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Franz Amann

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Franz is a German Canadian, who has lived around the world in such places as Guatemala, Turkey, Germany, Canada, United Arab Emirates, and the United States.  Franz's passion for flying began when his dad purchased a joystick and a flight simulator at the age of 5.  One summer when he was 10 years old, his uncle asked him to join him on a recreational flight.  At that time, he could barely see over the dash.  His uncle gave “little” Franz the controls and let him loose.  With nothing, but him and the birds, he was hooked.

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A few years later, he got his first job in aviation at United Flight Systems as a Ramper and shortly thereafter began his aviation training.  Franz has earned his Private Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Certificate, Multiengine Rating, and Flight Instructor Certificates.  His passion for aviation is infectious and his background helps him convey difficult concepts using relatable topics. The passion for aviation is something that Franz would love to convey to all his future students and creating top-notch pilots with a deep understanding of aviation.

 

When not flying Franz likes to go Hiking, Cooking, and traveling with friends. 

Damian Fermin

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Damian was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and moved to the Houston area in 2007. He has always had an interest in aviation since he was little, but never thought about flying until high school. He was always interested in building and designing cars and airplanes and thought he would always become an engineer. He started flying in March 2020 and earned his private pilot’s license at Ellington Field. After obtaining his private, Damian found his passion for flying and decided that flying was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life.

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He completed the rest of his flight training at Lone Star College where he earned an associate degree in December 2022. Shortly after graduating, he enrolled at Texas A&M University-Central Texas where is currently pursuing his B.S. in Aviation Management. He is grateful for all his instructors who helped and supported him during his flight training and wants to do the same for his students.

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Outside of flying, Damian likes to be active and goes hiking, camping, walking his two dogs, playing soccer, and spending time with his family. He is a big fan of the Houston Astros and the Houston Dynamo and attends their games regularly. Damian hopes to one day become a Captain at a major airline.

Mary Harris

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Growing up in an aviation family, Mary heard about flying almost every day. Her and her father would listen to IAH Live ATC and she would imagine herself as the pilot on the approach landing a 737. After hearing years of stories, Mary wanted to give it a try and see what all the excitement was about. In May 2020, her dad bought a discovery flight here at United Flight Systems and she’s never looked back. She felt a passion for aviation immediately and started flight training.  


 

Mary was born and raised in the Houston area. Just like her brother, she completed all her flight training here at United Flight Systems. Most days out of the week she spent more time at UFS then at home. She completely fell in love with airplanes and the excitement of flying.  


 

Outside of flying she loves spending time with family and friends, playing and watching basketball, and working out. As one of many pilots in her family, Mary looks forward to training and flying with her brother at United Airlines. Mary is excited for the opportunity to share her knowledge and passion for flying with her students, as they embark on their aviation journey. 

Kevin Wiseman

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Born outside of Flint, Michigan, Kevin moved to the Houston area in the 1990’s with his family.  Kevin graduated from Klein Oak High School before attending Oklahoma State University where he earned a

Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering.  Kevin briefly lived in Wausau, Wisconsin and New Braunfels, TX before moving back to Houston in 2005 where he began working as a firefighter.

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Kevin’s aviation interest has been lifelong. In late 2021 Kevin completed his first private pilot training lesson here at United Flight Systems and was hooked.  Kevin obtained all his pilot ratings here at UFS including his certified Flight Instructor Certificate in August of 2023.

 

When not flying, Kevin spends time with his Wife Elisa and their daughters Caroline and Valerie.  The Wiseman Family enjoys traveling, watching their favorite sports teams, The Detroit Red Wings and Houston Astros, and being involved with school activities.

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Kevin’s goal is to share his love of flying with our students and help them achieve their aviation goals.

Jasmine Hendry

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Jasmine Hendry was born and raised here in Spring, Texas. Her parents moved from Switzerland, where most of her family still resides. Growing up, Jasmine spent a lot of time traveling to Switzerland as well as across the US for various ice hockey tournaments, which ignited her passion for aviation. She and her dad both shared an interest in big airplanes and loved plane spotting together while traveling. After being gifted a surprise discovery flight at UFS, Jasmine knew she belonged in the sky. 

