For over 40 years, Universal Flight Concepts Founder and CEO Dr. Gordon A. Jiroux, h.c. has set the standard for excellence in flight instruction. As an FAA Safety Board member with an impeccable safety record and sterling reputation, Dr. Jiroux is widely considered to be one of the most knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the flight training industry.
Under his watchful eye, each of our training locations is managed by one high-time company-trained Director. Known and respected industry-wide, most of our Directors are FAA Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) with 10,000+ hours of instruction given and numerous professional accolades of their own. Danny Mackenzie, Matt Hewlett, Dustin Suchor, Kelsey Lawyer, Doug Sharpe, and John Lewis represent the very best flight training professionals in the industry. We are proud to say most have been with us for 20+ years!
Every member of our team is an integral part of our continuing to provide the safe, extraordinary flight and ground training Universal is known for.
To learn more about our core administrative team, please see below.
For over 40 years, Universal Flight Concepts Founder and CEO Dr. Gordon A. Jiroux, h.c. has set the standard for excellence in flight instruction. As an FAA Safety Board member with an impeccable safety record and sterling reputation, Dr. Jiroux is widely considered to be one of the most knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the flight training industry.
Under his watchful eye, each of our training locations is managed by one high-time company-trained Director. Known and respected industry-wide, most of our Directors are FAA Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) with 10,000+ hours of instruction given and numerous professional accolades of their own. Danny Mackenzie, Matt Hewlett, Dustin Suchor, Kelsey Lawyer, Doug Sharpe, and John Lewis represent the very best flight training professionals in the industry. We are proud to say most have been with us for 20+ years!
Every member of our team is an integral part of our continuing to provide the safe, extraordinary flight and ground training Universal is known for.
To learn more about our core administrative team, please see below.
41
Universal-Trained Instructors
41
Universal-Trained Instructors
41
Universal-Trained Mentored Instructors
13
Administrative Directors
13
Administrative Directors
13
Administrative Directors
10
A&P / A&P/IA Mechanics
10
A&P / A&P/IA Mechanics
10
A&P / A&P/IA Mechanics
Currently Employed as of 10/1/22
Our Core Administrative Team:
Our Core Administrative Team:
Our Core Administrative Team:
Dr. Gordon A. Jiroux, h.c.
CEO | President
Gordon is widely considered to be one of the most knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the flight training industry. His extraordinary career began in 1981 when at just 25 years old, he earned his Private, Commercial, and Certified Flight Instructor helicopter certificates in Long Beach, California. He now recognizes his good fortune, having chosen Pacific Wing & Rotor for his training, the first flight school in the world to receive a Robinson R22. During his tenure at Pacific Wing & Rotor, Gordon was a stand-out flight instructor who quickly became friends with Robinson Helicopter Company Founder, Frank Robinson. Mr. Robinson recognized a budding market for flight training and asked Gordon to open a helicopter flight school in the small desert town of Scottsdale, Arizona. Gordon purchased an R22 (Serial #4!) and moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, to open his flight school — and his legacy began.
By 1983, at the age of 27, the FAA designated Gordon the position of Pilot Examiner in the Robinson R22. Gordon’s dedication to quality and safety made him the obvious choice in 1983, when the Robinson Helicopter Company issued him the Dealership/Service Center Designation for Arizona. By 1990 his company was the largest helicopter flight school in the world, with 18 Robinson R22s and three Bell 206 Jet Rangers flying 8+ hours a day.
Today after nearly 40 years of flying and 10,000+ hours of flight instruction given, Gordon continues to define the standard for excellence in helicopter flight training. As part of a prolific safety team with an impeccable safety record and sterling reputation, his passion for providing exemplary flight training has led Universal Flight Concepts to be one of the most renowned flight schools in the world.
In 2010, Universal Helicopters, a Universal Flight Concepts subsidiary, became the first and only company ever contracted to provide flight training in support of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Helicopter Program.
Gordon received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Aviation Science with all rights, honors, privileges, and responsibilities on May 4, 2013. Jiroux was awarded this designation in appreciation of his outstanding contributions to the flight training industry, extraordinary aviation knowledge, and dedication to the global aviation industry.
In 2014, now Dr. Jiroux, Gordon was awarded Helicopter Association International’s (HAI) Flight Instructor of the Year Award.
