Daniel Vasquez
Daniel Vasquez is a Colombian pilot who combines his passion for aviation with his love for sound, working internationally as a sound editor and mixer for film and TV. He earned his private pilot certificate in 2019 in Florida, followed by a commercial pilot license in his home country, along with an FAA Advanced Ground Instructor certificate. In the past couple of years, Daniel ventured into aerobatics, training in Primary and Sportsman categories and competing in his first contest in 2023. Inspired by his contest experience, he aims to also contribute to aerobatic competition as a judge, striving for fairness, objectivity, and cooperation. Becoming an aerobatic judge will not only enhance his knowledge and experience but also allow him to better serve the aviation community.
Winter 2023, Aerobatic Judge Certificate
Tyler Gray
Tyler Gray, 18, is a freshman at Ventura Community College, majoring in Agriculture Business. His fascination with aviation began during childhood visits to the Santa Paula Airport with his dad. Attending numerous airshows and aviation events further fueled his passion. Following his high school graduation, Tyler took his first intro flight at CP Aviation and was hooked. He secured a position as a line boy at the flight school and began working on obtaining his pilot’s license there. Tyler aspires to become a commercial pilot and aims to inspire younger generations to pursue aviation.
Winter 2023, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Andy Ayala
Andy, 18 years old, started his aviation journey at age 17. Ever since he was a child, he’s dreamed of becoming an airline pilot. As someone who lives 3 miles away from LAX, watching the airplanes soar past his house helps him forget about the violence surrounding his neighborhood. Andy’s dream is to fly the biggest and most sophisticated fixed-wing aircraft across the globe. His passion for aviation and education has led him to obtain a 98% on his Private Pilot Written exam and a 4.0 GPA in his first semester in college. Andy is pursuing a degree in Aviation at El Camino College to advance his career and education. He also seeks to change the world by using his pilot travel privileges to voyage the globe to assist disadvantaged families. Andy’s experience volunteering at LAX, Honduras, and at El Camino has inspired this motive.
Fall 2023, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Winter 2022, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Rigel Sprague
Rigel Sprague is a freshman at Yucaipa High School. When he was young, he went on his first plane ride and instantly fell in love with flight. His dad and grandfather both have pilot licenses and share his enthusiasm for flying. He took his first glider ride at Crystalaire and knew he would pursue flying. Rigel's goal is to get his commercial license. Apart from flying, Rigel plays the violin and takes part in orchestra.
Fall 2023, Glider to Solo
Payton Fritz
Payton Fritz, 26, is an Army Blackhawk pilot based in Oahu, Hawaii. He grew up in Latin America and Germany and was exposed to various aviation communities including the Guatemalan Air Force and his German grandfather’s glider club. After high school he accepted an Army ROTC scholarship to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, majoring in Aeronautics with minors in Meteorology and Homeland Security. Following graduation, he attended Army Flight School at Fort Rucker earning a type rating on the UH-60M. Payton’s first duty station is Wheeler Army Airfield in Hawaii. His passion for aviation led him to acquire his fixed-wing PPL. Payton wants to use this scholarship to broaden his skills with different aircraft and one day hopes to earn his CFI to help develop other pilots.
Fall 2023, Tail-wheel Endorsement
Jacob McAleavey
Jacob McAleavey, 25, is a CFI/CFII/MEI and classically trained Double Bassist from Pittsburgh, PA. Growing up near the AGC airport, he dreamt of becoming a pilot his entire life. Graduating from Pittsburgh CAPA and Duquesne University majoring in Music Performance, he was focused on being a Double Bassist. At 19, he joined a local EAA chapter, and took lessons in a 1946 Aeronca Champion. After which, he realized that his love for aviation was equal to his love for music. At 21, he enrolled and graduated from CCAC with an Associate’s in Aviation Technology. He is currently pursuing a first officer position with a regional airline and can be found performing bass in various symphonies around Pittsburgh and with the Sarasota Opera. Jacob wants to use this scholarship to enhance his instruction and safety in teaching tailwheel, seaplanes, and potentially aerobatics one day.
