Meet our instructors

  • Gurwant

    Hello, my name is Gurwant and I am a Certified Flight Instructor and excited to share my passion of aviation with new pilots. I’m a Washington native and UW alumni. My aviation journey started at Auburn Municipal Airport (S50) in 2023 and it has been the most rewarding experience for me. I obtained my private pilot certificate and instrument rating in Washington before going to Midwest Corporate Air in Ohio to obtain my commercial and flight instructor ratings.

    Aviation is a fun and challenging endeavor. As a CFI safety is priority and at the forefront of every flight lesson. I ensure every flight lesson is tailored to the needs of the individual. When I’m not instructing I am working toward obtaining more ratings and constantly looking for more opportunities related to aviation. Whether you would like to fly as a professional or as a recreational pilot, the aviation community is welcoming and the journey to become a rated pilot is an amazing experience!

  • Riley

    Hi, my name is Riley Snyder. I’m a Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) with a passion for helping students become confident, knowledgeable, and safe pilots. I work with students of all experience levels and tailor each lesson to their individual goals, emphasizing real-world decision-making and practical flying skills. My goal is to create a supportive, hands-on learning environment that combines technical precision with a personalized approach to instruction.

    Before becoming a pilot, I worked as a mechanic, which helped me acquire  a deep understanding of aircraft systems and how they function beyond the cockpit. That background allows me to provide students with a well-rounded perspective on both flying and aircraft operation. When I’m not instructing, I enjoy exploring a variety of airports—including backcountry strips—and continually challenging myself to grow as a pilot.


  • Nathan

    Hi I’m Nathan, a Washington native born and raised in the Puget Sound area. I committed to full-time flight training at ATP Flight School in Texas, where I earned my CFI, CFII, MEI, and commercial multi-engine certificates through an accelerated, airline-style training program.

    Before ATP, I studied Aeronautical Science at Green River College, where I built the academic foundation that supports my instruction today — everything from flight planning and weather systems to FAA regulations and airline operations. That education gave me a deeper understanding of the "why" behind every maneuver and decision in the cockpit, and it's something I pass on to every student I work with.

    With over 300 hours of flight time in aircraft ranging from the Cessna 150 and 172 to the Piper Seminole, my flying has taken me across mountain ranges and through complex cross-country operations. I bring that same range and realism into each lesson, combining practical, scenario-based instruction with a focus on safety, confidence, and independence.

  • Sam

    Hi, I’m a Certified Flight Instructor and love helping students build skill and confidence in the air. I'm also an Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve and bring that same focus and discipline to flight training. While I will be stepping back from full time flight instruction as I transition to the airlines, I am always excited to share my passion for aviation with new pilots.