In 2018, Dr. Jiroux recognized an increased need for airplane training in America, and expanded Universal’s operations to include an Airline Pilot Career Program. Shortly thereafter, the prestigious Baylor University selected Universal Flight Concepts to provide all of the flight and ground training in support of their Aviation Sciences Program.
In 2019, Universal Helicopters became the first flight school in U.S. history to enter into a contract with Bell/Textron as a Bell Certified Training Facility (CTF), a contract Universal earned under Dr. Jiroux’s leadership for his long outstanding commitment to excellence, and propensity for safety.
After all these years, Gordon remains intimately involved with all operations at Universal Flight Concepts, mentoring and passing his knowledge and expertise on to our flight instructors.
Dr. Gordon A. Jiroux, h.c.
CEO | President
Gordon is widely considered to be one of the most knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the flight training industry. His extraordinary career began in 1981 when at just 25 years old, he earned his Private, Commercial, and Certified Flight Instructor helicopter certificates in Long Beach, California. He now recognizes his good fortune, having chosen Pacific Wing & Rotor for his training, the first flight school in the world to receive a Robinson R22. During his tenure at Pacific Wing & Rotor, Gordon was a stand-out flight instructor who quickly became friends with Robinson Helicopter Company Founder, Frank Robinson. Mr. Robinson recognized a budding market for flight training and asked Gordon to open a helicopter flight school in the small desert town of Scottsdale, Arizona. Gordon purchased an R22 (Serial #4!) and moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, to open his flight school — and his legacy began.
By 1983, at the age of 27, the FAA designated Gordon the position of Pilot Examiner in the Robinson R22. Gordon’s dedication to quality and safety made him the obvious choice in 1983, when the Robinson Helicopter Company issued him the Dealership/Service Center Designation for Arizona. By 1990 his company was the largest helicopter flight school in the world, with 18 Robinson R22s and three Bell 206 Jet Rangers flying 8+ hours a day.
Today after nearly 40 years of flying and 10,000+ hours of flight instruction given, Gordon continues to define the standard for excellence in helicopter flight training. As part of a prolific safety team with an impeccable safety record and sterling reputation, his passion for providing exemplary flight training has led Universal Flight Concepts to be one of the most renowned flight schools in the world.
In 2010, Universal Helicopters, a Universal Flight Concepts subsidiary, became the first and only company ever contracted to provide flight training in support of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Helicopter Program.
Gordon received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Aviation Science with all rights, honors, privileges, and responsibilities on May 4, 2013. Jiroux was awarded this designation in appreciation of his outstanding contributions to the flight training industry, extraordinary aviation knowledge, and dedication to the global aviation industry.
In 2014, now Dr. Jiroux, Gordon was awarded Helicopter Association International’s (HAI) Flight Instructor of the Year Award.
In 2018, Dr. Jiroux recognized an increased need for airplane training in America, and expanded Universal’s operations to include an Airline Pilot Career Program. Shortly thereafter, the prestigious Baylor University selected Universal Flight Concepts to provide all of the flight and ground training in support of their Aviation Sciences Program.
In 2019, Universal Helicopters became the first flight school in U.S. history to enter into a contract with Bell/Textron as a Bell Certified Training Facility (CTF), a contract Universal earned under Dr. Jiroux’s leadership for his long outstanding commitment to excellence, and propensity for safety.
After all these years, Gordon remains intimately involved with all operations at Universal Flight Concepts, mentoring and passing his knowledge and expertise on to our flight instructors.
Dr. Gordon A. Jiroux, h.c.
CEO | President
Gordon is widely considered to be one of the most knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the flight training industry. His extraordinary career began in 1981 when at just 25 years old, he earned his Private, Commercial, and Certified Flight Instructor helicopter certificates in Long Beach, California. He now recognizes his good fortune, having chosen Pacific Wing & Rotor for his training, the first flight school in the world to receive a Robinson R22. During his tenure at Pacific Wing & Rotor, Gordon was a stand-out flight instructor who quickly became friends with Robinson Helicopter Company Founder, Frank Robinson. Mr. Robinson recognized a budding market for flight training and asked Gordon to open a helicopter flight school in the small desert town of Scottsdale, Arizona. Gordon purchased an R22 (Serial #4!) and moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, to open his flight school — and his legacy began.