Summer 2023, Upset Recovery/Spin Training/Introduction to Aerobatics
Robert Buniva
Robert is 21 and currently works as CFI/ CFII in Conroe, Texas, while finishing his bachelor's degree at Texas A&M Central. Growing up, Robert was introduced to aviation through his father, who is a career airline pilot. It was then that Robert set his sights on making a life out of aviation, and he will proudly tell you that he never looked back. For the past five years, Robert has been an active member of the Commemorative Air Force, where he most recently volunteered as a Load Master on the “Texas Raiders” B-17G. Going forward into his career, Robert hopes to earn a pilot slot in the U.S. Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve, where he can proudly serve his country while pursuing a career in the airlines.
Summer 2023, Tailwheel Endorsement
Gabriela Palomino
Gabriela Palomino is 26 and lives in California. Straight out of high school she went into the Auto Body Industry. After a few years of being an Auto Painter, she realized she wasn’t feeling fulfilled, and wanted to do something more with her life. She always loved aviation, but it seemed like a far-fetched dream until she took a serious look into what it takes to become a pilot. Once she realized it was attainable, she started training in May 2022, earned her PPL in January 2023 and is now pursuing an IFR. Gabi enjoys flying and is excited to see where it takes her. Her aspirations are to fly for the military and possibly fire attack further down the line with much more experience. She is excited to see how this training will affect her knowledge and skills as well as her own confidence as a pilot.
Spring 2023, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Introduction to Aerobatics
Hunter McCann
Hunter McCann is a CFI/CFII, Olympic weightlifter and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner. Graduating Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a BS in exercise and wellness and an AS in aviation science from Orange Coast College. Hunter first fell in love with aviation at a young age when he and his father, who is also an airline pilot, attended a local airshow. Watching the aerobatic performance on display sparked a dream to one day compete in aerobatics and strive to work for a major airline. Currently residing in sunny Orange County California, Hunter spends his time flight instructing out of KSNA; teaching, guiding and inspiring new pilots with a 100% pass rate on his students' check rides. He plans to use this valuable tailwheel training experience to improve the safety of general aviation and enhance his teaching abilities.
Spring 2023, Tailwheel Endorsement
Grayson Bertaina
Grayson is a flight instructor, commercial pilot, and MIT Aerospace Engineering student living in Cambridge, MA. A Daytona Beach native, he started flying through Civil Air Patrol as a cadet at the age of 16. He earned his PPL and instrument with assistance from CAP before earning his CPL and CFI certificates at the age of 18. Now 19, Grayson holds CFII and CPL AMEL certificates and seeks to further his aviation experience through spin training and exposure to acrobatics. He serves on the MIT Flying Club's executive board, where he started a scholarship program for other students and works to share his passion for aviation in his community. Grayson is also a cadet in AFROTC seeking a pilot slot and commission in the USAF. He is happiest when flying and teaching others - a day in the air is a success!
Spring 2023, Tailwheel Endorsement
Summer 2022 - Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Alexandra Brandt
Alexandra “Lexie” Brandt knew she wanted to become a pilot from the early age of four. Sixteen years later her dream came true when she moved halfway across the globe from Finland to start her pilot training in Florida. After gaining her wings in the US, Lexie moved to Southern Norway where she worked as a Flight Instructor for nearly three years. Currently Lexie is working as a Range Safety Officer and Pilot at Andoya Space, facilitating rocket launches and weapons testing north of the Arctic Circle. She is also currently in her second year of a master’s degree in Aviation Science at the Arctic University of Tromso and is working as a Board Member and Marketing Chair for Women in Aviation Scandinavia. Lexie is very interested in aerobatics and aims to start competing nationally once she has completed her tail-wheel and aerobatics endorsements.
Summer 2021, Tailwheel Endorsement
Fall 2022, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Ivan Altunin
Ivan Altunin is a student at the University of California Berkeley majoring in Astrophysics. At age 20, he holds a glider CFI certificate and loves teaching students - finding it extremely fulfilling and enjoyable. He also holds a ASEL PPL and hopes that the skills gained from this tailwheel trailing will serve him well as he goes on to pursue his powered CFI. Ivan was heavily involved in the Civil Air Patrol in his youth, without which his flight training would not have been. He is passionate about giving back, volunteering in multiple capacities, including running the Northern NV glider program. After college, Ivan plans to pursue an advanced degree while getting more exposure to all the exciting corners of aviation so that he may open his options to many career opportunities, including test pilot.
