About Us

With over thirty years as a pilot, Eric is the founder of Tradewind Aviation. He began his aviation career as a charter sales representative for Westchester Air, eventually serving as a pilot, Director of Marketing, and General Manager. Prior to aviation, Eric developed residential and commercial real estate in southern New York and founded a successful e-commerce business. Eric holds a B.S. in entrepreneurial management and economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. Eric is also founder and President of the D-Day Squadron, a philanthropic organization dedicated to historic aircraft from World War II.

David is a founding member of Tradewind and is responsible for sales, marketing, and business development. Prior to Tradewind, David served as brand and product director with several leading online marketing services firms. David is an instrument-rated pilot and holds a B.S. in Finance and Management Information Systems from the University of Vermont.

With over 25 years as a certificated pilot Adam brings considerable experience to the Tradewind Aviation team. Adam graduated magna cum laude from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2003 with a Bachelors degree in Aeronautical Science. He currently holds an Air Transport Pilot certificate as well as an Airframe and Powerplant mechanic’s certificate. Adam’s experience prior to coming to Tradewind includes flight instructing in both land and sea planes.

Elise joined Tradewind as Chief Financial Officer in 2024 with over 20 years of senior leadership experience across multiple industries including technology, consumer goods, professional services, and industrial manufacturing. As CFO, Elise provides counsel on all financial, business, and operational aspects of Tradewind's growing business with a focus on increasing profitability and growth. Elise graduated summa cum laude from the University of Connecticut with a B.S., earned her M.B.A. from Vanderbilt University, and is a CPA.

A lifelong aviator, Adam became a pilot at the age of 16 and transformed his passion for aviation into a career. After earning a B.S. in Aeronautical Science with a minor in Air Traffic Control from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Adam has held various roles within the industry including Line Pilot, Instructor, Director of Operations, and Senior Vice President of Flight Operations. Adam has an ATP with a Type Rating in the EMB135/145 Jet.

Responsible for the maintenance of the Tradewind fleet and all technical flight operations, Kyle has been with Tradewind since 2004. Starting as an apprentice, he then became Director of Maintenance in 2009, before being promoted to Vice President of Maintenance in 2024. Kyle holds an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic's Certificate and an Inspection Authorization Certificate, as well as a degree from the Stratford School for Aviation in Maintenance Technicians.

Crist is responsible for all aspects of Tradewind's people including Human Resources, talent management, team member training & development, pilot training experience, compensation & benefits strategy. Prior to Tradewind, Crist held HR Leadership positions across the Retail and Financial Services sectors specializing in luxury retail. Crist holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Brain Behavior, Cognition and Neuroscience from the University of Michigan.

As Vice President of Revenue, Jen is responsible for the Sales and Marketing teams at Tradewind. Jen has a B.A. in Communications and an M.B.A. in Transportation Economics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. After 10+ years in the aviation industry, Jen has extensive knowledge on aircraft sourcing, vendor partnerships, global account management, client retention, and client experience.

With over thirty years’ experience as a pilot, Paul’s aviation career began with a gliding license and an introductory flight through the British Air Training Corp in the 1970s. He graduated from Strode’s College in England and holds a U.S. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. Paul joined Tradewind in 2011 as a part-time pilot, before his promotion to Chief Pilot in 2024.

With over 20 years in the aviation industry, Ed started with Tradewind in 2013 as an A&P Mechanic. He quickly rose to the HPN Base Supervisor, then Lead Supervisor of Maintenance, Assistant Director of Maintenance, and now Director of Maintenance. He graduated in 2013 with an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Certificate and a degree in Maintenance Technicians from The School of Stratford Aviation. His background includes valuable experience as an Aircraft Crew Chief in the United States Air Force, where he worked on F-15s and F-22s, and subsequent work in a turbine repair shop, rebuilding engines for the U.S. Navy.

Michael joined Tradewind as Director of Safety in 2024. He holds both a BS in Aviation Technology and MS in Student Personnel Administration from the University of Central Missouri. Michael has over 20 years of aviation experience, including his time as an Army pilot and previous Director of Safety roles for helicopter air medical transport companies and fixed-wing part 121 and 135 operations. Michael's qualifications are further highlighted by his Helicopter Commercial and Instrument ratings, as well as various certifications in aviation safety management, OSHA, and aviation accident investigation.

Quinn joined Tradewind in 2023 as Director of Customer Service and is responsible for the owner services, scheduled services, and client services teams. Quinn’s expertise in data-driven decision-making paired with her extensive background in strategic implementation targets improves the overall Tradewind client experience.

Now Director of Scheduling and Dispatch, Blake started with Tradewind as a Charter Sales Representative in 2012. He has also worked as a Dispatch Supervisor and Charter Department Advisor for Tradewind. Blake holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation/Air Traffic Management and an Associate degree in General Aviation Operations from Daniel Webster College. Blake has over a decade of experience in the aviation industry.

Grace started with Tradewind in 2014 as a Marketing Administrator and advanced to Director of Marketing, where she led the department for 10 years with over a decade of industry experience. Her in-depth knowledge of the company and longstanding commitment have since led to her transition to Director of Sales Operations, where she now oversees sales and service processes, opportunities, performance, and technology. Grace graduated from Mount Ida College in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel & Tourism Management.

Lindsay joined Tradewind in 2025 as Director of Marketing, bringing over 15 years of experience in the marketing industry, where she managed high-profile accounts for premium spirit brands. She holds a B.A. in Communications – Advertising from Marist College and is an expert in digital marketing, experiential activations, and client relationship management. Her strategic leadership and commitment to flawless execution bring exceptional value to the Tradewind team.

Matthew joined Tradewind in 2024 as the Director of Technology Solutions. He holds a bachelor's degree in Information Technology with a specialization in Network Administration from the University of Hartford. He began his career at a small MSP, advancing from a helpdesk technician to Technical Operations Manager. He then spent a decade in the BioTech field, rising from Network Engineer to Senior Director, where he grew his team and built IT and security programs for a large international organization.

With over a decade of financial experience, Ashley joined Tradewind in 2013 as a Staff Accountant, before quickly advancing to Accounting Manager and now Financial Controller. Ashley’s responsibilities include overseeing Tradewind's Accounting and Finance teams. Ashley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business Management from SUNY Cobleskill.

With over 20 years of HR experience, Maria is the Senior Manager of HR & Talent Operations for Tradewind Aviation. Before starting with Tradewind in 2014, Maria attended Albertus Magnus College for Business Administration, and worked within the Non-Profit, Finance, and Insurance industries.