By 1983, at the age of 27, the FAA designated Gordon the position of Pilot Examiner in the Robinson R22. Gordon’s dedication to quality and safety made him the obvious choice in 1983, when the Robinson Helicopter Company issued him the Dealership/Service Center Designation for Arizona. By 1990 his company was the largest helicopter flight school in the world, with 18 Robinson R22s and three Bell 206 Jet Rangers flying 8+ hours a day.
Today after nearly 40 years of flying and 10,000+ hours of flight instruction given, Gordon continues to define the standard for excellence in helicopter flight training. As part of a prolific safety team with an impeccable safety record and sterling reputation, his passion for providing exemplary flight training has led Universal Flight Concepts to be one of the most renowned flight schools in the world.
In 2010, Universal Helicopters, a Universal Flight Concepts subsidiary, became the first and only company ever contracted to provide flight training in support of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Helicopter Program.
Gordon received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Aviation Science with all rights, honors, privileges, and responsibilities on May 4, 2013. Jiroux was awarded this designation in appreciation of his outstanding contributions to the flight training industry, extraordinary aviation knowledge, and dedication to the global aviation industry.
In 2014, now Dr. Jiroux, Gordon was awarded Helicopter Association International’s (HAI) Flight Instructor of the Year Award.
In 2018, Dr. Jiroux recognized an increased need for airplane training in America, and expanded Universal’s operations to include an Airline Pilot Career Program. Shortly thereafter, the prestigious Baylor University selected Universal Flight Concepts to provide all of the flight and ground training in support of their Aviation Sciences Program.
In 2019, Universal Helicopters became the first flight school in U.S. history to enter into a contract with Bell/Textron as a Bell Certified Training Facility (CTF), a contract Universal earned under Dr. Jiroux’s leadership for his long outstanding commitment to excellence, and propensity for safety.
After all these years, Gordon remains intimately involved with all operations at Universal Flight Concepts, mentoring and passing his knowledge and expertise on to our flight instructors.
Danny Mackenzie
COO | Chief Pilot
Danny Mackenzie graduated from our Helicopter Pilot Career program 25 years ago and distinguished himself as a trailblazer early on. He accomplished all of his certificates and ratings in record completion time while maintaining an outstanding academic and practical performance standard. Danny has developed into an accomplished aviator with an unblemished record and devoted executive for Universal throughout his tenure.
In 2019, Danny helped secure our contract with Bell/Textron, making Universal Helicopters the first and only Bell Certified Training Facility in the history of the U.S. As a Bell Factory-Certified Instructor, he supports our Bell Training and Sales departments, often accompanying new owners during delivery and acceptance of their new aircraft.
In 2020, Mr. Mackenzie obtained his airplane add-on certificates through CFII. He is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 helicopter courses and Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 airplane courses.
In addition to having his Bachelor’s Degree of Science from Northern Arizona University, Danny is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, has acted as a Robinson Helicopter Factory Safety Pilot, and has presented at numerous aviation safety seminars, including the HAI Heli-Expo.
Mr. Mackenzie is a highly-distinguished flight instructor and is known throughout the aviation industry. We are proud to have him as our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Pilot. Danny has been an instrumental part of Universal for more than 20 years and is directly responsible for our continued success.
Danny Mackenzie
COO | Chief Pilot
Danny Mackenzie graduated from our Helicopter Pilot Career program 25 years ago and distinguished himself as a trailblazer early on. He accomplished all of his certificates and ratings in record completion time while maintaining an outstanding academic and practical performance standard. Danny has developed into an accomplished aviator with an unblemished record and devoted executive for Universal throughout his tenure.
In 2019, Danny helped secure our contract with Bell/Textron, making Universal Helicopters the first and only Bell Certified Training Facility in the history of the U.S. As a Bell Factory-Certified Instructor, he supports our Bell Training and Sales departments, often accompanying new owners during delivery and acceptance of their new aircraft.
In 2020, Mr. Mackenzie obtained his airplane add-on certificates through CFII. He is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 helicopter courses and Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 airplane courses.
In addition to having his Bachelor’s Degree of Science from Northern Arizona University, Danny is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, has acted as a Robinson Helicopter Factory Safety Pilot, and has presented at numerous aviation safety seminars, including the HAI Heli-Expo.
Mr. Mackenzie is a highly-distinguished flight instructor and is known throughout the aviation industry. We are proud to have him as our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Pilot. Danny has been an instrumental part of Universal for more than 20 years and is directly responsible for our continued success.