Fall 2022, Tailwheel Endorsement
Caroline Koll
Caroline is a flight instructor, commercial pilot, and author based in Johannesburg, South Africa. She holds an Honours degree in Political Science and International Relations, and followed a successful career as a professional athlete in the sport of Triathlon. Exposure to aviation came later life, but she became instantly attracted to the limitless challenges, and opportunities for learning to be found in the sky. Armed with an incurable desire to inspire others to challenge themselves, she thrives on seeing individual growth attributed to the act of flight. She has immersed herself in finding ways of improving safety through innovative skills training in General Aviation, and hopes to make a significant impact in reducing the accident rate. On a personal level, she measures success by the difference made in the lives of others.
Spring 2022, Tailwheel Endorsement and Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Ashley Fitzsimmons
Ashley’s passion for flying was inspired at an early age while growing up in Alaska with her dad, an air traffic controller. She took her first flight from the right seat of the cockpit at twelve and was instantly hooked! Her enthusiasm continued to grow as she traveled Alaska while working as a field technician for the Alaska Department of Fish & Game. Ashley began her journey towards a career in aviation in 2017 when she returned to school to earn her A&P certificates at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She now works as an A&P in Cold Bay, Alaska, and has continued her path in aviation by earning her private pilot certificate this year. She plans to obtain an instrument rating next year, followed by her commercial and multi-engine ratings.
Fall 2021, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro To Aerobatics
Aaron Boeker
Aaron Boeker is 13 years old and won our latest scholarship, “Solo a Glider Before an Airplane.” Aaron became interested in aviation after watching his brother, Carter, learn to fly gliders at the glider airport with the Soaring Society of America. Aaron started taking lessons as well, and he began considering career possibilities for his future. Aaron’s goal is to become an international pilot in South America or Alaska.
Apart from his aviation pursuits, Aaron also plays and teaches music lessons. He regularly plays guitar, piano, drums, violin, and viola. Aaron plays violin with the West Coast Classical Jazz Band and Orchestra.
In Aaron’s spare time, he participates in the local 4-H club of the Acton-Agua Dulce area. He currently holds the office of Club Secretary. As a club member, Aaron also rides a horse, practices public speaking, and does shooting sports.
Fall 2021, Glider To Solo
Isabella Capuano
Bella is in her Junior year at Baylor University studying Aviation Science and minoring in Environmental Science. Growing up as a Navy brat, Bella traveled the world at a young age which sparked her love for traveling and especially being on airplanes. Her passion for studying aviation began as a sophomore in high school and since then she has earned her Private, Instrument, Commercial, and is working on CFI. Her goal is to become an airline pilot while also remaining involved in General Aviation. One of Bella’s favorite ways to put her skills to use is taking friends and family up for their first GA flight and seeing the excitement in their eyes on takeoff. Bella is thrilled to be a Figure 1 scholarship recipient and learn how to fly tailwheel airplane.
Summer 2021, Tailwheel Endorsement
Wayne Stimson
Wayne is a full-time flight instructor based in Lima, Peru. Influenced by his father, he studied his PPL and CPL licenses in California before returning to Peru to continue his career in aviation. Wayne has been working for several years as CFI/CFII/MEI in Peru, where he has supported students from all over the world to pursue their aviation goals. Wayne applied for the Figure 1 Foundation scholarship, as there are no opportunities to experience a spin endorsement at present in Peru. He wants to use the knowledge gained to support his students and other pilots in the country. In the future, he wishes to design and implement a recovery/spin course for pilots and make it a required endorsement when becoming a pilot in Peru. When he is not flying, Wayne enjoys entrepreneurial pursuits, outdoor adventures, and motorcycle rides over the Andes.
