Your Flight Instructors
Mike
CFI, CFII Instructor/Founder
Well regarded among peers, students, and commanders, Painted Skies founder and instructor MIKE brings a wealth of not only aviation knowledge, but instructional technique honed from a military aviation career of 20 years.
Graduate US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO
Graduate F-16 Pilot Training, Luke AFB, AZ
Instructor USAF Fighter Weapons School, Nellis AFB, NV
F-16 Fighter Squadron Commander, Hill AFB, UT
USAF Retired. Captain, Airbus 320/321
Proficient in Diamond DA-40, Cessna 150, 172 (S,P, SP, R)
A deep love for flying. A natural ability to teach. A student first mind-set.
Naomi
CFI/CFII, Principal Instructor
A highly requested flight instructor known for student tailored technique, NAOMI, brings Painted Skies extensive experience in general aviation and instruction, along with a passion for teaching and joy of flight.
Graduate— Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA
Over 1,000 hours of flight instruction
100% Check Ride and Stage Check pass rate. Experience with traditional instrumentation, mixed instrumentation, and various glass panel configurations.
Proficient in Diamond DA-40, DA-42NG. Cessna 150, 172 (S, P, SP, R). Beechcraft B23. Piper PA-28-181, PA-28-161, PA-28-151, PA-28-R. Cirrus SR20 G7.
Rick
CFI, Chief Flight Instructor
Highly experienced commercial and general aviation pilot, experienced across a wide variety of aircraft, RICK offers an unparalleled breadth of flight knowledge. A (A&P) with (IA), his technical expertise enables deep operational knowledge.
Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA
Recipient of the Wright Brother’s Master Pilot Award, 2024
Certified A&P with IA
Proficient in Diamond DA-40 XLT, 172(S, P, SP, R), Stearman, Aero Commander