Chris’ fascination with aviation began in early childhood with after-church visits to
the Charlotte Airport each Sunday with his Grandmother. She would encourage him
by proclaiming “Son, you can do whatever you want to in this world!”

He enlisted in the United States Air Force shortly after graduating from high school
becoming an aircraft mechanic where he quickly learned to appreciate the value of
higher education. He later graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
with his flight ratings and was commissioned as an Air Force officer.

While serving as a maintenance officer in the Air Force reserve, Chris’ desire to fly
still burned strong. He has done a variety of aircraft pilot jobs including Air Taxi, Air
Charter, Air Ambulance, and the regional airlines. Perhaps the most life-changing
opportunity of his career was being a pilot for a humanitarian organization in
Afghanistan serving those in great need. That incited a deep commitment to using his
passions and talents to encourage, motivate and inspire others.

Currently employed as a Boeing 737 pilot for Alaska Airlines, Chris credits his work
with OBAP and the Aviation Pilot Development Program (APDP) for helping to
achieve the position he is in today. He has participated in multiple programs built to
enhance youth, such as Big Brother/Big Sisters of America, ACE Academy and
Aerospace Professionals in Schools (APIS). Chris truly believes in purpose and
hopes to use his career to bolster the message that despite challenges ahead you
can, indeed, do whatever you want to in this world!