Spring 2021, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Sam Semere
Sam, who currently resides a few miles from the nation’s capital, is an avid aviator and passionate about all things aviation. He currently instructs at a renowned flight school on the East Coast as a CFI & CFII. Sam holds a commercial multi-engine land rating and is well on his way to attaining an ATP at a regional carrier this year. In addition to teaching and conducting discovery flights, he is strongly committed to the reduction of GA accidents and growing a prudent flying cohort. Sam grew up in the mountainous capitals of Eastern Africa until 12 years of age before moving to the US. He deeply enjoys traveling and experiencing cultures through food and learning languages. The B777, F-22 & SR71 are a few of his favorite aircraft. Sam wishes to fly as many different aircraft as possible in his career.
Spring 2021, Tailwheel Endorsement
Mona Creta
Mona never saw aviation coming. She grew up with zero exposure to aviation and went on to attain her Bachelor’s degree from Cal State Los Angeles in Business with an emphasis in Marketing Management. Half way through her continued studies in interior architectural design, she by chance took up a ‘side job’ at the airport working for an international airline. Her fascination and curiosity led her down the road to learning all about commercial, cargo and private aviation. Somewhere between coordinating charter trips and helping launch a regional airline station she found her way into the cockpit and to her true heart’s calling. She is now a career-changer and private pilot student aspiring to become a commercial pilot. Her greatest goal of all is to help promote aviation among young children and encourage other career-changers to go after their greatest dreams.
Winter 2020, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Jeff Lombardo
Jeff is a commercial pilot and forest ecologist based in Northern Arizona. The world of general aviation opened up to him on a subzero-degree day in early 2017 in Northeast Minnesota, riding backseat in a Cessna 172 while conducting aerial spotting of radio-collared moose. Having spent an abundance of time in remote areas as a forester, wildland firefighter, gravel cyclist, and long-distance runner, he has a passion for cross country mountain flying and visiting the more obscure airfields which make fantastic starting points for any outdoor adventure. As a beneficiary of the generosity and mentorship of his local pilot community, Jeff takes every opportunity to act as an ambassador for aviation and has taken numerous friends and acquaintances on their first general aviation flights. He also enjoys participating in his local flying club, and looks forward to working as a flight instructor, owning an aircraft, and building aerobatic flying skills.
Fall 2020, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Leon Burner
Born and raised in Austria, Leon is a 20 year old instrument rated commercial pilot. His fascination of aviation is due to his yearly international visits to his family in Texas and therefore connecting the joy of seeing loved ones with aviation at a very early age. This led to him becoming a member and employee of a local flying club in Austria. Leon earned his glider license before moving to the United States, at 18 years old, to pursue his goal of becoming an airline pilot. He hopes to fly those exact cross-Atlantic routes, connecting other families with their loved ones. Currently, Leon is working towards earning his certified flight instructor license to help others turn their fascination of aviation into a practicable passion.
Fall 2020, Tailwheel Endorsement
Mike Andrews
Mike, age 22, is a Vancouver Island based Flight Instructor and Charter Pilot. He began his flying journey at age 12 by joining the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, working towards and receiving both his Glider Pilot License and Private Pilot license. He has always been passionate about giving back to the aviation community by spreading the joy of flight as far as he can and by helping others achieve their aspirations. Mike has a wide variety of prevailing interests in the aviation industry including continuance of instructing, mountain soaring, float and bush flying, aerial and aviation photography, aerobatic flying, and overall promotion of the industry.
Summer 2020, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Summer 2019, Tailwheel Endorsement
Sarah Reese
Sarah Reese is a 22-year-old private pilot from Northern California who has been flying with her father since she was 4. Inspired by him and wanting to further share their passion for flight, she decided to pursue her private pilot license in 2019. She quickly realized it was her destiny and now she is on a career track of flight instructor, airline transport pilot, and designated pilot examiner. In her free time, she loves to volunteer with and participate in any aviation event or organization that she possibly can, and is currently working on a YouTube channel to educate and inspire others. Sarah is very excited to become a Tailwheel pilot just like her father and looks forward to adding every endorsement and rating that she possibly can as she continues her journey in pilotage.
