Fort Rucker on Cairns Army Airfield
Who are you flying for currently?
I am a Pilot at US Army in Fort Rucker on Cairns Army Airfield
What ratings do you hold?
Professional Pilot Program
What kind of helicopter(s) do you fly?
I am flying the Lakota.
Tell us about your career path.
I started in the Airforce as a Structural Mechanic (Sheet Metal) and then worked on small aircraft in General Aviation. While working full-time as a mechanic at Mauna Loa Helicopters I completed the helicopter Professional Pilot Program. I then began my airplane training and while completing my airplane flight instructor certificates I operated as a private contractor providing flight instruction and flying tours in helicopters. While doing free-lance work (Including mechanic work and aircraft detailing) I leased an R44, built a 135 Air Carrier Certificate, and operated a successful tour business.
I eventually sold the business and moved from Hawaii to Texas to provide check rides to the FAA. While administering check rides to the FAA I encountered many Army Helicopter Aviators that shared their stories of Fort Rucker (Cairns Army Airfield), the world's busiest heliport. I was inspired to take the challenge and the opportunity of a career supporting and training the US (United States) Army in the fully Instrument Rated, Multi-Engine Lakota (and the Full Motion Level 7 Simulator)!
Do you have any other comments or suggestions for those just beginning in the industry?
Be the perpetual student! Get the ATP, do the Airplane Add-on, take a mechanics course, and continue to challenge yourself to be the best aviator you can be while sharing passion and love for all things aviation.
