After nearly 20 years in a successful healthcare career, much of it spent working in the operating room, I made the decision to pursue a lifelong goal of becoming a professional aviator. Aviation has become a true passion and reflects what drives me: continuous learning, challenging myself, and remaining focused on meaningful goals.

My corporate experience, combined with serving as an officer and pilot in the U.S. Air Force, has shaped my approach to leadership, professionalism, and accountability. I bring confidence and discipline to my work while remaining approachable, collaborative, and comfortable working with people from all backgrounds.

Education

Liberty University
BS-Aviation May 1, 2023 - June 1, 2025 I graduated summa cum laude from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science, earning a 4.0 GPA. The program provided a comprehensive foundation in aviation academics, safety, operations, and professional flight training, preparing me for continued growth as a professional pilot.
Michigan State University
BA-Business Marketing August 1, 2001 - June 1, 2005 I graduated from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business with a degree in Marketing. The program provided a strong foundation in business strategy, communication, and market analysis, preparing me for a successful career in the healthcare industry.

Work Experience

RPA Pilot
Michigan Air Force National Guard - As an RPA Pilot with the Michigan Air National Guard, I operate in a demanding aviation environment that requires sound aeronautical decision-making, disciplined checklist use, crew coordination, situational awareness, and effective risk management. These experiences have strengthened the professionalism, judgment, and leadership skills that directly prepare me for a career as a professional pilot.
Certified Flight instructor
Northwestern Michigan College - Present Serve as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) at Northwestern Michigan College, providing flight and ground instruction within an FAA Part 141 training program. Responsible for developing student pilots through structured, safety-focused training while emphasizing aeronautical decision-making, aircraft proficiency, and professional aviation standards.
Certified Flight instructor
Giving Wings Aviation - April 1, 2026 Serve as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) at Giving Wings Aviation, providing personalized flight and ground instruction in an FAA Part 61 training environment. Work with a diverse range of students across varying ages, backgrounds, and experience levels, from career-focused aviators pursuing professional goals to individuals flying for personal enrichment. Tailor instruction to each student while maintaining a strong emphasis on safety, proficiency, and sound aeronautical decision-making.

Highlights

Five Star Leadership Award
June 1, 2015 Selected by my peers from a team of more than 20 professionals to receive the Five-Star Leadership Award, recognizing my leadership, professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to supporting those around me.
Officer of the Quarter
April 1, 2024 Selected as Officer of the Quarter in recognition of my decisive response to an in-flight emergency. The award highlighted my ability to remain composed under pressure, apply sound judgment and attention to detail, and take timely action to protect personnel and equipment while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.

Aircraft Experience

C-172