
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!