Faculty & Staff Directory

Academic Advisors


Division Administration

 

Faculty

Piloting and Aviation Management

  • Andrew Matthaey
    AM

    Andrew Matthaey

    Associate Professor
    ATP/CFI/CFII/MEI
    Commercial Rotorcraft
    amatthaey@alaska.edu
    907-786-7207

    Professor Matthaey has been flying professionally for over twenty years and has more than 13,000 hours in a wide variety of aircraft - from ultralights, gliders, and helicopters to the Boeing 737 on which he serves as Captain at Alaska Airlines.

    Originally from New York City, he earned a B.S. in Aviation Flight Operations from Daniel Webster College in Nashua, NH.

    He served in the U.S. Navy and holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate, as well as Commercial Rotorcraft and Flight Instructor certificates with both Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings.

     


     

  • Bryan Watkin
    BW

    Bryan Watkin

    Assistant Professor
    Check Airmen
    CFI/CFII
    bbwatkin@alaska.edu
    907-786-7222

    Bryan is a dedicated Professor of Aviation Science at the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), where he also contributes as an instructor and check airman in flight operations. His diverse background spans seven states and four countries across three continents, which has shaped his global perspective and passion for aviation.

    Originally from New England, Bryan holds a degree in Aquaculture from the University of Rhode Island. After graduation, he joined the Peace Corps in 2011, serving as an extension agent with the Department of Fisheries in Zambia, where he focused on rural aquaculture. His career also includes roles with the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, where he worked in trout cultivation, and in South Africa, where he contributed to oyster farming.

    Bryan's aviation journey began in 2014 after returning to northern Maine. He completed an accelerated flight training program in Lawrenceville, Georgia, in 2020. Following several summers spent flying skydivers, Bryan moved to Alaska in December 2021, where he was captivated by the state's stunning landscapes and unique charm.

    In addition to his professional pursuits, Bryan enjoys various hobbies, including mushroom hunting, fishing, playing cribbage, watching hockey, and, of course, flying. A self-described dog enthusiast, he has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a keen sense of adventure.

     

  • Nate Martin

    Nate Martin

    Senior Flight Instructor
    Adjunct Professor
    CFI/CFII
    ncmartin2@alaska.edu
    (907) 786-7251

    Nate Martin has been a flight instructor and adjunct professor at UAA since 2023. Before working for UAA, Nate earned his master's degree in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and directed orchestra programs from the elementary to the collegiate level.

    Pre-pandemic, Nate spent some time working with Syrian refugee communities and taught religious and cultural integration programs in Europe. Due to the Pandemic lockdowns in Europe, Nate moved home to Alaska and continued to pursue a career change in aviation alongside teaching orchestra.

    As a member of the American Airlines Cadet Academy and a PSA cadet, Nate was able to obtain his advanced ratings and continues to bring his experiences into the classroom and cockpit.

    Outside of his flight time, Nate enjoys spending time with his family, learning new languages, trying new foods, traveling, and generally being outdoors. 

     

  • Tate Klug
    TK

    Tate Klug

    Assistant Professor
    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7251

    As a seasoned flight instructor in the aviation industry, Tate brings a passion for flying and teaching to the cockpit and the classroom. With certifications as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (CFII), Tate has a deep commitment to helping aspiring pilots soar to new heights.

    In addition to his role as an instructor, Tate is also an aviation professor, blending theoretical knowledge with real-world experience to shape the next generation of aviators. Whether it’s flying for practice, or taking the skies with a little more freedom, Tate ensures that each lesson is both informative and engaging.

    But beyond flying and teaching, Tate is known for his competitive edge in unexpected arenas. His crowning achievement? Winning the company game of spoons not once, but twice. This victory has cemented his place as not only a skilled instructor but also the reigning spoons champion in the aviation department.

    When not in the air or classroom, Tate is likely found discussing aviation theories, mastering new flying techniques, or preparing for the next game of spoons (because a champion must always defend their title).


