SAFE #: S0000189
Hometown: Locust Grove GA, United States
Home Airport: GA04
Occupation: Aviation Safety Inspector
Education: MS/CIS
Pilot Certificates: ATP AMEL, COM ASEL/ASES, CFI, CFI-I, MEI, AGI
Airplanes Flying/Flown: Own C177RG, DA20/40/42, CE-150/152/172/182/210/310, BE-35/36/55/58. PA-27/28/28R-200/28-235/34/44/60 J3, GA8, M-5/7, 7AC and a few more
Educational Specialty: G1000 and other TAA training
Q & A
What drew you to aviation?: I grew up on the central east coast of Florida during the height of the space exploration. Our house shook everytime a rocket was launched. From my earliest memories, I always wanted to fly.
How long have you been involved in aviation education?: The most recent stretch has been since 2006 when I becam a full time flight instructor. Since August of 2011 I have been an Aviation Safety Inspector.
What's your favorite part of what you do in aviation education?: Watching the transition of a student the "a-ha" moment and then seeing the joy and confidence build as they learn more about flying.
What's your least favorite part of what you do in aviation education?: $$$$$
Do you have a memorable aviation experience you'd like to share?: My first solo cross country was in Germany in 1974. Flying in a C-150 across middle Germany and the scenary was incredible. An experience you can not put words to.
Why did you join SAFE?: I saw an opportunity to support a great organization with ideals and goals that parralled my own.
What would you like to see change in aviation?: Mostly I would like to see the flight instructor as more of a professional than just a stepping stone to build time to get to the airlines.
Any suggestions on how the above might be accomplished?: More recognization of the job a flight instructor does. We do have the Master CFI recognition, but maybe a separation between a time building instructor and one who sees it as a profession.
Who are your role models in aviation?: To many to mention and mentioning one would be a discredit to another.