Danny Mackenzie
COO | Chief Pilot
Danny Mackenzie graduated from our Helicopter Pilot Career program 25 years ago and distinguished himself as a trailblazer early on. He accomplished all of his certificates and ratings in record completion time while maintaining an outstanding academic and practical performance standard. Danny has developed into an accomplished aviator with an unblemished record and devoted executive for Universal throughout his tenure.
In 2019, Danny helped secure our contract with Bell/Textron, making Universal Helicopters the first and only Bell Certified Training Facility in the history of the U.S. As a Bell Factory-Certified Instructor, he supports our Bell Training and Sales departments, often accompanying new owners during delivery and acceptance of their new aircraft.
In 2020, Mr. Mackenzie obtained his airplane add-on certificates through CFII. He is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 helicopter courses and Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 airplane courses.
In addition to having his Bachelor’s Degree of Science from Northern Arizona University, Danny is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, has acted as a Robinson Helicopter Factory Safety Pilot, and has presented at numerous aviation safety seminars, including the HAI Heli-Expo.
Mr. Mackenzie is a highly-distinguished flight instructor and is known throughout the aviation industry. We are proud to have him as our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Pilot. Danny has been an instrumental part of Universal for more than 20 years and is directly responsible for our continued success.
Matt Hewlett
Chief Flight Instructor
Matt “Hewy” Hewlett is the Director of Operations for our Provo training location and has been with Universal Helicopters since 2003. Matt initially began his flight training as a hobby at our Provo location, but quickly discovered a deep passion for flying. He made major changes in his life and career so he could devote all his time to embrace aviation and become a career pilot. He considers himself lucky to have met affluent and well-respected individuals that mentored him as he grew and developed as a pilot, instructor, and examiner.
In addition to being an ATP Helicopter Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor, Matt is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management.
Matt is happily married since 1998 and has 5 children and 3 grandchildren. He loves the outdoors including motorcycle riding, fishing, hunting and working out with his wife. He and his wife enjoy road trips and spending quality time together as a family.
Matt is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 helicopter courses. He is also a Station Manager for our Part 145 Repair Station. He is an integral part of Universal’s management, and is an instrumental part of our Bell and Robinson Sales Department.
Matt Hewlett
Chief Flight Instructor
Matt “Hewy” Hewlett is the Director of Operations for our Provo training location and has been with Universal Helicopters since 2003. Matt initially began his flight training as a hobby at our Provo location, but quickly discovered a deep passion for flying. He made major changes in his life and career so he could devote all his time to embrace aviation and become a career pilot. He considers himself lucky to have met affluent and well-respected individuals that mentored him as he grew and developed as a pilot, instructor, and examiner.
In addition to being an ATP Helicopter Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor, Matt is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management.
Matt is happily married since 1998 and has 5 children and 3 grandchildren. He loves the outdoors including motorcycle riding, fishing, hunting and working out with his wife. He and his wife enjoy road trips and spending quality time together as a family.
Matt is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 helicopter courses. He is also a Station Manager for our Part 145 Repair Station. He is an integral part of Universal’s management, and is an instrumental part of our Bell and Robinson Sales Department.
Matt Hewlett
Chief Flight Instructor
Matt “Hewy” Hewlett is the Director of Operations for our Provo training location and has been with Universal Helicopters since 2003. Matt initially began his flight training as a hobby at our Provo location, but quickly discovered a deep passion for flying. He made major changes in his life and career so he could devote all his time to embrace aviation and become a career pilot. He considers himself lucky to have met affluent and well-respected individuals that mentored him as he grew and developed as a pilot, instructor, and examiner.
In addition to being an ATP Helicopter Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor, Matt is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management.
Matt is happily married since 1998 and has 5 children and 3 grandchildren. He loves the outdoors including motorcycle riding, fishing, hunting and working out with his wife. He and his wife enjoy road trips and spending quality time together as a family.
Matt is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved Part 141 helicopter courses. He is also a Station Manager for our Part 145 Repair Station. He is an integral part of Universal’s management, and is an instrumental part of our Bell and Robinson Sales Department.
Dustin Suchor
Chief Flight Intructor
Dustin came to Universal with his Private Pilot Certificate for Airplanes, and completed our Helicopter Pilot Career Program in July 2004. He has been one of our best instructors for nearly 20 years and is currently the Director of Operations for our Scottsdale training location. He often travels in support of our Waco training location and the Baylor University Aviation Sciences Program.
