Tom Baxter
President
Licenses and Ratings: ATP, CPL, MEL, Comm RTR, CFI, CFII, MEI, Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP)
Number of Years Flying: 50+ years
Short Bio: Tom is the President of Capital City Aviation. Tom has an extensive background in both Aviation and Business. His first aviation job was as a flight instructor at The Ohio State University in 1976. Throughout his career, he has worked as a charter, corporate and commuter airline pilot and spent five years at NetJets flying the Citation Sovereign. He has also flown EMS and aerial application helicopters and has had a lifelong interest in aerobatics. Among other achievements, Tom implemented and directed the original Grant Medical Center LifeFlight Helicopter program from 1982-1988, which eventually became MedFlight on the north side of KOSU. In addition to being the president of Capital City Aviation, Tom flight instructs and manages the Cirrus Training Center and Cirrus partnership at Capital City. Tom and his wife Cheryl live now in Summerville, South Carolina (he travels to Ohio for a week each month), and they have three daughters and four grandchildren. Tom enjoys time with his family, friends, and his dog Livvie. He is active in fitness, shooting sports, scuba diving, kayaking and camping.
Paul Palmisciano
Chief Flight Instructor
Licenses and Ratings: ATP, DPE, CFI, CFII, Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP), CPL
Number of Years Flying: 50+
Short Bio: Paul began flying at age 16, and has enjoyed the view of the earth from three thousand feet ever since. Paul has accrued a wealth of experience from over 50 years of flying. He has been a flight instructor since 1977, and has accumulated nearly 5,500 hours of flight time. In September of 2016, Paul was awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award from the Federal Aviation Administration for 50 years of safe and proficient flying. Paul’s reason for flying can be summed up in the following quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupery: “The aeroplane (sic) has unveiled for us the true face of the earth.” His goal in flying is to help pilots become better and safer – all the time.
Steven Kinsey
Vice President / Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP), CPL, MEL
Number of years flying: 13+
Short Bio: Steven has always been fascinated with aviation. In 2007 he attended an air show at KLCK and started his training that same day. He earned his private pilot certificate in airplanes from Fairfield County Airport in 2008, his instrument rating from Capital City Aviation, and his Commercial, CFI, CFII, and Multi-engine certification from The Ohio State University. In 2012 he transitioned to helicopters and earned his commercial pilot certification. He has been flying helicopters professionally since 2013 and is always working on expanding himself not only as a pilot but also as a person. He has a true passion for aviation and feels that some of the greatest rewards in aviation are sharing the joy, beauty, and endless possibilities of flying. When not flying Steven enjoys family, traveling, and playing with cars.
Ally Ginley
Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, TCI, MEL
Number of Years Flying: 8+
Short Bio: I am a CFI/CFII/TCI, with two type ratings: SF50 PIC and CE525 SIC. I started flying at the age of seventeen while I was finishing high school. I fell in love at first flight and have been soaring ever since. While earning my ratings, I graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in Aviation Management. Although I am an aviation enthusiast, I do have a life outside of aviation, just not too far outside. I married the love of my life back who is also a pilot (BIG shock, right?). When we aren’t flying for work, we are probably flying our Cessna 170 with our Bernese Mountain Dog and Golden Retriever in the back seat. If you are reading this and become my student in the future, I am excited for all the adventures ahead!
Bryan Beck
Licenses and Ratings: CFI
Number of Years Flying: 5+
Short Bio: Bryan is originally from Arizona and recently moved to Columbus with his wife and 2 kids. He comes from a family of aviation enthusiasts and completed his Commercial and Flight Instructor Ratings with Liberty University.
Brian Neill
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, TCI (SR, C172, C182)
Number of Years Flying: 26+ years
Short Bio: Brian Neill holds Commercial Pilot – Airplane Multi Engine, Single Engine land, and Helicopter pilot certificates. He also holds a Flight Instructor Certificate – Airplane Single Engine, Multi Engine, Helicopter, and Instrument Airplane ratings. He has a BA in Aviation Human Factors with a minor in Russian from The Ohio State University that he earned in 2001. Brian started flying in 1997 through The Ohio State University where he obtained his private pilot rating. He later finished up his instrument and commercial rating in Enterprise, AL and obtained his multi-engine ratings and instructor ratings in Florida. In 2003 he attended military flight school at Ft Rucker, AL where he obtained his helicopter ratings and started his military flying career. Since then he has flown several aircraft for the military which include the Bell 206 JetRanger, the OH-58A/C Observation and Reconnaissance Helicopter, and the UH-1 “Huey” Utility Helicopter. In 2004 he attended the UH-60 Blackhawk qualification course and he currently flies them for the Tennessee Army National Guard as a Medevac Pilot and Maintenance Test Pilot Examiner. In his spare time he enjoys hanging out with his family and watching his boys at their various sporting, musical, and scouting events.