 

Jasmine completed all of her certificates and ratings here at UFS. You may recognize her from working the front desk as a dispatcher throughout her training. She also studied at Liberty University, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science in Aviation degree. Jasmine is beyond excited to further her career at UFS and share her passion for flying with her students. 

 

Jasmine’s dream is to become an airline pilot and venture the world. Outside of flying, she enjoys watching and playing ice hockey (Go Stars), going to car shows, spending time with friends and family, and shopping. 

Marwan Redmon

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Born in the U.A.E, Marwan was introduced to aviation at a very young age. As a child he lived all over the world due to his parents' work while finally settling in Louisiana. The obsession that had formed by this point for flying had taken root. Upon graduation Marwan worked his way through the corporate world as a General Manager for a group of Volkswagen dealerships, until one day he knew he wouldn’t be happy unless he pursued his passion for flight. He quit his job and became a ramp agent for Southwest Airlines, and shortly after a Flight Attendant for PSA Airlines. Marwan was a Flight Attendant for PSA for over 5 years while also holding the title of MEC Grievance Chair for their union AFA.

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Around March of 2022 Marwan moved from Charlotte, NC to Houston, TX to begin his flight training utilizing the support of his family who have been in the Houston area for over 10 years. Over the course of the next year and a half he obtained his Private, Instrument, Commercial, and CFI while training at KDWH. Passion for the desire to instruct came directly from his instructor who has become both a friend and mentor. Marwan hopes as an instructor he can help students accomplish the same dreams he is continually following while he himself obtains his CFI-I and multi engine add ons.

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When Marwan is not flying he is at home with his girlfriend and their fur-child Mr. Winston. He also enjoys playing a round of golf, a Saturday night in Death Valley cheering on his LSU Tigers, or hanging out with family and friends.

Alex Brejnik

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Alex was born and raised here in spring, tx. Although, she was born in America, her family moved here from Czech Republic. During a couple of summers she would travel with her grandparents and parents to Europe to visit family. This is what fueled her love and desire for travel. She’s also been to various places around the U.S, like the Grand Canyon, Florida, California, Hawaii, etc. 

 

Growing up Alex participated in many activities. She was a competitive figure skater for about 15 years. From the time she learned how to walk you would find her on the ice. Alex was also a competitive gymnast starting in her young childhood. When she wasn’t on the ice or in school, she was at the gym with her teammates. She was also a Girl Scout, which gave her a love for the outdoors and nature. Later in her teenage years, she became a certified scuba diver and she still loves to travel to various places to dive. 

 

This love for adventure and travel gravitated her toward the aviation field. After her first discovery flight, she knew behind the yoke was the only place she wanted to be. When you don’t see alex at the airport, you might catch her at the beach, at a hockey game, or relaxing with her family and friends.

Nick Lococo

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Nick was born in Louisiana and raised in Montgomery, Texas. Thanks to his father's profession as an airline captain, Nick's childhood was infused with the essence of flight. Despite countless introductions to flying through simulators at his father's work, and even a discovery flight, Nick didn't initially see himself becoming a pilot.

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After about a year of college, Nick realized that the traditional path wasn't for him. This is where he decided to pursue his private pilot's license. Once he started his training, Nick was hooked. He even managed to complete an associate degree in business through Lone Star College while pursuing his passion for Aviation.

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Beyond the cockpit, Nick finds joy in spending time with his beautiful girlfriend and hanging out with their cat Lupe. He also enjoys golfing, being outdoors, cooking, and exploring new and exciting destinations. With his sights set on the future, Nick aims to become a corporate pilot. He is very enthusiastic about sharing his love for aviation and helping others pursue their passion in the skies.

Reed Koch

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Reed Koch, a third-generation pilot from Conroe, Texas, was captivated by aviation at the age of five while flying with his father. After pursuing a career in motorcycle racing, he chose to follow his passion for flying.

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To finance his pilot training, Reed obtained a captain's license for charter vessels, steadily climbing the ranks to become a trainer and chief captain. In 2019, he enrolled at United Flight Systems to obtain his private pilot license.

