James Alexander

Alexander, of Hollywood, Maryland, found his passion for aviation at a local air show at age 11 and has been a private pilot since his 17th birthday. He has a degree in aeronautical and astronautical engineering. His long aviation career includes U.S. Air Force instructor/evaluator/navigator (retired), former NASA flight engineer, and chief of safety at the University of Maryland UAS Research and Operations Center. He recently completed his second year of teaching private pilot ground school for minority youth aspiring to be pilots. He also teaches aviation science courses as adjunct faculty at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and serves as a crew resource management instructor. He has created a free website with references and resources for general aviation pilots: vfraviation.wordpress.com.

His volunteer activities include Ford Trimotor operations at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, FAASTeam Representative, WINGSPro, Civil Air Patrol, and airport advisory board member for St. Mary’s County Regional Airport (2W6). Alexander has been a lifelong aviation enthusiast and enjoys being an instructor to help others on their aviation journeys. His current flying goals are to continue learning new things and enjoy new challenges and experiences. He recently completed his seaplane rating and is on a quest to fly as many different aircraft types as possible.