Air Traffic Control

  • Martin Case
     

    Martin Case

    Associate Professor
    mcase7@alaska.edu
    907-786-7218

     

     

  • Michael Moravec
    Mike Moravec

    Michael Moravec

    Assistant Professor
    mjmoravec@alaska.edu
    (907) 786-7217

    M.S. Education Administration, University of Nebraska-Omaha

    B.S. Education, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

    Retired Air Traffic Control Specialist, Federal Aviation Administration

    Anchorage ARTCC, Kansas City ARTCC

    Subject Matter Expert, Lead Instructor for Scientific Applications International Corporation (SAIC)


Aviation Maintenance Technology

  • David Helmso
    David Helmso

    David Helmso

    Assistant Professor
    djhelmso@alaska.edu
    907-786-7223

    Bachelor of Science, Business Administration / Management

    Associate of Applied Science, Aviation Maintenance Technology

    FAA Private Pilot, Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic certificates

    Air Surveillance / Weapons Control Officer, E-3 Sentry [AWACS] Aircrew, USAF [Retired]

    Docent, Pilot, A&P Mechanic, and Project Volunteer, Alaska Aviation Museum

    Founding Member, A&P Mechanic, and Project Volunteer, Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum

    Member, A&P Mechanic, and Project Volunteer, Commemorative Air Force

    Member, Alaska Airmen Association

     

  • Lou Nagy
    Lou Nagy

    Lou Nagy

    Professor
    lnagy@alaska.edu
    907-786-7214

    Professor Nagy’s aviation experience covers a wide variety of aircraft flown in Alaska. His specialty areas are business class aircraft and avionics. Professor Nagy has taught a wide range of aviation courses and currently focuses on turbine powered aircraft and electronic/electrical systems.

    AAS Aviation Maintenance Technology, AAS
    Electronics Technology, BS Technology, MS Vocational Education

    FAA Mechanic with Airframe & Powerplant, Inspection Authorization, Private Pilot certificates

    FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner

    FCC Radio Telephone license with RADAR endorsement

  • Wade Weiss
    Wade Weiss

    Wade Weiss

    Assistant Professor
    wweiss6@alaska.edu
    907-786-7209

    Master of Aeronautical Science – Aviation Aerospace Safety Systems, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

    Bachelor of Science – Mechanical Design Technology, Oklahoma State University

    Airframe and Powerplant Certificate – Aviation Maintenance Technology, University of Alaska Anchorage

  • Carrollea Hubbard
    CL

    Carrollea Hubbard

    Assistant Professor
    cehubbard@alaska.edu
    907-786-7215

    Professor Hubbard has over 30 years of aviation maintenance experience and 20+ years in education, applying a lifelong learning philosophy to teaching.

    Her career spans flight line and heavy maintenance on aircraft ranging from general aviation to wide-body fleets, including the B777-300, MD-11, B727, and DC-10. She has developed training modules for field technicians, managed aircraft parts and tooling, and provided DOM, QA, and management support. Certified in Run/Taxi, RII, LLM, RVSM, HUD/EFVS, and ETOPS, and all GSE for freight transload operations. She has written for the Air Operations Division magazine, trained new employees, and managed scheduled maintenance for Part 135 operations.

    Outside of aviation, she and her husband enjoy adventuring in Alaska—camping, hiking, biking, and skiing.

    MS – Career and Technical Education, UAA
    BS – Science and Technology, UAA
    AAS – Aviation Maintenance Technology UAA
    Airframe and Powerplant Certificate – Aviation Maintenance Technology, UAA

 

Support Staff

Aviation Maintenance Technology

  • Michael Chamberlain
    Michael Chamberlain

    Michael Chamberlain

    Lead Lab Technician
    mrchamberlain@alaska.edu
    907-786-7242

    FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certificates, Inspection Authorization

    NDI qualifications: Magnetic Particle, Dye Penetrant & Eddy Current Inspection

    Adjunct Professor & tutor for maintenance students

    Student Pilot

    State of Alaska Registered Hunting Guide & 25 Ton Masters license for inland waters
     

  • Jonah Bloom
     

    Jonah Bloom

    Aviation Technology Center Building and Safety Manager
    jmbloom@alaska.edu
    907-786-7213


     


Key Personnel in Flight Operations

  • Dr. Ishmael Cremer
    Ishmael Cremer

    Dr. Ishmael Cremer

    Chief Flight Instructor
    CFI/CFII/MEI
    iacremer@alaska.edu
    907-786-7200

     Dr. Ishmael Cremer comes with a diverse background in aviation, science, and aeronautical education.  Ishmael earned a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Engineering at KAUST, and a PhD in Aviation Sciences at FIT.