 

Today, Reed's days are devoted to the airport and gym, where he shares his love for aviation and mentors aspiring pilots. Known for his professionalism, and dedication Reed strives to instill safety and knowledge in every aviator he guides, embodying excellence in aviation instruction and mentorship.

Derin Reinke

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

From the great city of Conroe, Texas, Derin was born into the world of Aviation. The roar of Jet engines served as his childhood lullaby, kindling his passion for flying early on as the child of a United Airlines captain. The allure of the skies was a constant presence in his life. 

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But it was a singular, awe-inspiring experience that sent Derin's destiny soaring. At the age of 11, he was offered an exclusive spot in the jump seat of a Boeing 767 during a deliver flight to have the aircraft painted. As the sole passenger he experience the exhilaration of takeoff and landing from the best seat in the house, cementing his future in aviation.

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Derin knew from that singular experience that aviation would be his legacy and dream, turning childhood fascination into a lifelong pursuit. 

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Now a CFI, Derin's goal is to do more than just teach techniques and maneuvers; Derin views every lesson as a opportunity to inspire and to share the magic that happens above the clouds, striving to ignite the same spark in others that once propelled his passion for aviation.

Timothy Holland

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Timothy grew up surrounded by the red rocks of St. George, Utah. After marrying his wife Gabriela, he relocated to Houston to be with her and start their lives together. Timothy then went to college and was studying to become a dentist before realizing his true passion for aviation. After the sudden passing of his father who was an aspiring pilot, he decided to explore the world of aviaiton and booked a discovery flight. From that point on, he knew that flying is where his heart is. 

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Timothy began to work at obtaining all his ratings starting with his private pilot at ATP in conroe in 2022. He then obtained his instrument, commercial, and CFI ratings with United Flight Systems. As a CFI, Timothy's goal is to teach students to be safe, confident, and skilled pilots. He hopes to create a positive learning environment for his students, so he he can motivate and inspire them to be the best they can be. Timothy dreams of one day being a captain for a wide-body aircraft and seeing all the world has to offer.

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When he is not flying, he enjoys gaming, hiking, and spending quality time with his wife and 2 cats, Zelda and Luna.

Sarah Martin

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Sarah Martin grew up in Houston, Texas with her three brothers. Having a passion for helping others, she studied and received a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from St. Louis University.

 

One summer day in 2019, she went flying with her two younger brothers. Her younger brother who currently flies for American Airlines planted the seed so that she too could learn to fly. Flying has not only become a personal joy for Sarah, but a shared Martin Family activity.

 

She is currently the Secretary for the Women in Aviation Houston Chapter. Outside of flying, Sarah spends her time with her family, volunteering, and playing with her Bulldogs. She recently left her role as Chief of staff at a global safety company to chase her dream of flying everyday, and inspiring the next generation of aviators.

Jiri Brejnik

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Jiri was born in what is now Czech Republic, and at a young age immigrated to Canada with his parents. Jiri started playing hockey, which turned into a large part of his life. As a teenager, Jiri and his family moved to the Houston area, where he has called home ever since. Before making his transition into aviation, Jiri worked at a local ice rink as the pro shop manager and coach. As far back as he can remember, Jiri has been fascinated by airplanes, and even to this day, you might find him on the top floor of parking garages at IAH or Hobby watching planes takeoff and land. 

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After a nudge from a few of his pilot friends, Jiri decided to make the big life change and begin his journey to become a pilot himself. With the support of his wife, Dani, he was able to realize his dream. Jiri earned his Private Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Certificate, Multiengine Rating, CFI, and MEI. He is now looking forward to helping others accomplish their aviation goals.

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When Jiri is not working, he is spending time with his wife and three daughters, Alexandra, Pavlina, and Elishka. He helps coach his daughter's hockey team, and enjoys taking his girls to their activities.

Nic Moxcey

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Nic Moxcey was born and raised in Spring, Texas, where the proximity to Hooks Airport ignited his fascination with aviation from a young age. 

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Growing up near the airport, and living underneath the traffic pattern of Bush Intercontinental, he often found himself mesmerized by the sight of planes, sparking a lifelong passion for flight.

