Aviation has been central to my life for the past seven years. I’ve logged nearly 500 hours in single-engine piston aircraft, primarily in my Beechcraft Sierra C24R, which I own and operate out of Oshawa. My flying has taken me across Ontario and Quebec, throughout the eastern United States, and as far south as the Bahamas. Holding an instrument rating has shaped how I approach risk management, judgment, and real-world decision-making – skills that are just as relevant in the boardroom as they are in the cockpit.

1. Communication and Member Engagement

Pilots want to understand how decisions are made and how their voices are represented. I believe COPA can strengthen the trust it has built with its membership and its relevance to the community by:

• Improving transparency around board priorities and advocacy efforts
• Encouraging two-way dialogue with members, not just top-down communication
• Using modern platforms to better engage newer and younger pilots

2. Clear, Credible Advocacy with Government and Regulators

COPA is most effective when it is respected as knowledgeable, balanced, and solutions-oriented. Advocacy should focus on practical outcomes grounded in operational reality. My priorities include:

• Fact-based, consistent engagement with Transport Canada and policymakers
• Ensuring regulatory changes consider real-world GA operations
• Protecting reasonable access to airspace while reinforcing safety and professionalism

3. Governance, Accountability, and Board Effectiveness

Strong advocacy depends on strong governance. As a board member, my role would be to listen carefully, ask the right questions, and help set clear priorities in the long-term interest of COPA members. I bring over 30 years of experience in governance, strategy, and stakeholder engagement across corporate and not-for-profit organizations. I’ve led startups, worked as a management consultant in Canada and the U.S., and currently serve on the board of the Beech Aero Club – the global type club for the Beechcraft Musketeer family of airplanes.

4. Defending and Strengthening Community Airports

Community airports are the backbone of General Aviation, yet many face encroachment, political pressure, and misunderstanding. I’ve seen these challenges firsthand in the Toronto region and at my home airport in Oshawa. As a director, I will advocate for:

• Proactive engagement with municipalities and local stakeholders
• Practical tools to help airport users and operators protect critical infrastructure
• A national, coordinated approach to airport preservation rather than reactive advocacy

5. Supporting the Next Generation of Pilots

The future of GA depends on accessibility, mentorship, and affordability. Rising costs and complexity risk discouraging new entrants. COPA should continue to:

• Advocate for practical, affordable flight training
• Promote mentorship and education initiatives
• Clearly communicate the broader economic and community value of aviation

If elected, I would focus on:

• Financial responsibility and disciplined oversight
• Clear goals with measurable outcomes
• Respectful, collaborative decision-making within the board
• Ensuring COPA’s resources are aligned with member priorities

Why Me?

I’ve spent over 30 years building and using the skills needed to effectively govern an organization like COPA. From running start-ups in software and biotechnology, to 13 years spent as a management consultant advising the largest healthcare companies in Canada and the US on corporate growth, I’ve built a deep skillset in strategy, operations, analysis, governance. Recently, I transitioned into commercial real estate, where I help investors and institutions transact in retail plazas and multi-family properties all around Ontario. This is giving me the opportunity to learn more about – and a chance to travel more to airports across – different regions of the province. This combination of skills and exposure to aviation around the province will help understand and address the needs of our membership in Southern Ontario.

I’m not running for the COPA Board with a single issue or personal agenda. I’m running because I care deeply about General Aviation in Canada and believe COPA plays a vital role in protecting its future. If elected, I will bring a practical pilot’s perspective, strong governance discipline, and a commitment to clear communication – all in service of a strong, accessible future for GA in Canada.

COPA’s board elections are happening soon, with voting open from March 30 to April 10. If you are a COPA member, don’t forget to vote in the upcoming election. If you’re not a COPA member but General Aviation in Canada matters to you, then get involved! Join COPA so you can have your say in the upcoming election that will help determine COPA’s future direction.