John attended the USAF Academy and graduated with a BS in Chemistry in 1978. After pilot training his first operational assignment was flying F-4’s in the 18th Tactical Fighter squadron at Elmendorf AFB. Two short years later he was assigned to Holloman AFB as an instructor pilot in the AT-38. John was an instructor for the remainder of his USAF career.Â
In 1985 John resigned from the USAF and joined the Kansas ANG in Wichita Kansas once again flying the F-4. He was chosen as one of the first Instructors to transition to the F-16 in 1987 and flew the F-16 until 1994.Â
John served as a flight instructor as well as a platform academic instructor and Flight Examiner. In 1993 and 1994, John enrolled in ERAU and completed his Masters in Aeronautical Sciences specializing in Management and Education. Also in 1994, he transitioned to the B-1. After serving as the Chief of Standardization and Evaluation, John became the first ever Squadron Commander of an Operational ANG Heavy Bomber Squadron in 1996.Â
John retired in 1998 and fulfilled a long time dream by relocating to Alaska.
John began working at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in 1998. He has served as the Airport Security Manager (1998-2001), the Operations Manager (2001-2004), the Deputy Director (2004-2008) and is currently the Airport Manager.
John is an Accredited Airport Executive, the vice Chair of the Armed Services YMCA Board, an Ex Officio Advisor to the ACVB Board and serves on the UAA Industry Advisory Council.