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After graduating from Klein Oak High School, Nic pursued his higher education at Texas A&M University, where he obtained a degree in construction and planning design. He embarked on a career in commercial construction management and project controls, gaining valuable experience in the field. 

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However, Nic's love for aviation never waned, and he harbored a deep-seated desire to become a captain for a major airline. Determined to turn his passion into a profession, he decided to make a career transition. He started training full-time out of Conroe North Houston, and set his sights on achieving his dream of flying commercially.

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Driven by his own journey, and the joy he experienced with each aviation milestone, Nic seeks to share his expertise and passion with others, providing top-notch training to aspiring pilots, helping them safely and efficiently navigate their path to becoming licensed pilots. 

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When not flying, Nic enjoys spending time on the golf course, traveling, fitness, and cookouts with his family and friends. His love for flying is deeply ingrained, nurtured by the support of his pilot friends and the memorable flights he took in his youth.

Brian Rose

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Brian Rose grew up in Kingwood, TX, where the proximity to George Bush Intercontinental Airport ignited a lifelong passion for aviation. From his first flight on an airliner as a young kid, he knew he wanted to someday be a professional pilot

 

After graduating from Kingwood Park High School, Brian earned a degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management from the University of North Texas. He began a career in transportation working as a fleet manager for a trucking company in Dallas, TX.

 

Despite building a career in the field of logistics, Brian’s passion for aviation always remained. After moving back to Houston, Brian took a Discovery Flight at UFS in August 2020, and was hooked right away. He then decided to finally pursue his dream of becoming a professional pilot.

 

Brian looks forward to using his own experience to help motivate other to become safe, skilled, and knowledgeable pilots. Outside of flying, he enjoys cooking and baking, playing golf, and spending time with friends and family.

Brian Dalzell

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI

Brian’s passion for aviation began at an early age, fueled by a fascination and admiration for fighter jets, air shows, and classic aviation films. Following his childhood dream, Brian began his flight training at United Flight Systems in August 2021.

 

Motivated by his own training experience, Brian aspires to emulate the professionalism, support, and kindness demonstrated by his instructors at UFS, as he transitions into the role of instructor himself. His goal is to guide and inspire students, helping each one achieve their aviation goals with dedication and enthusiasm.

 

Outside of aviation, Brian has a love for the outdoors. He takes solace in fly fishing and outdoor pursuits, especially archery. He also cherishes spending time with his wife and their two Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Neo and Remi, whenever possible.

 

Brian has an Honors Degree in Economics from Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia. In a previous life, he worked as a statistician, economic consultant, stockbroker, and day-trader. With a blend of passion for aviation, dedication to teaching, and appreciation for outdoor pursuits, Brian looks forward to continuing his journey in aviation, while sharing his love for flying and adventure with others.

Natalie Donahue

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Natalie was born in Annapolis, Maryland, but has lived in Kingwood, Texas for most of her life. Growing up near Bush Intercontinental, along with the fact that her dad is a Captain for United Airlines, Natalie has always been surrounded by Aviation. However, what truly sparked her passion for flying was when her dad surprised her on her 16th birthday with a Discovery Flight out of Cleveland Municipal. She's been captivated by anything aviation related ever since.

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After graduating from Kingwood High School in 2022, Natalie would spend the next year and a half solely focusing on Flight Training. Flying out of La Porte Municipal, she earned her Private PIlot License in 2023. She then moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, where she obtained her Instrument and Commercial Licenses. She then moved to the other side of Phoenix and lived in Mesa, Arizona while obtaining her Multi-Engine rating while flying out of Phoenix-Messa Gateway. She then went on to move back to Texas, where she flew out of Conroe/ North Houston Regional where she earned her CFI, CFII, and MEI.

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As a CFI, Natalie plans to teach her students to be the best pilots they can be. Her goal isn'tjust to teach students how to pass a checkride, but also how to be the most safe, confident, and competent pilot when behind the prop. In the future, Natalie aims to take after her father, with the goal of working for United Airlines.

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In her free time, Natalie enjoys golfing, watching gymnastics, and traveling with friends and family!