    Ishmael moved into a faculty position within the College of Aeronautics teaching various courses at the undergraduate, graduate, and online level. During his time at Florida Tech he developed the Aviation Environmental Program and was highly involved with the online and international aviation degrees. His research interests have been in Human Factors, Team-Training in Unmanned Aerial Operations, and Aviation Sustainability.

    Ishmael moved with his family to Anchorage in 2019. He and his wife enjoy exploring Alaska through flying, hiking, camping, scuba diving, and nature photography.

  • Cassie Martin
    cassiemartin

    Cassie Martin

    Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
    Director of Flight Operations
    Professor
    CFI/CFII/MEI
    csmartin8@alaska.edu
    (907) 786-7231

    Cassie Martin is the Director of Flight Operations and Assistant Chief Pilot, as well as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI) and aviation professor. She has been with UAA for three years, teaching flight courses and mentoring future pilots.

    Before becoming a pilot, Cassie was a teacher and coach in Alaska and Texas, specializing in differentiated instruction and project-based learning. As Director of Flight Operations, her goal is to help people achieve their dreams and guide them toward success in their aviation careers. She manages flight operations, oversees flight courses, and serves as a check airman for stage checks.

    Originally from Texas, Cassie holds a Bachelor of Science from Campbell University in North Carolina. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family, hiking, camping, reading, flying, and four-wheeling—especially in the summer! She’s also a proud mom to Barrett (10) and Savannah (8).

     

  • Paul Deits
    Paul Deits

    Paul Deits

    Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
    Professor
    CFI/CFII/MEI
    pdeits@alaska.edu
    907-786-7236

    Airline Transport Pilot

    Certified Flight Instructor

    Ground Instructor

    Flight Engineer

  • Derk MacPherson
     Derk MacPherson

    Derk MacPherson

    Flight Operations Scheduling Officer 
    damacpherson@alaska.edu
    907-786-7251

    Derk is a long time aviation enthusiast who started his flight training in 1987 in San Diego, CA before enlisting in the US Air Force. After retiring from the USAF he enrolled in the UAA Piloting Program and earned his Private Pilot certificate in 2013. 

    He has worked as the Flight Operations Scheduling Officer for the UAA Professional Piloting program since 2019, while also attending UAA to finish his degree in Aviation Technology (Piloting Emphasis).

    Derk also volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol as the Alaska Wing Director of Operations, helping with Search and Rescue missions, Aerospace Education, and the Cadet Program.

  • Scott Sebastian
     Photo of Scott Sebastian, Lead Aircraft Mechanic

    Scott Sebastian

    Director of Maintenance Flight Ops
    907-786-0414

    Scott is an FAA Airframe and Powerplant rated mechanic and holds an FAA Inspection Authorization. He has worked with numerous types of general aviation aircraft. Scott has worked in Part 135 operations up to and including the job of Director of Maintenance. 

  • Patrick Neal
    pat

    Patrick Neal

    Certified A&P Mechanic
    CFI
    (907) 786-7240

    My name is Patrick Neal, I am a graduate from LeTourneau University in East Texas with a bachelors degree in Professional Flight with a Maintenance concentration. I am a certified flight instructor and a working A&P mechanic for UAA. Please don’t break my airplanes!

     

     

  • Christian Reid
     

    Christian Reid

    Certified A&P Mechanic
    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    Just your average Joe. I was inspired to come to Alaska and learn how to fly after watching “The Grey.” Incidentally, I am also an aircraft mechanic. For recreation, I enjoy riding my bicycle and tasting hot sauce. My long term goals are immortality and to rule over my own pocket dimension.

     


Flight Instructor List
Please contact Flight Ops (907) 786-7240 to reach our flight instructors.

  • Ethan Helm
    EH

    Ethan Helm

    Senior Flight Instructor
    Check Airmen
    CFI/CFII/MEI
    (907) 786-7240

    Ethan is a first-generation pilot and a graduate of the Professional Piloting Program at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Growing up in Alaska with an Air Force parent, aviation has always been a presence in his life, sparking his passion for flying.

    Ethan finds the challenges and fun associated with flying fulfilling, making it both a rewarding and enjoyable career.

    When he's not instructing at UAA, Ethan enjoys spending time outdoors with his friends and family.