Summer 2020, Tailwheel Endorsement
Logan Fischer
Logan is a Los Angeles-based private pilot who’s been fascinated with aviation since he was 12. When he took his first flight lesson at 13, he decided to work towards flying commercially. By the time he was a freshman in high school, he had logged over 20 hours of flight time. Logan earned his pilot certificate at the beginning of this year. He’s also a full-time student at West Los Angeles College, where he majors in Aviation Maintenance. Logan plans to become a designated pilot examiner, and a charter pilot. In addition, he’s very interested in buying and building his own tailwheel airplane. He anticipates he’ll have his A&P mechanic certification by the end of next year, as well as his instrument and commercial ratings.
Spring 2020, Tailwheel Endorsement
Bill Barker
Bill Barker, 26, is an Aeronautical/Mechanical Design Engineer, whitewater kayaker, fly-fisherman, and owner and operator of his dream aircraft, a 1972 Piper PA-18-160 Super Cub. He started flying at a young age and soloed on his 16th birthday and received his PPL on his 17th birthday. He graduated from The University of Maine with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and has since received his Instrument Rating and CPL. His Super Cub has enabled him to become immersed in Backcountry, Bush, formation, seaplane, and STOL flying in Maine which he loves to share with his wife. He has an insatiable passion for aviation and aspires to become well versed in aerobatics with hopes to fly with Warbird formation aerobatic teams. He also hopes to attain CFI and ATP. Bill is also very excited to have his newborn son eventually become a 4th generation pilot.
Spring 2020, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Sam Kaplan
Sam is an engineer, diver, and private pilot who is always seeking adventure. He was first introduced to aviation by friends while attending college in San Luis Obispo. After 5 years of dreaming, he bought a 1947 Luscombe 8E and took to the skies in pursuit of his private pilot's license. Within a year, Sam logged just over 200 hours in his Luscombe. Based in Santa Paula, he has been exposed to some aerobatics and is eager to learn more about the sport.
Winter 2019, Aerobatic Judge Certificate
Jenna Lynn
Jenna grew up looking to the skies, constantly watching planes pass above her home that sat beneath a busy flight path. An avid adventurer from an early age, she fantasized about how invigorating and rewarding it would be to fly – and all of the places it could take her. After having earned two bachelor’s degrees, getting her private pilot’s license is the thrilling new endeavor that she is ready and eager to take on. Jenna plans to apply her passion for academics to aviation, and strive to continue to educate and challenge herself in order to become a better, safer pilot in a variety of airplanes. She looks forward to learning to fly in a tailwheel and is excited to incorporate flying into different forms of volunteer work in the future.
Winter 2019, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Rachel Sing
Rachel Sing is currently a senior at Adolfo Camarillo High School. She is interested in aviation because it is always pushing boundaries and the adventurous feeling of flying a plane. She plans to use this scholarship to get her private pilot’s license before attending a four year university to get a Bachelor’s of Science in Professional Flight. In the future she wishes to give back to the community and teach others how to fly as a CFI before working as a commercial airline pilot. In her free time she plays competitive indoor and beach volleyball and loves to spend time at the beach. Click here to hear about Rachel’s experience!
Winter 2019, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Emily Contos
Enthralled with exploring the sky from a very young age, Emily Contos has become the first pilot in her family. At age 19 she flew the first plane she ever sat in. Three years later she completed her Private Pilot License. Since then she has been working on the ground in the aviation industry. Her goal is to get off the ground and into the sky, preferably over the Canadian North. She is currently working on her Commercial Pilot License and Multi Engine Instrument Rating. Tailwheel experience is very valuable to the northern pilot, and Emily is very grateful for the Tailwheel Endorsement Scholarship opportunity. When not flying or studying, Emily can often be found spending time with her husband and two cats, and exploring the great outdoors.
Fall 2019, Tailwheel Endorsement
Mario Del Boccio
Mario Del Boccio is a full-time CFI at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. His interest in aviation started at a young age with some encouragement from his grandfather, who was a mechanic on the P-47 Thunderbolt. His passion led him to start his training at LeTourneau University in Longview, TX; where he had his first introduction to tailwheel aircraft in a Citabria. He has completed his PPL, IFR, CPL, and finally CFI. Mario intends to test for his A&P Certificate while also completing training for his CFI-I and MEL. He has had the opportunity to fly skydivers, track wildlife, and interned for United Airlines in their Flight Operations Department. Click here to hear Mario’s story!
