Leadership Transition at PK Floats as Founder Steps Down
PK Floats, a distinguished seaplane float manufacturer, has seen a shift in leadership as its long-standing owner, Patrick McGowan, retires. The 70-year-old company has been sold to Josh Michaud, who has assumed the role of president. This significant change was announced on April 9, 2026.
Based in Lincoln, Maine, PK Floats has earned a reputation over its seven-decade history for crafting robust and reliable aluminum seaplane floats. The company boasts the production of over 1,500 sets of aircraft floats, serving a diverse range of clients including commercial operators, law enforcement agencies, and recreational pilots across North America and beyond.
McGowan steered the company through a substantial growth phase after acquiring it in 2018 with a small investment group, thereby returning it to U.S. ownership. Under his stewardship, PK Floats launched several innovative products for the general aviation community. These include:
- The Super Skywagon project
- Expanded aircraft brokerage services
The company is renowned for its hand-built aluminum floats, characterized by their deep-V hull design, robust construction, and durability. PK Floats currently employs 15 full and part-time staff and collaborates with several small Maine companies for parts production and support.
Source: https://generalaviationnews.com/2026/04/09/pk-floats-leadership-transition/