In 2019, Dustin obtained all of his add-on Airplane Certificates and Ratings through CFII and is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 airplane courses, and Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses.
Dustin is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Global Business with emphasis on Leadership and Management from Arizona State University. He also holds an Associate’s Degree from Scottsdale Community College in Business Administration.
Dustin is a father of two and enjoys time with his children and being outdoors.
Dustin Suchor
Chief Flight Intructor
Dustin came to Universal with his Private Pilot Certificate for Airplanes, and completed our Helicopter Pilot Career Program in July 2004. He has been one of our best instructors for nearly 20 years and is currently the Director of Operations for our Scottsdale training location. He often travels in support of our Waco training location and the Baylor University Aviation Sciences Program.
In 2019, Dustin obtained all of his add-on Airplane Certificates and Ratings through CFII and is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 airplane courses, and Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses.
Dustin is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Global Business with emphasis on Leadership and Management from Arizona State University. He also holds an Associate’s Degree from Scottsdale Community College in Business Administration.
Dustin is a father of two and enjoys time with his children and being outdoors.
Dustin Suchor
Chief Flight Intructor
Dustin came to Universal with his Private Pilot Certificate for Airplanes, and completed our Helicopter Pilot Career Program in July 2004. He has been one of our best instructors for nearly 20 years and is currently the Director of Operations for our Scottsdale training location. He often travels in support of our Waco training location and the Baylor University Aviation Sciences Program.
In 2019, Dustin obtained all of his add-on Airplane Certificates and Ratings through CFII and is an Authorized Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 airplane courses, and Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses.
Dustin is an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Global Business with emphasis on Leadership and Management from Arizona State University. He also holds an Associate’s Degree from Scottsdale Community College in Business Administration.
Dustin is a father of two and enjoys time with his children and being outdoors.
Kelsey Lawyer
Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
Kelsey was an exceptional student long before she became an exceptional instructor and Director. She began her helicopter flight training with us in 2019 and finished in just under 12 months. While working as a helicopter flight instructor a few years later, Kelsey went on to earn all of her airplane add-on certificates through CFII in just one month! She has since proven herself to be an extraordinary instructor and remains one of the only dual-category-rated Certified Flight Instructors in our history.
Kelsey Lawyer
Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
Kelsey was an exceptional student long before she became an exceptional instructor and Director. She began her helicopter flight training with us in 2019 and finished in just under 12 months. While working as a helicopter flight instructor a few years later, Kelsey went on to earn all of her airplane add-on certificates through CFII in just one month! She has since proven herself to be an extraordinary instructor and remains one of the only dual-category-rated Certified Flight Instructors in our history.
Kelsey Lawyer
Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
Kelsey was an exceptional student long before she became an exceptional instructor and Director. She began her helicopter flight training with us in 2019 and finished in just under 12 months. While working as a helicopter flight instructor a few years later, Kelsey went on to earn all of her airplane add-on certificates through CFII in just one month! She has since proven herself to be an extraordinary instructor and remains one of the only dual-category-rated Certified Flight Instructors in our history.
Alan Hall
Director of Maintenance
Alan joined Universal in 2013 with over 23 years of aviation maintenance experience. He is an A&P Certified Technician with Inspection Authorization (IA). Prior to working with Universal, Alan served as the Director of Maintenance and Quality Control at a well-known service center that supported Bell, Robinson, Airbus and MD Helicopters. He is known and respected industry-wide, and a valuable asset to Universal.
Now, with over 32 years of experience, Alan serves as the Director of Maintenance and Quality Control for our Part 61 & 141 Flight School and Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. He also manages our Part 145 Repair Station / Service Center for Robinson R66 helicopters and Rolls Royce RR300 engines.
Alan has been instrumental in the initialization and continued support of our newest Bell 505 Training and Sales Department, ensuring our customers’ aircraft are maintained and supported to the highest level for unimpeded training and operations.
Alan and his carefully selected team of similarly qualified technicians ensure that our aircraft are meticulously maintained to the highest standard attainable, ensuring everyone’s safety and experience is unsurpassed.
Alan Hall
Director of Maintenance
Alan joined Universal in 2013 with over 23 years of aviation maintenance experience. He is an A&P Certified Technician with Inspection Authorization (IA). Prior to working with Universal, Alan served as the Director of Maintenance and Quality Control at a well-known service center that supported Bell, Robinson, Airbus and MD Helicopters. He is known and respected industry-wide, and a valuable asset to Universal.
