TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.
I was born and raised in Indiana, but at 16 years old, I moved to Virginia, where I later attended Virginia Commonwealth University. I worked my way up in the roofing business as a sales agent for a business partner back home in Indiana.
WHAT GOT YOU INTO FLYING?
My father served for 21 years in the Air Force, and a part of his job was loading bombs and missiles in the 810s and F16s. I observed him throughout the years and became fascinated with his aviation background. When I was younger, I’d visit the airbase and occasionally go to air shows, and one of my favorite memories was sitting in a little blue truck at the end of the runway and watching the jets take off. It was thrilling watching the jets pull up at the last second.
WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE AMERICAN FLYERS?
American Flyers has an outstanding reputation for being one of the best flight schools in America. I initially thought of going to another school, United Aviate, but a check airman at United Airlines suggested that American Flyers would be a better fit.
HOW MUCH OUTSIDE STUDYING DID YOU HAVE TO PUT IN DURING YOUR TIME WITH AMERICAN FLYERS?
I basically live at American Flyers, so I get all of my training done here. I assist other students with quizzes, studying, check-ride preparation, and simulation sessions. I’ve formed a community with my schoolmates and have made a lot of friends along the way.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT AT AMERICAN FLYERS?
My most memorable moment at American Flyers has to be when I was flying with my instructor, Antonio, and I had to take off behind Kid Rock in his private jet Challenger 600. Immediately after take-off, we were redirected by the tower and got to see the Falcon 9 launch as well. All in all, that was my best day and moment flying.
LOOKING BACK, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE INTERESTED IN STARTING PILOT TRAINING?
Just go for it. One of my favorite quotes is “Die with memories, not with dreams.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
I’d like to have my tailwheel and seaplane endorsements. I also want to complete CFI training and my multi-engine rating before instructing at American Flyers. I hope to one day become an airline pilot.
IF YOU COULD FLY ANYWHERE, GO TO ANY FLYING DESTINATION, WHERE WOULD IT BE?
Without a doubt, I would fly to French Polynesia because the islands are absolutely breathtaking. I want to see so many parts of the world and figure, why not start big?