Summer 2019, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Eduardo Camareno
Eduardo is an 18-year-old student pilot. His dream of flight brought him to the path of the United States Air Force Auxiliary. He flew his first solo flight, at age 17, through the Civil Air Patrol. Eduardo is pursuing his advanced ratings with the goal of flying as a U.S. Air Force pilot and a career as a commercial airline pilot. Eduardo is passionate about tailwheel and aerobatics with a plan to eventually fly on a precision jet aerobatic team. Click here to hear about Eduardo’s story and how Figure 1 has impacted his life.
Summer 2019, Tailwheel Endorsement
Winter 2017, Private Pilots License
Brian Nordella
Brian Nordella earned his private pilot license in November 2018. He is currently finishing up his associate degree at Santa Barbara City College. Brian aims to earn his commercial pilot license with the goal to eventually fly for a living. He spends a lot of his time volunteering with local aviation organizations and has always had a desire to fly tailwheel.
Spring 2019, Tailwheel Endorsement
Mark Stanfield
Mark Stanfield, 45, always a late bloomer, stumbled on to flying when he was 37. From Private Pilot to CFI and CFI-G in a few years; flying is his "Ultimate living in the moment!" He and his family love going to airshows and using the freedom to fly to go camping or to the beach. Mark enjoys helping pilots transition from nose wheel to tail wheel. He is also very active in Private, and Commercial glider instruction at Hood River Soaring, based in Hood River, OR. Mark wants to apply his knowledge gained from the Figure 1 Foundation scholarship to help jump start his track down aerobatics and build an upset recovery course for his Tow Pilots and tail wheel students.
Spring 2019, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Ernesto Diaz
Ernesto’s passion for aviation started at a young age. He served in the army for 14 years as a helicopter mechanic, and now works as an A&P at Aspen Helicopters in Oxnard, CA. He is currently enrolled as a full time student with Embry Riddle working towards his BS in Aeronautics. His goal is to compliment his aviation career by becoming a commercial pilot and flight instructor.
Winter 2018, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Troy Wollman
Originally from Palmdale, CA Troy attended Antelope Valley College and earned an A.S. in Mathematics before transferring to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to complete a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering concentrating in Aeronautics. While there, he co-founded a student flying club modeled after the German Akademische Fliegergruppe, “Akaflieg San Luis Obispo”. He is an enthusiastic glider pilot working on cross country racing and is planning to earn his CFI ratings both in power and gliders. Troy is currently completing the Graduate Assistant work-study program at the National Test Pilot towards an M.S. in Flight Test Engineering. Troy hopes to help improve the safety of aviation and introduce more young people to the joys of flying with a job that mixes his engineering background with pilot experience.
Winter 2018, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Shokoufeh Mirzaei
Shokoufeh Mirzaei, 36, grew up on air force bases around Iran prior to moving to the U.S. to pursue her Ph.D. in Industrial engineering. She is currently an associate professor of Industrial engineering at Cal Poly Pomona. Growing up on Air Force bases in Iran, she developed a passion to become a pilot. Last year she started her flight training and today she is an instrument-rated pilot with almost 200 hours in her logbook. Since she started flying, nothing has come close to the feeling of excitement during each flight and the accomplishment after. She is currently working on her commercial certificate and tailwheel endorsement. Her aviation goals are to become a CFI and fly aerobatics.
Fall 2018, Tailwheel Endorsement
Katie Crowley
Katie Cowley from Squamish BC, got her inspiration to fly from her background in the ski & snowboard industry. For years as a competitive athlete in slopestyle snowboarding she found herself surrounded by pilots that worked in the industry and inspired her career move to aviation. She sought out training in Squamish known for challenging winds and extensive mountain flying and just recently completed her commercial flight test. She is now pursuing tailwheel training to help her develop the skills to fly bush planes in Africa, ideally helping in the fight against poaching. It has become an important mission of hers to find a career that is bigger than herself, contributing to causes that will help the greater good and hopefully inspire other women to pursue aviation in the process.
