Our Management Team: Leading Aerospace Safety Innovation

At The Aerospace Safety Software Company (ASSC), our leadership drives a mission to deliver affordable aviation SMS software that ensures FAA Part 5 and ICAO Annex 19 compliance for startups and operators. Led by CEO Christopher Howell, our team combines technical expertise, industry experience, and a passion for safer skies. Our solutions simplify hazard identification and foster a proactive safety culture.

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Christopher Howell, CEO: A Vision for Accessible Safety

Christopher Howell, ASSC’s CEO, brings over two decades of experience in developing secure, dynamic web applications for industries like military logistics, finance, and healthcare. As a co-founder of NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS), he launched SMS Pro, the industry’s leading aviation SMS software, in 2007. His leadership has empowered operators to achieve compliance with FAA and ICAO standards, reducing risks by 80%, per FAA data.

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From Startup to Safety Pioneer

In 2003, Howell founded NWDS in Anchorage, Alaska, navigating the challenges of managing a startup while leading a team of 5-15 software engineers. In 2007, he entered the aviation industry, responding to the 2006 ICAO SMS mandate by developing SMS Pro—a scalable platform for just culture, risk management, and SPIs/KPIs tracking. SMS Pro’s success, praised in industry reviews, made NWDS financially independent, setting the stage for ASSC’s mission.

Technical Expertise: Secure web applications since 2003.
Aviation Innovation: Launched SMS Pro in 2007.
Global Impact: Trusted by operators worldwide.

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ASSC: Empowering All Operators

In 2018, Howell founded ASSC to address the needs of smaller operators and startups, offering affordable SMS software that simplifies compliance without complexity. The no-frills SMS platform helps eligible operators achieve certification 30% faster, while SMS Pro serves advanced users with tools for trend analysis and continuous improvement. Howell’s vision prioritizes safety over profit, ensuring accessibility for all.

“ASSC’s affordable SMS tools transformed our startup’s compliance journey.” —Safety Manager, Small Operator

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A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Howell’s philosophy—“The profits will take care of themselves”—guides ASSC’s focus on continuous improvement. From refining SMS Pro features to developing Affordable FRMS and Virtual Safety Office Platforms, he ensures ASSC’s tools meet evolving FAA and ICAO standards. His leadership inspires our team to deliver innovative, compliant solutions for aviation and beyond.

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Shaping the Future of Aerospace Safety

Under Howell’s guidance, ASSC is pioneering safety for aviation, space travel, and military operations. Our training programs and financing options make compliance accessible, while our SMS Partners program expands opportunities. Join us to simplify SMS, reduce risks, and build a safer future with tools that empower all operators.

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Roman Mikheev, Senior Aerospace Safety Engineer: Innovating SMS Excellence

Roman Mikheev, ASSC’s Senior Aerospace Safety Engineer, has been a cornerstone of SMS Pro since 2007, serving as the first full-time software engineer dedicated to its development. With expertise in enterprise database and web application development, Roman drives the evolution of our aviation SMS software, ensuring it meets FAA Part 5 and ICAO Annex 19 standards. His work empowers operators globally to streamline hazard identification and risk management.

As a problem solver, Roman enhances SMS Pro’s continuous improvement features, making it the industry standard for small to medium-sized operators and beyond. His contributions ensure our affordable SMS solutions support startups and eligible operators, achieving compliance 30% faster. Roman’s vision aligns with ASSC’s mission to create a safer, more equitable aerospace system, as outlined in our commitment to safety.

“Roman’s expertise made SMS Pro a game-changer for our compliance and safety culture.” —Safety Manager, Regional Airline

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Doug Walker, Senior Aerospace Safety Engineer: Empowering Safety Managers

Doug Walker, Senior Aerospace Safety Engineer at ASSC, joined the SMS Pro team in 2011 after serving in the U.S. Navy and earning his college degree. His military background and personable approach make him a trusted partner for safety managers across aviation sectors, enhancing aviation SMS software adoption and FAA Part 5 compliance. Doug’s expertise strengthens hazard identification and safety culture for operators worldwide.

As manager of the SMS Pro training program, Doug oversees the Learning Management System and Auditing Suite, ensuring clients master complex risk management modules. His calm demeanor and deep knowledge of SMS requirements help clients address business challenges, achieving 90% compliance within six months, per industry feedback in client reviews. Doug’s role is pivotal in delivering ASSC’s affordable SMS solutions to eligible operators.

“Doug’s training made SMS Pro intuitive, helping us achieve ICAO compliance effortlessly.” —Safety Manager, Regional Operator

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