I've been an active flight instructor since 1984 and I'm available for all ratings in single-engine, multi-engine, and turboprop aircraft. Although I specialize in multi-engine and instrument proficiency, I enjoy working with student pilots at all levels. I'm also available for flight reviews, IPCs, all endorsements and written​/​practical test preparation. My journey began at thirteen when I rode my bike to Aurora Municipal Airport and paid $5 for my first airplane ride. During that flight, the instructor handed me the controls, and I’ve been captivated ever since. To date, I’ve logged over 8,000 flight hours and have assisted countless pilots in advancing their aviation careers. In addition to my flying experience, I dedicated 32 years to the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller and Airspace System Inspection Pilot. While at Chicago Center, I held various staff positions and played a crucial role in training hundreds of air traffic controllers. I also served as a flight check pilot and procedures specialist at the Flight Inspection Field Office in Battle Creek, Michigan, enjoying both aspects of my career before retiring in 2013. Throughout my time with the FAA, I explored various areas of aviation. In 1988, I founded a Midwest-based charter air company. A few years later, I joined the National Aircraft Appraisers Association, becoming a Certified Aircraft Appraiser and Buyer's Agent. By 2004, I helped establish an aircraft lending division for a mid-sized bank in Chicago. Over the years, I have evaluated, purchased, and sold hundreds of private, corporate, and commercial aircraft for individuals, banks, government agencies, and corporations worldwide. I am actively involved in several organizations, including the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators, the Professional Aircraft Appraisal Organization, the Experimental Aircraft Association, the National Association of Flight Instructors, and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. Additionally, I volunteer as a Lead Safety Representative for the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) and serve on the Board of Governors for the Boys and Girls Club of North Central Illinois.

Aircraft Experience (Instructed in)

All Cessna, Beechcraft, Piper, Diamond, Cirrus, and Mooney single-engine and multi-engine aircraft.

Flying At/Near These Airport(s)

KARR – Aurora Municipal Airport (ARR), Sugar Grove, Illinois KDPA – DuPage Airport (DPA), West Chicago, Illinois KDKB – DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport (DKB), DeKalb, Illinois KPWK – Chicago Executive Airport (PWK), Wheeling, Illinois KJOT – Joliet Regional Airport (JOT), Joliet, Illinois KLOT – Lewis University Airport (LOT), Romeoville, Illinois