Now, with over 32 years of experience, Alan serves as the Director of Maintenance and Quality Control for our Part 61 & 141 Flight School and Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. He also manages our Part 145 Repair Station / Service Center for Robinson R66 helicopters and Rolls Royce RR300 engines.
Alan has been instrumental in the initialization and continued support of our newest Bell 505 Training and Sales Department, ensuring our customers’ aircraft are maintained and supported to the highest level for unimpeded training and operations.
Alan and his carefully selected team of similarly qualified technicians ensure that our aircraft are meticulously maintained to the highest standard attainable, ensuring everyone’s safety and experience is unsurpassed.
Alan Hall
Director of Maintenance
Alan joined Universal in 2013 with over 23 years of aviation maintenance experience. He is an A&P Certified Technician with Inspection Authorization (IA). Prior to working with Universal, Alan served as the Director of Maintenance and Quality Control at a well-known service center that supported Bell, Robinson, Airbus and MD Helicopters. He is known and respected industry-wide, and a valuable asset to Universal.
Now, with over 32 years of experience, Alan serves as the Director of Maintenance and Quality Control for our Part 61 & 141 Flight School and Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. He also manages our Part 145 Repair Station / Service Center for Robinson R66 helicopters and Rolls Royce RR300 engines.
Alan has been instrumental in the initialization and continued support of our newest Bell 505 Training and Sales Department, ensuring our customers’ aircraft are maintained and supported to the highest level for unimpeded training and operations.
Alan and his carefully selected team of similarly qualified technicians ensure that our aircraft are meticulously maintained to the highest standard attainable, ensuring everyone’s safety and experience is unsurpassed.
Doug Sharpe
Assistant Director
Doug began his flight training at the our Scottsdale location in the summer of 2006 and finished all of his certificates and ratings by early 2007.
After three years working as a professional flight instructor, Doug left the training industry to gain more experience in Part 135 helicopter operations. In his years out of the training environment, Doug flew tours in Alaska, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. He also provided support in the offshore oil industry flying helicopters in the Gulf of Mexico. Doug has worked for many of the top helicopter operators in the world, with time logged in a diverse range of turbine-powered aircraft.
Since rejoining Universal in 2013, Doug became a Bell Factory-Certified Instructor and supports our Bell 206 and 505 training programs, Turbine Transition training, and Night Vision Goggles (NVG) courses. He is a very knowledgeable training professional, often named a “favorite instructor” in our post-graduate surveys.
Doug holds an Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences and in his spare time, enjoys spending time with his wife, watching movies, being outdoors and traveling. He is an Authorized Check Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses and Assistant Director of our Scottsdale training location.
Doug Sharpe
Assistant Director
Doug began his flight training at the our Scottsdale location in the summer of 2006 and finished all of his certificates and ratings by early 2007.
After three years working as a professional flight instructor, Doug left the training industry to gain more experience in Part 135 helicopter operations. In his years out of the training environment, Doug flew tours in Alaska, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. He also provided support in the offshore oil industry flying helicopters in the Gulf of Mexico. Doug has worked for many of the top helicopter operators in the world, with time logged in a diverse range of turbine-powered aircraft.
Since rejoining Universal in 2013, Doug became a Bell Factory-Certified Instructor and supports our Bell 206 and 505 training programs, Turbine Transition training, and Night Vision Goggles (NVG) courses. He is a very knowledgeable training professional, often named a “favorite instructor” in our post-graduate surveys.
Doug holds an Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences and in his spare time, enjoys spending time with his wife, watching movies, being outdoors and traveling. He is an Authorized Check Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses and Assistant Director of our Scottsdale training location.
Doug Sharpe
Assistant Director
Doug began his flight training at the our Scottsdale location in the summer of 2006 and finished all of his certificates and ratings by early 2007.
After three years working as a professional flight instructor, Doug left the training industry to gain more experience in Part 135 helicopter operations. In his years out of the training environment, Doug flew tours in Alaska, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. He also provided support in the offshore oil industry flying helicopters in the Gulf of Mexico. Doug has worked for many of the top helicopter operators in the world, with time logged in a diverse range of turbine-powered aircraft.