Summer 2018, Tailwheel Endorsement
Andrea McGilvray
Andrea McGilvray was born in Austria and raised in Canada. Her interest in aviation began flying ultralights which led to her Private Pilot’s License in 1988. She has had the opportunity to fly many different aircraft. She is passionate about aerobatics and biplanes. She currently owns a J3 Kitten and Hatz CB-1. She has her tailwheel endorsement and plans to obtain her commercial license. Her goal is to teach tailwheel, basic aerobatics, and upset recovery.
Summer 2018, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Christopher Franklin
Christopher Franklin first got interested in aviation when he saw his sister pursuing her pilot’s licenses and settling into her current career in corporate aviation. He is a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol and has done part of his flight training through the program. Currently working on his instrument rating, Christopher ultimately plans to obtain his Commercial and CFI Certificates and then go on to fly with an airline or corporate aviation. In addition to this, Christopher plans to obtain an aeronautical engineering bachelor’s degree, and fly fighter aircraft for the Air National Guard.
Spring 2018, Tailwheel Endorsement
Neil Amonson
Neil Amonson’s life in the sky began when he joined the Air Force out of high school. After serving four years in special operations as a combat controller, he moved to Utah to master new forms of flight including paragliding, skydiving, wingsuit flying, and airplanes. He’s a commercial pilot, certified air traffic controller, holds a bachelor’s degree in Professional Aeronautics, and is currently working on his CFI rating. Neil hopes to one day have enough experience to be an advanced tailwheel instructor as well as give introductory aerobatic lessons.
Spring 2018, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Roland Van Staden
Roland, 29, is a part-time commercial pilot, full-time senior project manager, qualified safety officer, and quality assurance manager at his local flight school in South Africa. He is trained as an Ag Pilot but has not worked in the Ag sector. His passion for flying started at 6 years old and it is all he ever wanted to do. In 2009, when he was 21, he started flying Ultra Lights. In 2013 he took the plunge and took out a loan to complete his PPL and his CPL in 2015. Roland is currently busy working on his Instructors rating and continues to improve his flying skills on every level. Roland has big plans ahead including aerobatics. He is looking forward to passing on his skills through instruction and inspiring others to work hard at their dreams and goals.
Fall 2017, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Dave Werschky
Dave always had an interest in flying which flourished when an older flight instructor friend invited Dave to accompany him on a few flights. Always upbeat and chummy, Dave instills trust in even the most nervous of flyers. Initially, Dave began his career in-flight instruction, then transitioned into working as Chief Pilot for Redtail Air in Moab, Utah. Dave has also had the opportunity to fly skydivers, which inspired him his decision to follow suit and take up skydiving himself. He now serves as a skydiving coach to beginner divers. When not in the sky, Dave can be found mountain biking, skiing, and climbing.
Fall 2017, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Josh Corr
Josh Corr is a 20-year-old 3rd generation pilot. He grew up around airplanes and has wanted to fly for as long as he can remember. Josh started flying at 16 and got his private pilot’s license at 18. Flying aerobatics has been a dream for him. HE is extraordinarily excited to begin training with Figure 1 to become an aerobatic judge to start his journey into aerobatic flight.
Fall 2017, Aerobatic Judge Certificate
Raul Aguilera Chavez
Raul, currently a student at Channel Islands University, has always dreamt of becoming a pilot. He was attracted to career in aviation because of the opportunities for growth, dynamic environments, and the chance to travel the world. The thing that attracts him the most, however, is the joy he feels when he hears, sees, and flies a plane. The desire to accomplish his dream lead to his first flight in a Cessna 150 with the help of his friend/CFI Bradley Cockbill and CP Aviation. He has yet to receive his Private Pilot’s license, but plans to achieve it with help from Fig 1. Raul has volunteered at FOOD Share Inc., the Family Mason Animal Clinic and First Five. The drive to help others and knowing he has made a difference in someone’s life pushes him to always lend a hand.
