Noting how long it's been since I posted in here, I thought it time for an update. The memory of my dad lingers as my brother, sister and I now are the proud owners of N7783G, his Cessna 172L. I've spent many hours and had lots of wonderful times in that plane, and every time I open the cockpit doors and climb in, the familiar smells (probably spilled oil, sodas, and snacks) remind me of the wonderful trips and memories I've shared with family and friends over the decades. It's not fast, fancy or a big hauler, but its safe, reliable, forgiving and AN AIRPLANE! And with so many fun memories attached to it, I just can't part with it yet.
My part time aviation gig has also shifted. After three years with Skydive New England, I an now employed with Linear Air. I gained a ton of experience and fun memories flying the Otter with skydivers aboard (and even learned to skydive myself, with 30 jumps under my belt!).
I am now learning to fly the Eclipse jet as Second-in-command with a small company called Linear Air based in Bedford, MA. Like any new venture, it feels like drinking from a fire hose, but I will get it. It's very automated and IFR focused, with well rehearsed crew coordination. This is a different form of flying for me, but I am really enjoying it and enjoy the team approach and getting to go cross country.
There's also a budding Aviation Program starting at the University of Maine, here in Augusta. I am excited by the interest shown so far in the program, and would love to teach some of their Aviation Courses. It feels good to give back to the community that's given me so much pleasure. And to see the excitement and anticipation of new students reminds me of my own journey years ago, where I'd cling to the fence at the Lebanon NH airport, watching the Air New England planes depart. I'd wonder to myself "Would I ever be able to pilot one of those amazing machines?" Many mentors, family members, and friends encouraged me along the way. And now I find myself saying to those new to the field words that were shared with me..."Yes, with hard work and perseverance and passion...you can fly it!"
My part time aviation gig has also shifted. After three years with Skydive New England, I an now employed with Linear Air. I gained a ton of experience and fun memories flying the Otter with skydivers aboard (and even learned to skydive myself, with 30 jumps under my belt!). 
I am now learning to fly the Eclipse jet as Second-in-command with a small company called Linear Air based in Bedford, MA. Like any new venture, it feels like drinking from a fire hose, but I will get it. It's very automated and IFR focused, with well rehearsed crew coordination. This is a different form of flying for me, but I am really enjoying it and enjoy the team approach and getting to go cross country.
There's also a budding Aviation Program starting at the University of Maine, here in Augusta. I am excited by the interest shown so far in the program, and would love to teach some of their Aviation Courses. It feels good to give back to the community that's given me so much pleasure. And to see the excitement and anticipation of new students reminds me of my own journey years ago, where I'd cling to the fence at the Lebanon NH airport, watching the Air New England planes depart. I'd wonder to myself "Would I ever be able to pilot one of those amazing machines?" Many mentors, family members, and friends encouraged me along the way. And now I find myself saying to those new to the field words that were shared with me..."Yes, with hard work and perseverance and passion...you can fly it!"
