Joey Rivas, originally from Puerto Rico, found his passion for aviation after graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He made the leap to Florida to pursue a career with the Navy as an engineer. While there, his fascination with aviation grew, leading him to pursue a Private Pilot License (PPL) as a hobby. Eventually, he decided to pivot towards an aviation career full-time. In 2023, Joey relocated to Tampa, where he completed his Commercial Pilot and Flight Instructor Training at Tampa Bay Aviation, solidifying his dedication to a career in the skies.

Was born and raised in Cuba. Moved to Tampa when I was 16. Went to college and almost made it to dental school, however my dream was to become a pilot so I changed careers and here I am as a cfi now.

Evan was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He was inspired to pursue aviation by his father who served in the military as a Naval Flight Officer. After College, Evan acquired his pilot’s license but took a job as a mortgage loan originator saving for flight training. Evan is eager to help make your aviation dream a reality!

Born and raised in Memphis, TN. University of Memphis Alumni. Strong mechanical background with experience in drag racing and running my own performance automotive business. ATP Graduate and previous instructor with ATP at KPIE. Aviation is my dream and passion!

Joseph is originally from New Jersey. Received all flight training and graduated with an Associates degree in Aeronautical Science from Aviator College in Fort Pierce. Hobbies include fishing, music, and skiing

Porter is Utah born and raised. Went to UVU and later Aviator College to finish flight training. Fan of outdoor activities including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.

Nik is from the City of Chicago, with a background of spending a big part of his adolescence in Toronto, ON & Jamaica where his family is from. His family is his support & motivation. His love for aviation sprouted from his parents home being in the approach path of Runway 31 at KMDW & also travelling on former airline ATA & SWA with his family at a young age. Nik is a graduate of Western Michigan University. He went on to become a Southwest Airlines Destination 225 Cadet. He has an undying love for food/cooking, music, sports & travelling. He is a former athlete with Football & Track & Field as his specialties. He has a special love for the beach, sunshine, warm weather & animals.

Blair was born in Fullerton CA and raised in Port Saint Lucie Florida where he later graduated and attended Florida State University to pursue a Bachelors of Science in Computational Science. During his undergrad Blair performed in the FSU Big 8 Drumline and trained in Air Force ROTC. Upon graduation Blair decided to pursue a career in commercial aviation and later returned home, where he worked in recruiting at Aviator College of Aeronautical Science and Technology while receiving his flying licenses. Blair is committed to leaving a legacy in aviation and creating the next generations of pilots and traditions that carry on through the Aviation Community.

Kent attended Pepperdine University for three years before entering into the world of aviation. Following that, he enrolled in ATP flight school for an intensive 11-month program, obtaining all necessary certificates. Since his first discovery flight, his passion for flying has only grown. The freedom, adventures, and constant skill refinement have become central to his journey. Kent is committed to the aviation industry and eagerly anticipates the opportunities it holds.

Clive was born in south Florida but has lived in the Tampa Bay area since he was 5 years old. He has worked in the boating industry as a technician for many years but always had a passion for aviation. In 2012 he started his journey and acquired all of his pilot and instructor ratings and loves teaching and helping others obtain their goals.

Andrew was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. He attended the University of Central Florida graduating with a Business Management degree and entered the real estate industry. He moved to Colorado and got his RE Brokers license while living in Vail and enjoying the beautiful mountains for skiing and hiking. He then decided to make his passion for flying a career and started flight training with the intention of flying for the airlines. He currently serves as a flight instructor at Tampa Bay Aviation and enjoys sharing the passion of flying with others.

Drew grew up in the suburbs of Orlando and moved over to Tampa to attend USF. Throughout college he officiated junior ice hockey in the NAHL and USHL. After graduating, he decided business wasn’t for him and began flight training. He is eager to instruct pilots and help them reach their goals.

Mekenzie grew up in St.Petersburg Fl. While working on her bachelor’s she went on a discovery flight that sparked her love for flying. She decided to make the switch to a career in aviation knowing that she would be able to continue her love for teaching while building hours instructing. Her goal is to work for one of the major airlines and explore as much of the world as possible.

Cameron was born in Davenport Iowa and has always loved all things aviation. He and his family would attend the local airshows whenever they stopped by their town. He never planned on making a career out of aviation until his junior year at Palm Harbor University High School where he took a career aptitude test and his top career recommendation was “Pilot.” After receiving the results, Cameron took a discovery flight out of Tampa Bay Aviation and fell in love with aviation all over again. He would soon enroll with TBA and complete his Private, Instrument, and Commercial licenses. He has a passion for teaching and is eager to help others achieve their goals.

Hunter was born in Mississippi and raised in Florida. He comes from an aviation family and graduated from Tampa Bay Aviation. He plans to fly EMS eventually.