Since rejoining Universal in 2013, Doug became a Bell Factory-Certified Instructor and supports our Bell 206 and 505 training programs, Turbine Transition training, and Night Vision Goggles (NVG) courses. He is a very knowledgeable training professional, often named a “favorite instructor” in our post-graduate surveys.
Doug holds an Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences and in his spare time, enjoys spending time with his wife, watching movies, being outdoors and traveling. He is an Authorized Check Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses and Assistant Director of our Scottsdale training location.
John Lewis
Administrator
John started his training in 2004 at our Provo, Utah, location, completing our Helicopter Pilot Career Program in 2005. John has since been an incredible instructor for Universal. He has served in many leadership positions and supported just about every department we have. He has helped structure all of our training materials and Part 141 Certificates alongside CEO Dr. Gordon Jiroux, h.c., and currently serves as our Foreign Student Specialist.
John is an Authorized Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses and enjoys spending time with his family, working in his garage, and being outdoors.
John Lewis
Administrator
John started his training in 2004 at our Provo, Utah, location, completing our Helicopter Pilot Career Program in 2005. John has since been an incredible instructor for Universal. He has served in many leadership positions and supported just about every department we have. He has helped structure all of our training materials and Part 141 Certificates alongside CEO Dr. Gordon Jiroux, h.c., and currently serves as our Foreign Student Specialist.
John is an Authorized Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses and enjoys spending time with his family, working in his garage, and being outdoors.
John Lewis
Administrator
John started his training in 2004 at our Provo, Utah, location, completing our Helicopter Pilot Career Program in 2005. John has since been an incredible instructor for Universal. He has served in many leadership positions and supported just about every department we have. He has helped structure all of our training materials and Part 141 Certificates alongside CEO Dr. Gordon Jiroux, h.c., and currently serves as our Foreign Student Specialist.
John is an Authorized Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter courses and enjoys spending time with his family, working in his garage, and being outdoors.
Christen McIlvoy
Controller
Christen joined Universal in 2013 with 10 years of coordinating, auditing, accounting bookkeeping experience.
She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology and an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Arizona State University. She is also taking real estate courses in her spare time. Says Christen, “I have to feel like I’m always learning to be happy in life.”
Christen has three children and loves the outdoors, hiking, biking and running. She loves anything science fiction, reading, puzzles and animals.
Christen McIlvoy
Controller
Christen joined Universal in 2013 with 10 years of coordinating, auditing, accounting bookkeeping experience.
She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology and an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Arizona State University. She is also taking real estate courses in her spare time. Says Christen, “I have to feel like I’m always learning to be happy in life.”
Christen has three children and loves the outdoors, hiking, biking and running. She loves anything science fiction, reading, puzzles and animals.
Christen McIlvoy
Controller
Christen joined Universal in 2013 with 10 years of coordinating, auditing, accounting bookkeeping experience.
She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology and an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Arizona State University. She is also taking real estate courses in her spare time. Says Christen, “I have to feel like I’m always learning to be happy in life.”
Christen has three children and loves the outdoors, hiking, biking and running. She loves anything science fiction, reading, puzzles and animals.
Garret Jiroux
Marketing Director
Garret began flying helicopters at the age of 14. Having always wanted to be a helicopter pilot, he first soloed on his 16th birthday in 2002 and earned his Certified Flight Instructor Instrument Certificate just after his 18th birthday. He served as an instructor at our Scottsdale training facility for three years, working exclusively within our CFI course alongside Chief Pilot, Danny Mackenzie, before stepping back to pursue other ventures.
Garret created and launched a consumer iOS app in 2015 to nationwide acclaim, having earned hundreds of thousands of downloads in its first month. In June of 2015, that app was awarded a “Best New App” recognition on Apple’s App Store.
He rejoined the Universal team in 2019, having identified the need to bolster our marketing efforts in today’s evolving digital landscape. In addition to serving as our Marketing Director, Garret supports many other administrative and technical departments.
Garret Jiroux
Marketing Director
Garret began flying helicopters at the age of 14. Having always wanted to be a helicopter pilot, he first soloed on his 16th birthday in 2002 and earned his Certified Flight Instructor Instrument Certificate just after his 18th birthday. He served as an instructor at our Scottsdale training facility for three years, working exclusively within our CFI course alongside Chief Pilot, Danny Mackenzie, before stepping back to pursue other ventures.