  • John Sievert
    JS

    John Sievert

    Check Airmen
    CFI/CFII/MEI
    (907) 786-7240

    I like to fly planes. UAA graduate, veteran (ask me about using GI Bill), CFI/CFII/MEI, stage check instructor, tailwheel and float pilot.

     

  • Matt Moglianesi
    mattm

    Matt Moglianesi

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    Matt served in the Army and was stationed in Alaska before attending the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), where he earned a degree in Aviation Technology with a piloting emphasis.

    Since 2023, he have worked as a flight instructor at UAA, helping students develop their skills in aviation.

    Outside of work, he enjoy staying active and spending time outdoors.

     

  • John Bailey
     

    John Bailey

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

     

     

  • Jon Gray
    jongray

    Jon Gray

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    Born in the scorching inferno of a Phoenix summer, Jon quickly developed an appreciation for air conditioning and shade. This led to a natural career path in aerospace engineering at Arizona State University, because if you're going to escape the heat, why not do it at 30,000 feet?

    After joining the Navy as a Naval Flight Officer, they spent years riding shotgun (well, backseat) in the T-45C Goshawk and EA-18G Growler, helping pilots look cool while doing all the brain work. When not navigating the skies, Jon's been known to blast out some tunes on the trumpet, much to the delight (or dismay) of those within earshot.

    In June 2023, Jon decided that civilization had too many people and not enough bears, so Jon packed up and moved to Alaska, where the wilderness is vast, the moose are large, and the WiFi is questionable.

     

  • Andrew Lastimoso
    andrewlast

    Andrew Lastimoso

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    Andrew was born in Houston, Texas, where he spent his early years surrounded by vast cornfields before relocating to Alaska. He attended A.J. Dimond High School and later earned a degree in Medical Lab Science from the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA).
     
    After working as a medical technologist for three years, Andrew's passion for aviation was ignited during a discovery flight, setting him on a new path. He moved to Washington to pursue flight training in the Seattle area, where he spent a year teaching aspiring pilots. Now back in Anchorage, Andrew is a flight instructor at the University of Alaska Anchorage, where he continues to share his love of aviation.

     

  • Cara Cramer
    caracramer

    Cara Cramer

    CFI
    (907) 786-7240

    Cara graduated from the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology, specializing in professional piloting and earning a minor in Air Traffic Control.
     
    Shortly after graduation, she began working as both a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and an ATC Junior Instructor at UAA. Cara’s passion for aviation stems from the unique perspective it offers, allowing her to experience the world from an entirely new vantage point.
     
    When she's not flying, she enjoys outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and canoeing, embracing the natural beauty that surrounds her.
  • Stephen Reynolds
    SR

    Stephen Reynolds

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    Stephen served in the Navy prior to attending the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA). After graduating in 2024, he started working as a CFI/CFII at UAA. When he is not flying, he enjoys dog walking, family time and attempting to fish.

 

Simulations Unit (ATC & Flight)

  • Bryan Coffey
    Bryan Coffey

    Bryan Coffey

    ATC Instructional Support
    bkcoffey@alaska.edu
    907-786-7232

    Bryan has always had a passion for aviation and enjoys his work in the Aviation Technology Division.  After spending 10 years in Alaska he calls it his other home, his first home being New Zealand where he was raised.  When not working for the University he enjoys travelling the world.
     

  • Michael Workman
    Michael Workman

    Michael Workman

    Simulation/IT Engineer
    mcworkman@alaska.edu
    907-786-7228

    Mike began his career as an aviation maintenance technician for 13 years prior to coming to UAA.  He was hired by UAA in 2003 to oversee and maintain the Aviation Technology Division's simulation and IT operations.  He was part of the ADS-B Capstone team for 5 years, heading up handheld cockpit device and iridium research.  In that role, he also served as the designated ADS-B maintenance trainer for FAA and industry participants involved in the capstone program.  Mike also supports the Flight Operations Maintenance team in a variety of capacities.   

    Colorado Aero Tech, UAA and specialized training with Honeywell, Frasca, UFA, Garmin, Rockwell Collins, General Dynamics, Chelton, Bendix King, Microsoft, Cisco, and Hewlett Packard.

    FAA Airframe & Powerplant, Private Pilot and FCC certificates.

     

 

Map

Contact

UAA Aviation Technology Division
2811 Merrill Field Drive
Anchorage, AK  99501
United States
Phone: (907) 786-7200
 

Hours

8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday