Max Starkman

SAFE #: S0005651

Website: http://maxstarkman.com

Hometown: Land O Lakes FL, United States

Home Airport: KZPH

Occupation: CFI and part time Small Business

Education: Finance and Economics, MBA

Pilot Certificates: Private, Instrument, Advanced Ground Instructor, CFI

Airplanes Flying/Flown: Cessna, Piper, Grumman, Bonanza, RV

Educational Specialty: Ground Instruction

Q & A

What drew you to aviation?: Since I was a little kid I loved airplanes. My favorite part of the family vacation was the airplane trip to and from our destination. I love that aviation allows us to see the world from a different perspective. I also enjoy the technical challenge and rewarding skill set developed by training.

How long have you been involved in aviation education?: I have been involved in aviation education for over 1 year.

What's your favorite part of what you do in aviation education?: My favorite part of aviation education is training current and potential pilots and seeing their confidence build.

What's your least favorite part of what you do in aviation education?: My least favorite part of aviation education is seeing a student become frustrated and say that they feel like giving up when I know they have the potential to be successful.

Do you have a memorable aviation experience you'd like to share?: I took my club's airplane to see the solar eclipse in Alliance, NE. I got to see the eclipse and enjoy a day with pilots of all kinds.

Why did you join SAFE?: I enjoy the articles/newsletters the association releases. I also find their presentations helpful.

What would you like to see change in aviation?: I would like the barriers to entry to be lower so that more people can enjoy flight. I believe in finding ways to make training approachable to more people. I would like to see more people have access to affordable airplanes and qualified instructors to keep GA alive and healthy.

Any suggestions on how the above might be accomplished?: Flying clubs are an effective tool to match pilots with affordable airplanes and quality instructors. I believe in growing the availability of clubs with different missions to satisfy the needs of individual pilots.

Any accomplishments in, or noteworthy contributions to aviation and/or aviation education you'd like to mention?: Introducing a colleague to aviation and then seeing them pursue and obtain his private certificate.

Who are your role models in aviation?: My initial CFI, and a long list of GA and professional pilots that emphasize safe and fun flying.

Anything else you'd like to add?: Glad to be part of SAFE!