The thing I am most proud of is to say, "I am a pilot!"

My journey into aviation wasn't without a few bumps along the way. I first attempted to earn my Private Pilot Certificate in 1980, but quit after just three lessons due to poor instruction. My second attempt ended after a difficult solo experience. Fortunately, I gave it another try in 1984. With the encouragement of my husband, also a pilot, and the guidance of a patient instructor, I earned my Private Pilot Certificate in July 1985, just one month after we purchased our first airplane, a Piper Cherokee 235.



Over the years, we upgraded to a Turbo Saratoga RG and eventually acquired a share in a Piper Seneca III. My passion for aviation continued to grow, leading me to earn my Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate for multi-engine aircraft, Commercial Single-Engine Land and Sea privileges, and my Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Certificate in February 2001. I have since added Instrument Instructor (CFII) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) ratings.

Today, I have accumulated more than 5,000 flight hours, including over 3,000 hours of flight instruction. My experience includes extensive mountain flying throughout the Rocky Mountain West, as well as two trips to Alaska. I've flown into every paved mountain airport in Colorado and navigated the state's mountain passes, giving me a wealth of firsthand experience in the unique challenges of high-altitude flying.

Mountain flying is one of my specialties, and I enjoy sharing that knowledge with pilots who want to develop the skills and confidence to fly safely in challenging terrain.

I am a member of the Steamboat Springs Flying Club and provide flight instruction in Steamboat Springs, Montrose, and Delta, Colorado.

After more than four decades in aviation, I'm still proud to say, "I am a pilot!" And I love helping others earn the opportunity to say the same.