John Kalinka
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, TCI, CPL
Number of years flying: 8+
Short Bio: John’s life of aviation began at age 6 John was permitted access to the flight deck of a United Airlines Boeing 727. John obtained his Bachelor of Science in Aviation management at The Ohio State University, and was later commissioned as an Officer in the US Army. John began flight training shortly after. He obtained his Flight Instructor Certification while maintaining a career with the US Government. John enjoys giving back to the General Aviation Community by teaching the rewards of safe flying. His experiences can be summed up by a quote from Col. John Glenn: “Hovering there I’ve chased the shouting wind along and flung my eager craft through footless halls of air…”
Brian Flaherty
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CMEL, CSEL, IR, TW, HP/CPLX endorsed
Number of Years Flying: 10+
Short Bio: Brian grew up flying in various different aircraft types in Cincinnati Ohio. He has accumulated hundreds hours in over 25 aircraft to date. Brian has a special passion for vintage aviation, and has gained many hours flying in his 1970 Mooney M-10 Cadet. He came to Columbus in 2013 to study Aviation at The Ohio State University. Brian was the Office Manager at Capital City Aviation from 2015 until 2018 when he started working operations for NetJets. He has since come back to Capital City Aviation as a full time Flight Instructor in order to gain experience for the airlines.
Dan Kesner
Licenses and Ratings: CFI
Number of Years Flying: 9+
Short Bio: Dan Kesner is a graduate of The Ohio State University where he earned a bachelors degree in International Studies in 2021. He completed all of his flight training through part 61 programs, first getting his private pilot certificate in 2015. Dan grew up around aviation– drawing his inspiration from his Dad and Uncle who are both professional and GA pilots. Dan is one of seven pilots in his family, including his two brothers and cousin, all of which have cultivated a healthy level of competition and support.
Dan’s future flying aspirations are to fly for the “Mainlines”, while continuing to maintain his instructor certificates. Some of the best advice Dan has received when it comes to aviation, is that as you progress in your aviation career, it is important to remember your “roots” and to reach back and pull the next generation up.
When it comes to flight training, Dan cannot emphasize enough the value of visualization–sitting down, closing your eyes, a running through checklists and manuevers.
Dan’s advice for the student pilot is to show up to the airport everyday–whether you are studying or socializing–being emersed in the aviation environment cultivates a healthy level of competition and professionalism that will continue to develop you into a safe and competent pilot.
Jessie Postle
Licenses and Ratings: CFI (C172)
Number of Years Flying: 3
Short Bio: Jessie began her aviation journey at the age of 16 through the Young Eagles free flights for kids. Since the first take off she knew she wanted to become a pilot. After graduating high school, she started flying as much as she possibly could. In February of 2021 she flew a Cessna 172 from Ohio to California and back, flying along the golden coast for a total of 65.5 flight hours! She has also flown from Ohio to Florida and back, and into Washington D.C. Jessie is looking forward to working with the Federal Aviation Administration as an Aviation Safety Inspector one day, but until then will happily be available for all of your flight instruction needs!
Ben Dyer
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, MEI
Number of Years Flying: 5
Short Bio: I have been flying for 5 years and started flight training when I was 16 years old in Colorado. I have lived all around the country as my Dad was in the U.S. Air Force. After completing my PPL in Colorado, I moved to Virginia where I continued my flight training. I completed CFI training in 2021 and have since had the opportunity to share my passion for aviation with others. In May 2023, I graduated from Liberty University with a BA in Aviation and now call Ohio home. The most exciting aviation experience I’ve had was my multiengine training. Learning to fly a multiengine aircraft challenged me and pushed me to become a better aviator all around. Every flight I look to learn something new and always try to walk away from each flight a better aviator. I look forward to flying with each and every person and helping them achieve their dreams of becoming a pilot or advancing further within aviation.
Jimmy Gold
Licenses and Ratings: CFI
Number of Years Flying: 4+
Short Bio: I was born in Pittsburgh but raised outside of Philadelphia. Graduated from Ohio State in the Spring of 2023. Have been around aviation since I can remember, with my dad being a fighter pilot for 25 years and flying for American Airlines. Started flying when I was 19 and got my PPL at a small airport in Quakertown, PA. Have been flying with Cap City for 3 years now getting my instrument and commercial license here. When I am not flying I am playing hockey or on the golf course. I love so many things about flying and can’t wait to share them with my students.
Daniel Hoffman
Licenses and Ratings: CFI
Number of Years Flying:
Short Bio: Daniel’s love for aviation began in high school when he joined Civil Air Patrol where he took his first flight, and aspired to become a career pilot ever since. After receiving his flight ratings through Bowling Green State University, he turned his focus toward instructing and empowering new pilots to expand their skills and reach their goals. He is also currently a part time aircraft mechanic on the F16’s in Toledo with the Air Force. In his free time, he enjoys running, disc golf, and traveling with his wife. He loves teaching and plans on becoming an airline pilot.
