Instructors

Lorenzo grew up in Genoa, Illinois, where he still resides today. His passion for aviation began in high school, when he was introduced to the field through the Kishwaukee Education Consortium Aviation program. He quickly became captivated with flying the simulators and learning ILS procedures, sparking an interest that would shape his future. Lorenzo’s first time in the cockpit was at Fly America, where he flew N24886—and that flight solidified his decision to pursue a career as a professional pilot.

After graduating high school, Lorenzo enrolled at Lewis University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Aviation Flight Technology in 2023. During his time at Lewis, he earned his private pilot certificate, instrument rating, and commercial pilot license. After completing his training, Lorenzo moved to Duluth, Minnesota, where he earned his flight instructor certificate. He began instructing with Fly America in May 2023, sharing his passion for aviation with the next generation of pilots.

Looking ahead, Lorenzo’s ultimate goal is to become an airline pilot. Outside of flying, he enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Grace is proud to be a fourth-generation pilot, continuing a rich family tradition in aviation that spans almost a century. Growing up surrounded by airplanes, Grace was inspired by her father to pursue a pilot license. She became interested in aviation at an early age and quickly became well-known for helping at the airport during the summertime.

Grace completed her first solo flight at 16 in a Cessna 152, and by 17, she was soloing in her family's taildragger. At Fly America, she earned her private pilot certificate at 18, then went on to achieve her instrument rating and commercial pilot license by the age of 20. That same year, Grace fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling to Colorado to become a flight instructor.

Grace earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Administration from Lewis University in 2023 and desires to make aviation her career. During the rare occasions she is not at the airport, Grace can be found studying at a nearby library, knitting or cooking at home, or spending time with her sister.

Grace's deep-rooted passion for aviation, shaped by her family's long history in the field, drives her commitment to passing on the skills, knowledge, and values of flight to the next generation. As a flight instructor, she emphasizes safety in all aspects of flying, with a particular focus on weather, emergencies, and human factors. Drawing from both her personal experiences and her family's aviation legacy, Grace provides students with a well-rounded, comprehensive flight training experience, ensuring they are not only skilled pilots but also well-prepared for any challenges in the skies.

Eric grew up and currently lives in Sugar Grove, Illinois. He was first introduced to aviation when he took a discovery flight in 2010 at an EAA Young Eagles rally in a Cessna 150. From that experience, he caught the flying bug and eagerly began pursuing a life in aviation by spending countless hours building remote control aircraft, constructing and painting aircraft models, and flying in flight simulators.

After graduating from high school, Eric earned his private pilot certificate. During his private pilot training, his instructor introduced him to other aspects of flying, including aerobatics and tailwheel flying, during a lesson about spins. This experience was a pivotal moment for Eric, as these specialized skills ignited a passion for aerobatics and tailwheel flying. From that point forward, he became dedicated to honing his abilities in those disciplines and still practices both to this day.

Eric earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Commercial Aviation from the University of North Dakota in 2024. During his time there, he earned his instrument rating, his commercial license, his multi-engine license, and his flight instructor certificates. This rigorous training laid a strong foundation for his career in aviation. Upon graduating, Eric returned to Illinois and decided to work for us, sharing his knowledge and passion for flying with aspiring pilots.

Looking ahead, Eric strives for a career in the airlines, but he also dreams of one day restoring and flying vintage warbirds. Outside of his aviation pursuits, Eric enjoys a variety of hobbies, including fishing, swimming, and baking, which offer him relaxation and a creative outlet when he's not in the skies.

Wes received his private license at the University of Illinois Institute of Aviation and his commercial from Greater Kankakee School of Aeronautics before graduating with a degree in education.

He was in the Air Force for 9 years, received his wings at Laughlin AFB in TX, and flew the F-100 and F-4 fighters. He was also Wing Instrument School ground instructor. Wes flew for United Airlines for 29 years and is typed in all Boeings, 727 through 777, as well as the Cessna Citation. He was a check captain on the B-727.

He is an ATP, CFII, and MEI. He has flown for 53 years and has 22,500 hours flight experience.

Wes does Flight Reviews, Instrument Proficiency checks, aircraft checkouts (complex and high-performance), and re-currency checks. "I like to stress safety in all aspects of flying and encourage enjoyment in flying. It should be fun."