Willem Van Der Werff

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Willem was born in Arizona, but quickly made his way to the great state of Texas. His interest in aviation began at a young age, frequently traveling from Houston to Amsterdam where much of his family still lives. He fondly recalls being in awe of the majestic Boeing 747's he frequently traveled on.

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Initially following his Father's footsteps, Willem attended Lone Star College where he attended the fire academy and gained certification as an EMT. He has worked in all three branches of emergency services, most recently serving as a police officer. Willem found a passion for teaching new police officers as an academy instructor and field training officer. After realizing that he did not want to stay in emergency services for the rest of his career, he took a discovery flight at the La Porte Municipal Airport. This ignited a new passion for aviation and the desire to put his teaching experience into his new career field. Willem attended a few different schools for his pilot certificates and ultimately landed at United Flight Systems. He chose United Flight Systems due to their unmatched standards and commitment to student success.


Willem’s goal as an instructor is to make safe pilots and always put the needs of the student first. He believes that flight training should be fun while also making sure that we hold ourselves to the highest standards of safety and knowledge.

Mariah Banks

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Certified Flight Instructor

CFI, CFII

Mariah Banks is a dynamic flight instructor whose impressive career spans both the skies and the laboratory. With a degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Wyoming, she delved into the world of scientific research before transitioning to aviation. Her disciplined approach to life was further shaped by her service in the Texas Army National Guard, where she developed strong leadership and resilience.

Mariah’s aviation experience began as an American Airlines Cadet in Dallas, TX. There, she completed her CFI/CFII and began instructing students at a local Part 61 school. Her most fond moment as an instructor is being able to instill confidence in her students.

Outside of her professional achievements, Mariah is an avid powerlifter. She also enjoys gaming, finding it a perfect way to unwind after a long day in the skies. At home, Mariah is devoted to her two miniature schnauzers, Nene and Fitz, who bring joy and companionship to her busy life. Balancing her diverse interests and responsibilities, Mariah exemplifies a well-rounded and inspiring individual.

David Wright

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CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

David grew up in Houston.  He began his passion for flying as a child, often riding his bicycle to Andrau Airpark (unfortunately, Andrau is now a golf course) to watch airplanes.  After earning his Private Pilot Certificate at 17 years old, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (Prescott, AZ) granted David a B.S. in Aeronautical Studies/Computer Science.

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David has been related to United Flight Systems since 1990.  He is the school’s Chief Flight instructor, serving that position since 1996 (with some breaks).  He was in corporate aviation as a director of flight operations for a Part 91 Flight Department for 26 years.

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When he is not teaching, he out flying for Southwest Airlines as a First Officer.  He is type rated in Cessna 500 Citation, Cessna 510 Mustang, Cessna 525, Cessna 560XLS, and Boeing 737.

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His wife, Yolanda, and children, Diego and Maya keep him occupied when he is not out turning Avgas or Jet-A into noise.

Jeffrey Gill

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ASSISTANT CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

CFI, CFII, MEI, ATP

Jeff holds an ATP, CFI/II/MEI and first earned his Flight Instructor Certificate in 1995. Since then he has instructed in everything from experimental ultralights to twin-engine turbo props, and has helped numerous pilots go from first flight to Airline Pilot. He is fully bilingual (English/Spanish), and even flew for a while in Spain after obtaining his Spanish Private Pilot License.

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Having competed in multiple aerobatic competitions up and down the west coast, he enjoys using his real-world experience to help his students learn the practical application of what they’re studying. Aside from instructing, Jeff was the pilot for the team doctor of the Oakland Raiders, flew a King Air 350i for Wheels Up and a British Aerospace Jetstream under Part 121. He spent the Pandemic Year flying a King Air throughout SouthEast Asia after ferrying the airplane from Arizona to Laos with stops in Alaska, Russia, Japan, Macau, and Korea! Jeff holds a BS in Aviation Operations and Management from Golden Gate University in San Francisco, and MBA from Texas A&M – Commerce, and currently flies a Gulfstream G-IV SP as well as a King Air 350i for a medical corporation.

 

He enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife Claudia and three beautiful daughters when not flying.

