OUR TEAM

For Colin, aviation is more than a career—it's a family tradition. Inspired by his grandfather, a World War II naval aviator, Colin has spent nearly two decades in the cockpit. A Tallahassee native, retired Army aviator, and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) with a major U.S. airline, he returned home to the Big Bend in 2023 after more than 20 years of military service to share his passion for aviation with the community he calls home. Today, he is proud to help the next generation of pilots achieve their dreams through Silver Wings Aviation. And while he loves introducing others to the freedom of flight, his favorite passengers will always be his wife and two daughters.

Cliff is a fourth-generation aviator who earned his pilot certificate in 1997 and has built a diverse aviation career as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), commercial pilot, and skydive pilot. He holds CFI, Instrument, Commercial, and Multi-Engine ratings and is passionate about helping students become safe, confident pilots through structured, hands-on flight training.

Known for his fun, approachable teaching style, Cliff emphasizes aviation safety, sound decision-making, and practical flying skills that prepare students for real-world flying. His goal is to make every lesson engaging while building the knowledge and confidence needed for long-term success in aviation.

Azusa was born and raised in Japan. From an early age, while others looked forward to the destination, her favorite part of every trip was going to the airport and boarding the airplane. That lifelong fascination with aviation only grew stronger over the years. 

Before transitioning from the tech industry to becoming a flight instructor, she spent many Friday nights jogging with friends to Tokyo Haneda International Airport to watch aircraft take off and land. She is excited and passionate about helping others experience the same excitement and freedom of flight.

Nicole is a Certified Flight Instructor and second-generation aviator with more than 1,200 hours of flight experience. She provides professional flight training in both Cessna and Piper aircraft, instructing students in VFR and IFR operations. Nicole has a passion for instrument training and emphasizes strong aeronautical decision-making, solid aviation fundamentals, and building confident, safe pilots.

In addition to primary flight instruction, Nicole has experience flying multi-engine and turbine aircraft, including the Piper Seneca and TBM. Whether you're working toward your Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, or Commercial Pilot Certificate, she is committed to providing personalized, structured, and enjoyable flight training that helps every student achieve their aviation goals.

Steve is a lifelong aviator and passionate advocate for the future of aviation. His distinguished aviation career began as an Air Traffic Controller, serving for 27 years with the U.S. Air Force, the Department of Defense, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Following his air traffic control career, Steve transitioned to the cockpit, where he has spent more than 25 years flying skydiving operations and instructing pilots in general aviation aircraft. He also has over five years of experience as a glider flight instructor and tow pilot, helping introduce countless pilots to the unique challenges and rewards of soaring.

Throughout his career, Steve has contributed to a wide range of aviation operations, including aerial photography missions and aircraft support for major motion picture productions. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to aviation safety and professionalism, he was honored with the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, recognizing more than 50 years of safe and dedicated service to aviation.

Steve holds Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII), Commercial Pilot, Instrument, and Multi-Engine ratings. 

His extensive experience, calm teaching style, and dedication to mentoring pilots make him an invaluable member of our flight training team.