Faculty & Staff Directory

Academic Advisors

Division Leadership & Support Staff

  • Jonah Bloom - Aviation Technology Center Building & Safety Manager

    Jonah Bloom

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

  • Storey Grubb - Aviation Tour Guide
    SG

    Storey Grubb

    Administrative Assistant
    ROTC Support Personnel
    Aviation Tour Guide
    msgrubb@alaska.edu
    (907) 786-7204

    Interested in touring the facility and visiting the Aviation Department? Feel free to contact me by email or phone to book a tour or if you have any questions.

    Note: Aviation and main campus tours are separate. To tour the main campus, please contact the Admissions Office.

  • Michael Chamberlain - Lead Lab Technician
    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
     

  • Dean Carson - Tool Room Technician

    Dean Carson

    Tool Room Technician
    dcarson3@alaska.edu
    907-786-7200

  •   Mike Workman - Simulation/IT Engineer
    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.

     

Faculty

Piloting and Aviation Management

  • Andrew Matthaey - Associate Professor
    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 - Assistant Professor & Check Airmen
    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 - Senior Flight Instructor & Adjunct Professor

    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 - Assistant Professor
    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

Aviation Maintenance Technology

  • Lou Nagy - Professor
    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

  • David Helmso - Assistant Professor
    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

  • Wade Weiss - Assistant Professor
    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

  •  Ben McDaniel - Assistant Professor
    BMC

    Ben McDaniel

    Assistant Professor
    bjmcdaniel@alaska.edu
    Office: 129K

    I'm an A&P mechanic, commercial SEL and MEL pilot, and reciprocating engine flight engineer. I've worked for Kenmore Air Harbor, Everts Air Cargo, and Grant Aviation. I earned a bachelor's degree in history and communication at UAF, where I also attended A&P school. I'm excited for the opportunity to teach and contribute to the UAA AMT program. 

Key Personnel in Flight Operations

  • Cassie Martin - Chief Pilot & Director of Flight Operations
    CM

    Cassie Martin

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

     Cassie Martin is the Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations, 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).

  • Dr. Ishmael Cremer - Supporting Chief Pilot
    ISH

    Dr. Ishmael Cremer

    Supporting Chief Pilot
    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.

     

  • Paul Deits - Assistant Chief Pilot
    Paul Deits

    Paul Deits

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

    Airline Transport Pilot

    Certified Flight Instructor

    Ground Instructor

    Flight Engineer

  • Derk MacPherson - Flight Operations Scheduling Officer 
     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 - Director of Maintenance
     Photo of Scott Sebastian, Lead Aircraft Mechanic

    Scott Sebastian

    Director of Maintenance
    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. 

  • Maggie Cvancara
    mc

    Maggie Cvancara

    Lead Mechanic
    Certified A&P Mechanic

    Maggie Cvancara is a graduate of the University of Alaska Anchorage and holds her Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification.

    Outside of work, she spends her time hiking, camping, playing pond hockey, backcountry skiing and baking for friends and family.

  • Christian Reid
    CR

    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.

     

  • Elijah Corwin
    Elijah

    Elijah Corwin

    Aircraft Maintenance Technician I

    Elijah is a Certificated Powerplant Mechanic and student in the UAA Aviation Maintenance Technology Program, with one semester left to get his Airframe Certificate. He currently holds an Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology from UAA, a Student Pilot Certificate, and an FAA Powerplant Certificate.

    In his free time, he enjoys hanging with his friends, working on his truck, biking, and playing his guitar and drums. He is a born-and-raised Alaskan and is excited to be working in the aviation industry.

Flight Instructor List

Please contact Flight Operations to get in touch with flight instructors or to make payments.
Direct Line: (907) 786-7240

  • 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
    MM

    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
    JB

    John Bailey

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    I am the mean one.
    (Though truthfully, he’s not — he’s actually one of the nicest person you’ll ever meet.)

    Member of Horizon Pilot Development Program

     

  • 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.

  • Christopher Boehnlein
    CB

    Christopher Boehnlein

    CFI/CFII
    (907) 786-7240

    I was born and raised in Wisconsin and relocated to Alaska in 2018 due to my previous career. I began flight training at the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) in 2022 and graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology.

    In the short term, my goal is to be a safe, skilled, and supportive Certified Flight Instructor for UAA students. Long term: I am in Horizon’s Pilot Development Program, so after my time as a CFI at UAA I will be flying the E175 for them.

  • Jose Medina
    J

    Jose Medina

    CFI
    (907) 786-7240

    Jose is a CFI and graduate of the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Professional Piloting program. A U.S. Army veteran who moved to Alaska to pursue aviation, he originally wanted to be an astronaut but settled for piloting. Outside of flying, he enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors with his beautiful wife.

  • Tim Lester
    tl

    Tim Lester

    Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice
    CFI

    I'm currently a student and an Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice with UAA’s Aviation Technology Division. I'm also a certified flight instructor and commercial pilot.

    I started flight training back in high school and moved to Alaska in 2022 to continue my education at UAA. Along the way, I decided to pursue aircraft maintenance as well to build a deeper understanding of aviation.

    Flying is my passion, but I also enjoy spending time outdoors, riding motorcycles, and going on road trips.

  • Bradley Carmen
    BC

    Bradley Carmen

    CFI/CFII
    Commercial Single and Multi Engine Land
    Tailwheel
    High Performance
    Complex

    Bradley grew up in Alaska and Georgia, so he’s got a mix of both Northern and Southern culture in him. He’s into skiing, archery, motorcycles, and fishing. He loves flying year round and plans to buy a plane of his own one day.

    Bradleys aviation goals are Delta Airlines Professionally Wants a 185 or Cub recreationally.

  • Danilo Guzman
    D

    Danilo Guzman

    CFI

    I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. I like books, candles, coffee, mountains, movie nights, pizza, and of course, anything aviation. My interest in flying was sparked during the first semester of my sophomore year in college when a friend told me, "You may as well give it a shot." After my discovery flight a few months later, I was certain that I wanted to pursue flying as a career. Four years later, and I'm a CFI in hopes of using what I have learned to further the aviation pursuits of other aspiring pilots.

    My aviation goal is to be a great flight instructor.

  • Bailey Williams
    B

    Bailey Williams

    CFI/CFII

     

  • Mark Fitch
    MF

    Mark Fitch

    CFI/CFII

    Professor of mathematics, Commercial ASEL, CFII, AGI, owner operator of a Maule.

    My Aviation goals include to apply decades of teaching experience to flight training.

  • Jeremy Choleva
    J

    Jeremy Choleva

    CFI

    I started flying in 2006 and after a brief hiatus completed my private pilot training in 2022. I first moved to Alaska for Army from 2015 to 2020, followed by a shorter period at another (not Airborne) duty station, and moved back to Alaska after I was done with Army. I have since been completing the rest of my ratings here at UAA.

    My Aviation goals include I want to fly for a State or Federal wildlife agency, conducting aerial surveys and monitoring of Alaskan wildlife such as moose, sheep, bear, fish; and other shenanigans.

 

 





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