GIO HANDAL

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ASSISTANT CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

CFI / CFII / MEI

Giovanni (or Gio for short) was born and raised in Houston, Texas. He caught the aviation bug at the age of 7 when a Southwest Airlines captain let him explore the cockpit of a Boeing 737 during a layover. It was there that he decided he wanted a career in Aviation. Using money he saved from working at a local grocery store, he took a discovery flight at the age of 16 at United Flight Systems where he eventually earned his CFI and CFII. Giovanni then moved to College Station, Texas and attended Texas A&M University where he majored in Economics. After spending multiple years instructing in between classes at the Texas A&M flying club, he gained an interest in air traffic control and was eventually hired by the Federal Aviation Administration as an Enroute Air Traffic Controller. After graduating from the FAA academy in Oklahoma City, he was placed at Houston Center giving him the opportunity to come back to United Flight Systems and instruct where he first learned to fly. When Giovanni is not instructing or issuing vectors, he spends his time running, hanging out with his yellow lab Duke, cooking, or binging a new show on Netflix. 

Kevin Foster

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Assistant Chief Instructor

CFI, CFII & MEI

Kevin grew up just outside of Chicago and as a 3rd generation pilot, his love of aviation was inevitable.  The summer after completing high school, Kevin started his flight training with his brother as his instructor and he received his Private Pilot Certificate.  

 

Kevin attended the University of Illinois and obtained a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Civil Engineering.  Upon graduation, he began a 10-year career in Project Management with ExxonMobil.  He and his family were fortunate to spend much of that time overseas, and while he loved to travel, every time he got on a plane, Kevin knew he wanted to be the Pilot, not the passenger.  Ultimately, he pulled the trigger on a career change and enrolled in a professional pilot program where he obtained his Instrument, Commercial, Multi-Engine, CFI, CFII and MEI.

Kevin is excited to be instructing at United Flight Systems – He vividly remembers the excitement of his first training flight 15+ years ago and he’s excited to share in those moments with new students on their journey to becoming a pilot.  Kevin is currently a First Officer for Sky West and continues to mentor our instructors and students.

 

Kevin and his wife Vanessa have two children – James and Emily.  When Kevin is not flying, he enjoys sports, traveling, camping, and spending time with friends and family. 

Brandon White

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Assistant Chief Instructor

CFI, CFII

Brandon’s passion for aviation began at a young age and was driven by his dad, a retired Air Force pilot, who now is working for the airlines. While attending Texas A&M University he served the community as a paramedic and also began his venture into aviation during his final year. If you have ever heard an Aggie joke, then you know it usually insults their intelligence. The punchline to Brandon’s story is that he did graduate from Texas A&M but spent four years studying for the wrong career path. Luckily, once he discovered how much he enjoyed flying - his future “took off.”

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Brandon started flying with United Flight Systems in 2019 to begin working on his instrument rating and has worked with the team and flown the UFS fleet ever since.  While Brandon has taken on the task to change careers, he looks forward to helping the next round of aviators doing their training to have fun or become professional pilots!

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In his free time, Brandon enjoys golfing, fishing, watching college football, and spending time with his wife and two dogs.

Zac Borden

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Assistant Chief Instructor

CFI, CFII, MEI

Zac grew up in Indiana but has also lived in Massachusetts, California, and even Australia for a couple of years. He moved to Houston in 2013 to start a career as a mechanical engineer in oil and gas. Zac began started training as a student with United Flight Systems in 2020 just for fun, something he’d always wanted to try, but soon realized that flying was something he wanted to do for the long haul. He left his 10-year career to finish up his ratings and become a full-time flight instructor.

 

Zac has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Olin College of Engineering, and a doctorate from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He has a passion for teaching that began in graduate school and is excited to help you realize your aviation goals, whatever they are.

 

When not instructing, Zac enjoys rock climbing (both inside and outside), cooking, and spending time with friends.

Matt Baldys

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ASSISTANT CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

CFI, CFII

Matt was born in Arizona and has lived in California and Texas.  He moved to Houston, beginning a career as a firefighter, of which he serves now as a chief officer.  About five years ago, he was assigned to Hobby Airport as the Airport Commander, responsible for coordinating the emergency responses for aircraft with the Aircraft Rescue Firefighters, the fire department, Air Traffic Control and Airport Operations.  He became fascinated with aviation in his new assignment and used to climb on the roof of the airport fire station at night with a portable radio and a pair of binoculars, watching the planes in the distance and listening to the radio. That job assignment triggered the plan to set in motion a career change, and he hasn’t looked back since. 

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Matt got his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Concordia University in Irvine, CA and his master’s degree from Sam Houston State University.  His passion for aviation is backed up by a strong safety perspective from working in emergency response.  He is excited to be a part of your aviation journey. 

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Matt and his wife Jodi have two daughters, Kiley and Aubrey.  If you don’t see him at the airport, you can find him playing soccer with them in the backyard, going for a run at Burrough’s park, or washing his car in the driveway, which he tries to keep impeccably clean. 

Matt Shaunty

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OPERATIONS MANAGER

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What started as a Birthday gift, has become something so much more. With the help of Matt's golfing buddy and UFS Student, Bobby Doss, Matt's wife, Jen surprised Matt with a bag full of pilot supplies and a gift certificate to begin at United Flight Systems. So, in September 2017, Matt took his first Private Pilot lesson, and was hooked immediately. 

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Just a few months and a dozen or so lessons later, Matt met Bobby for coffee to talk about possibly partnering on a single trainer aircraft that they could use for training, while leasing it back to United Flight Systems. That cup of coffee led to a conversation with the UFS owner, Bobby Watts about his vision for the future of the school, and ultimatley in Matt and Bobby's acquisition of United Flight Systems.

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Matt's backgroung in business administration with Texas A&M's institute of Biosciences and Technology, The Texas council of Economic Education and his own company, Simplified Communications Group. He also worked at AT&T in Telecommunication Sales.

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Matt enjoys spwending time with Jen and their sons, Jordan, Jackson, and Gavin, and can be found at the Lake, on the Golf Corse, Tennis Court, or in the Kitchen with Jen.

JAY ROBINSON

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VICE PRESIDENT 

Ever since his first airplane ride from Sugar Land to Austin at a very young age, Jay Robinson has dreamed of flying. He spent his youth going to air shows, flying model airplanes, and begging his grandfather, who was a private pilot, for trips to the local airport to watch airplanes through the fence.

 

Jay always knew that he needed to turn this passion into a career and set out to become a professional pilot. He obtained a Bachelor's degree in Aviation from Westminster College in Salt Lake City, UT, along with a commercial pilot certificate, and began taking on various flying opportunities after graduation. Over the years, Jay has flown thousands of hours in a myriad of light piston and turbine aircraft in professional capacities from ferrying to contract and corporate operations.

 

Along the way, Jay always held a special place in his heart for world flight training and helping others discover aviation, starting with a part-time job at the local flight school when flying was slow. Over the years, he spent more and more time involved at the flight school, and his experience has evolved into a career in management roles with flight training operations and FBOs.

 

When he is not at work, Jay and his wife, Amanda, love to travel. They have visited over 20 countries together and counting and are always planning their next adventure.

BOBBY DOSS

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PRESIDENT & OWNER

Bobby has always been interested in aviation, but for one reason or another didn't take a lesson until he was in his 40's.  Bobby took his first lesson on May 3, 2015, at United Flight Systems and has been learning ever since!  Growing up in the area he has always seen planes flying overhead.  

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While pursuing his commercial license he considered buying a plane to lease back to United Flight Systems.  That conversation about a leaseback turned into a full acquisition with his partner and fellow UFS student, Matt Shaunty in May 2018.  Bobby acquired Matt's portion of the business in September 2020.

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Bobby has thoroughly enjoyed learning the business and working long hours in the evenings and weekends to start making improvements to the school and the fleet.  When Bobby isn't at the flight school he can often be found on the golf course watching his son or playing with his son or friends. Bobby has been married to his wife Tammie for 27 years and they have two children Emily (22) who graduated from the University of Texas and Blake (18) who is attending Concordia University in Austin, Texas playing on their golf team.

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