Passing of a Legend: Meyer ‘Mike’ Benzakein Helped Develop Some of GE Aerospace’s Most Successful Jet Engines

Meyer “Mike” Benzakein used to attract attention in GE Aerospace meetings for a funny habit: At first glance, he appeared to be sleeping. Young engineers would wonder about his focus — until he spoke up with an incisive question.

“He was actually sharply paying attention,” recalls Mohamed Ali, vice president of engineering for GE Aerospace. “He would say only a few words, but his point was very clear.”