“We need to identify the talented and motivated students.  Give them a comprehensive ‘mission experience’ - and help jump start their STEM or Pilot careers.  Our focus should not be on quantity of students, but on the quality.  Lets fill the void of a sample flight with a customized event”.  

Dave Brubaker, former USAF Fighter Pilot and STEM Flights founder. 

Sam began flying at a young age in his uncle’s vintage Stearman. From those early days, he saw the love of flying among pilots. He also saw the great care, knowledge, and thought that went into each flight.  The background and expertise in STEM and aviation was essential to each mission and to a broader and more in-depth understanding of the world.  Sam believes that we are all responsible for making this knowledge and opportunity to students and youth so that they can carry it forward to the next generation.

Retired Brigadier General and F-16 Pilot, Bobbi was the first female fighter pilot selected by the Iowa Air National Guard after the law was changed in 1993. She is currently flying as First Officer for American Airlines and serves on the Board of Directors of the White House Fellows.  In addition to an F-16 pilot, she was  Wing Commander of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Predator unit.  Bobbi is an experienced pilot with a passion for mentoring youth. Bobbi believes that dedication to service and leadership are important qualities for STEM Flights students to learn through flight experiences.  

As the Head of Aviation for Lincoln Financial, Ryan Tollini has over 8,000 hours of flight time accumulated in his professional life. His passion for safety and flying won him recognition from the National Business Aviation Association, which awarded him as Top 40 Under 40 in the aviation industry. Involved with several industry groups, Ryan serves on NBAA’s Safety Committee, FAA’s Safety Team and as an FAA designated pilot examiner. Ryan serves as a Pilot Mentor and Volunteer for STEM Flights, where he relishes the opportunity to guide young pilots and promote safety best practices.

A retired Air Force Major General and international airline Captain for Delta, Gen Bradley has flown numerous aircraft and holds an FAA Remote pilot license. He’s also a former F-16 fighter pilot and MQ-9 Predator Wing Commander with extensive experience in Cyber Warfare and Communications.  Omar has experienced firsthand the benefit of early mentoring and believes this was key to him finding his life’s passion. As Vice President, Operations & Chief Pilot for STEM Flights, Omar will help expand our program nationally and inspire new volunteer Pilot Mentors.