Summer 2017, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Leah Hiebert
Leah, from Montana, began her journey in aviation while still in high school, earning her wings at age 17. Now a commercial pilot working for a commuter airline in southwestern Alaska, Leah is moving closer to her goal of flying heavy air tankers for wildlife suppression. As a part-time flight instructor and CAP pilot, she enjoys investing in the next generation of pilots and plans on using her training with Figure 1 to improve her ability to continue flying safely while passing on exemplary skills and attitudes to others!
Spring 2017, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Philip Stokes
Philip, 29, has been enamored with flight since age 7. Inspired by his uncle who flew fighter jets for the US Air Force, Philip also wanted to fly for the Air Force when he grew up. At 17 years old Philip suffered from a spinal cord injury that paralyzed his entire left arm and barred him from this endeavor. After graduating college and having his paralyzed arm amputated, Philip obtained his Private Pilot certificate and is working towards his Instrument Rating. As one of the few full-arm amputee pilots in the US, Philip has shifted his sights to competitive aerobatic flying and motivational; speaking. Figure 1 has been instrumental in bringing Philip closer to his dream of flying tailwheel and aerobatics, and more importantly, giving him the tools to inspire others to achieve their own goals in life and to never give up.
Spring 2017, Tailwheel Endorsement
Timothy Fonseca
Tim is a 23-year-old commercial pilot currently flying a Cessna 310 for an aerial mapping company with a goal of flying for a regional airline by the end of 2017. Tim started a young pilot organization called the “Millennial Wings” in March 2015. His mission is to bring young adults in aviation together by hosting local fly-ins. The Millennial Wings has grown to four national chapters and is hosting events in FL, GA, NY, and CA. When not in the air, or organizing an event for Millennial Wings, Tim enjoys skate parks and watersports. Tim will be pursuing flying aerobatics is in the near future and getting involved in the aerobatic community with the goal of purchasing a Pitts S1S.
Spring 2017, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Roy Becker
Roy Becker, a long-time aviation enthusiast, decided more recently that he would focus his efforts on becoming a pilot. Aerobatics and Bush Flying are amongst his main interests, and he looks forward to exploring the art of these practices as he begins his training with Figure 1. In addition to aviation, Roy also enjoys giving back to the community.
Fall 2016, Fixed Wing Private Pilot License
Genevieve Zasada
At 24, Genevieve did not believe her business degree, corporate job or cubical sealed her destiny. She made a choice of quitting her job to instead work the front desk and clean airplanes for flight time at Peterson AFB Aeroclub. Because of the support, mentorship, and generosity from her aviation community, she was interviewed and selected for the Air National Guard pilot training program with the ultimate goal of becoming a fighter pilot. Although Genevieve has limited experience in aerobatics, she wants to become better and eventually earn an IAC Smooth Award. She is excited to fly with the Figure 1 Foundation team to help her accomplish this goal.
Summer 2016, Tailwheel Endorsement
Heather Kelly
Heather Kelly, an Oregon native, is a candidate for her Bachelors of Science in Professional Aviation from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Her passion for the industry and dedicated approach to her studies has earned her a 4.0 GPA. After completing her studies, Heather’s ultimate goal is to live abroad and use her skills to assist underdeveloped countries by flying in supplies and medical air. She is looking forward to joining the Figure 1 family and feels that having mentors such as Chris and AJ will help her establish a footing in the professional aviation world.
Winter 2017, Aerobatic Judge
Spring 2016, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Jennifer Bauman
Jennifer Bauman is a Junior at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California, and is working towards her B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. In addition to pursuing her education, Jennifer is working towards her flight instructor certification. Jennifer spends much of her free time volunteering in the local aviation community, recently starting a flying club at her university that aims to make aviation more affordable for youth. Jennifer looks forward to passing along the skills learned from the Figure 1 team to her future students.
Spring 2016, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics
Chase Standage
Chase Standage, currently a Junior at Moorpark High School, earned his private pilot’s license in February of this year. Chase aspired to be a naval aviator, a military test pilot, and eventually a NASA Astronaut. With enrollment in multiple honors courses and a 4.2 GPA, Chase also serves in the Naval Sea Cadet Corps program as a petty officer Second-Class.
Spring 2016, Upset Recovery / Spin Training / Intro to Aerobatics