Mateo Centenera
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII
Number of Years Flying: 5+
Short Bio: I am from the Land of Enchantment otherwise known as Albuquerque New Mexico. I started my flight training at 16 years old and was able to earn my Private Pilot’s license by my senior year of high school. I then continued my flight training at The Ohio State University. I am majoring in Air Transportation and completed my Instrument rating and Commercial license through Ohio State. I then went back to Albuquerque to obtain my flight instructor license. I have over 4 years of flight experience and have loved every minute of it. When I am not flying, I am either skiing the great Rocky Mountains or golfing in the hills of Ohio. Flying is one of my greatest passions and I love spreading my passion for aviation to others!
Kaitlyn Shroyer
Licenses and Ratings: CFI
Number of Years Flying: 4+ years
Short Bio: Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. Completed all my training up to CFI at KCHD. I’ve been flying for four years and loving every day of it. Decided to leave the Valley of the Sun and make the beautiful city of Columbus my new home. Vice President of Women in Aviation Valley of the Sun Chapter. So I love giving back to the community of aviation. If I’m not flying, I will most likely be hiking, snowboarding, or supporting TDBITL that my Fiancé is the conductor for!
Nick Kremer
Licenses and Ratings: CFI
Number of Years Flying: 2+ years
Short Bio: Nick has always had the “flying bug,” thanks to his love of airports and his visits to airshows in his hometown of Dayton when he was young. He was able to take advantage of his passion for aviation, beginning his flying career in 2021 at a small airport in Moraine, OH. Nick has been flying out of KOSU for over two years now, obtaining his Instrument Rating and Commercial license at Capital City. He will be graduating from Ohio State in Fall 2023 with a degree in Air Transportation. Although it is just the beginning, he is thankful for the opportunity to convey his passion of aviation through training either current, or the next generation of pilots. Outside of flying Nick regularly participates and enjoys a multitude of sports, along with spending time with his friends and family. He is committed to progressing himself and his students and is looking forward to flying with each and every one of you!
Ben Roudebush
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, AGI, IGI, LSRM, Tailwheel/Complex endorsements
Number of Years Flying: 2+ years
Short Bio: I started my flight training in 2021 with an introductory flight at Bolton Airfield and completed my Private Pilot training at Ohio State University Airport. Shortly after I attended Bowling Green State University for my instrument rating but completed my training at Delaware Airport. After realizing my interest in flight instruction, I completed my Commercial, CFI and CFII at Bellefontaine Airport. Throughout all my training at various airports I’ve flown many makes and models of aircraft including Piper Archer/Arrow, Cessna 172, Taylorcraft, Diamond DA40 and various Light Sport aircraft. Some of my most memorable flights were flying to Sun ‘N Fun in Lakeland Florida or cloud surfing on an IFR flight plan. I am Looking forward to teaching the avid aviation enthusiasts or career track pilot.
Jillian Bourdage
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CFII, IR, CPL
Number of Years Flying: 5+ years
Short Bio: I was 17 years old when I began flight training in South Florida—I fell in love with the uplifting community of fellow aviators. I earned my Private Pilot’s license during my senior year of high school. Then, I ventured up to Ohio for college. I am a student-athlete on The Ohio State Women’s Golf team, studying Aviation Management with a professional pilot specialization. I completed the remainder of my flight training at the university’s flight school, earning my Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot’s license, and Certified Flight Instructor licenses (CFI/CFII). I have over 5 years and 450 hours of experience. My goal is to share this passion with others and help them advance towards their aviation aspirations!
Andrew Langen
Licenses and Ratings: CFI, CSEL, IR, HP, CPLX
Number of Years Flying: 10 years
Short Bio: Andrew knew he was going to be a pilot since he was a kid. Obsessed with anything aviation, he grew up always striving to be in aviation in one way or another. He started flying out of Middletown, OH in highschool before going to tOSU for Air Transportation. He got his PPL, IR, CPL at Capital City Aviation before getting hired on as the Director of Flight Operations for two years helping run the day-to-day operations for the club. Always wanting a new challenge, he then went to NetJets as an aircraft and crew scheduler while also obtaining his CFI at CCA. Andrew is part-time while also still working at NetJets and is motivated to help you succeed at whatever goals you are striving towards!
Office Staff
Mike Fleming
Director of Maintenance
Licenses and Ratings: A&P, IA
Short Bio: Mike is a former Marine and has years of experience rebuilding airframes at several smaller flight schools in addition to working at Ohio State for 7 years. Mike is Cirrus school certified with both composite and parachute training. He is a licensed airframe and powerplant (A& P) mechanic as well as an inspection authorized (IA) mechanic. This means that Mike can do a wider variety of maintenance activities and alterations than any other type of maintenance personnel.
