I am an aviation professional with a passion for leadership, service, and continual growth. I currently serve as the Airport Manager at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport in Illinois, where I oversee daily airport operations, manage infrastructure projects, foster tenant and community relationships, and promote general aviation throughout the region.

Before transitioning into aviation, I spent nine years serving my community as a Firefighter/Paramedic. In 2022, I pursued my lifelong interest in aviation and have since earned my Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, and Commercial Multi-Engine Rating while working full-time. I also fly part-time as a Second-in-Command in the Shorts SD3, gaining valuable multi-engine turbine experience.

My goal is to continue growing as a professional pilot while combining my operational experience, leadership background, and passion for aviation. I am currently pursuing my Certified Flight Instructor certificate to further develop my skills and help mentor the next generation of aviators. My long-term goal is to build a career in corporate aviation.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our three daughters. We love camping, fishing, biking, and making memories together. I am also active in my local church, volunteer with EAA Chapter 241, assist with the Kishwaukee Education Consortium’s high school aviation program, and enjoy woodworking in my spare time. Whether in aviation, my community, or at home, I strive to lead with integrity, serve others, and pursue excellence in everything I do.

Education

Siena Heights University
B.S. Public Safety Studies 2016 -
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
A.A.S. Fire Science 2009 -
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Paramedic Certificate August 2, 2010 - December 16, 2011

Work Experience

Airport Manager
City of DeKalb - November 27, 2023 Manage all aspects of daily airport operations, including FAA compliance, airport safety, capital improvement projects, tenant relations, fuel operations, budgeting, and customer service. Coordinate with government agencies, contractors, pilots, and aviation businesses while ensuring safe and efficient airport operations.
SIC - Shorts SD3
Win Aviation - Present Serve as Second-in-Command in the Shorts SD-3 supporting military parachute training operations. Conduct preflight planning, aircraft inspections, crew coordination, and flight operations while maintaining strict adherence to FAA regulations, SOPs, and safety procedures.

Highlights

Professional Highlight
500+ Total Flight Hours Commercial Pilot – SEL, MEL, Instrument Multi-Engine Turbine SIC Airport Manager Military Parachute Operations Crew Resource Management FAA Compliance Safety-First Professional Former Firefighter/Paramedic Strong Leadership Skills Professional Decision Maker Customer-Focused Excellent Communication Quick Learner Team-Oriented

Aircraft Experience

Short Brothers, SD-3
  • Time in Type: 36 hours hrs
  • Price/Day: $370
Piper, PA-46
  • Time in Type: 25 hours hrs
  • Last Training: February 4, 2026
Cessna, C-172
  • Time in Type: 400 hrs