff, and Ryan over the year; each playing a unique role, but together, telling a powerful story of perseverance, hard work, and legacy."
As Dave Farmery, President & COO, shared: "Today is bittersweet as Ryan is leaving Vac Aero and ending the Pritchard generational story. Ryan has chosen to pursue a career in public service as a first responder. His passion to get things done will be greatly missed but his willingness to serve the community makes us very proud . "
Brent Rosart, Director of Engineering, Quality & Pyrometry, added: "Ryan has always been well-rounded, not afraid of any task thrown at him, and he completes the mission. His leadership on the shop floor earned the trust of both management and the operations team."
Ryan, thank you for your contributions to VAC AERO and for continuing a proud family connection to the company.
We wish you every success in this exciting new journey."