Garret created and launched a consumer iOS app in 2015 to nationwide acclaim, having earned hundreds of thousands of downloads in its first month. In June of 2015, that app was awarded a “Best New App” recognition on Apple’s App Store.
He rejoined the Universal team in 2019, having identified the need to bolster our marketing efforts in today’s evolving digital landscape. In addition to serving as our Marketing Director, Garret supports many other administrative and technical departments.
Garret Jiroux
Marketing Director
Garret began flying helicopters at the age of 14. Having always wanted to be a helicopter pilot, he first soloed on his 16th birthday in 2002 and earned his Certified Flight Instructor Instrument Certificate just after his 18th birthday. He served as an instructor at our Scottsdale training facility for three years, working exclusively within our CFI course alongside Chief Pilot, Danny Mackenzie, before stepping back to pursue other ventures.
Garret created and launched a consumer iOS app in 2015 to nationwide acclaim, having earned hundreds of thousands of downloads in its first month. In June of 2015, that app was awarded a “Best New App” recognition on Apple’s App Store.
He rejoined the Universal team in 2019, having identified the need to bolster our marketing efforts in today’s evolving digital landscape. In addition to serving as our Marketing Director, Garret supports many other administrative and technical departments.
Scotty Allen
Assistant Director
Scotty has been with us for 7 years. He holds a Dual Associate’s Degree in Aviation Maintenance with 15+ years of aviation maintenance experience. He is an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic with FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) and also holds is Private Pilot Airplane certificate.
When not at work, Scotty and his wife enjoy playing competitive paintball. He also enjoys TIG welding, photography, and spending time with this friends and family. Scotty’s wife is prior military and now works for the FAA, and his son is active duty in the US Army.
Scotty Allen
Assistant Director
Scotty has been with us for 7 years. He holds a Dual Associate’s Degree in Aviation Maintenance with 15+ years of aviation maintenance experience. He is an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic with FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) and also holds is Private Pilot Airplane certificate.
When not at work, Scotty and his wife enjoy playing competitive paintball. He also enjoys TIG welding, photography, and spending time with this friends and family. Scotty’s wife is prior military and now works for the FAA, and his son is active duty in the US Army.
Scotty Allen
Assistant Director
Scotty has been with us for 7 years. He holds a Dual Associate’s Degree in Aviation Maintenance with 15+ years of aviation maintenance experience. He is an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic with FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) and also holds is Private Pilot Airplane certificate.
When not at work, Scotty and his wife enjoy playing competitive paintball. He also enjoys TIG welding, photography, and spending time with this friends and family. Scotty’s wife is prior military and now works for the FAA, and his son is active duty in the US Army.
Mitch Hall
Assistant Director
Mitch is the newest member of our administrative team. He began with Universal in 2016 at our Provo training location. He has since become a dual-rated CFII, holding his Private, Commercial, Instrument, CFI, and CFII certificates in both helicopters and airplanes. He currently supports both our Helicopter Pilot Career Program and Airline Pilot Career Program as a flight instructor, traveling between locations often to assist where he’s needed most.
Additionally, he is beginning to aid in administrative work and is quickly becoming a valuable part of the Universal team.
Mitch is an Authorized Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter and airplane courses.
Mitch Hall
Assistant Director
Mitch is the newest member of our administrative team. He began with Universal in 2016 at our Provo training location. He has since become a dual-rated CFII, holding his Private, Commercial, Instrument, CFI, and CFII certificates in both helicopters and airplanes. He currently supports both our Helicopter Pilot Career Program and Airline Pilot Career Program as a flight instructor, traveling between locations often to assist where he’s needed most.
Additionally, he is beginning to aid in administrative work and is quickly becoming a valuable part of the Universal team.
Mitch is an Authorized Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter and airplane courses.
Mitch Hall
Assistant Director
Mitch is the newest member of our administrative team. He began with Universal in 2016 at our Provo training location. He has since become a dual-rated CFII, holding his Private, Commercial, Instrument, CFI, and CFII certificates in both helicopters and airplanes. He currently supports both our Helicopter Pilot Career Program and Airline Pilot Career Program as a flight instructor, traveling between locations often to assist where he’s needed most.
Additionally, he is beginning to aid in administrative work and is quickly becoming a valuable part of the Universal team.
Mitch is an Authorized Assistant Chief Instructor of our FAA-approved PART 141 helicopter and airplane courses.
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