Instructors

 Blake Bakkum is an Aerospace Engineer- turned Pilot from Batavia, Illinois. He attended Iowa State University where he first earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering before completing the rigors of ATP Flight School in West Chicago. He is passionate about giving students a well- rounded flight school expereience focusing on aeronautics, physics, and the essentials of flight. Blake holds a CFI, CFI-I, and MEI. A fun fact about Blake, he is an amazing bassist in his band, Mango Soul and you can frequently hear him play at various venues across the Des Moines metro! 

 Santiago Zapata loves music, fitness, and exploring the world. He grew up in Colombia and moved to the United States in 2019, where he completed flight training in Florida. Along the way, he’s also called Germany home, giving him a rich mix of international experiences. Santiago is bilingual and enjoys connecting with people from different cultures. When he’s not flying, you’ll often find him playing his guitar or getting in a good workout. Santiago is a CFI and CFI-I. 

Fun Fact: Santiago has earned the remarkable designation of being awarded the FAA's Gold Seal Certification. This is awarded to Certified Flight Instructors who exceed the standard flight instructor requirements. 

 Blake Munson grew up in Madrid, Iowa and has been in aviation since he was 16 years old, at which time he began flying planes at Storm Flying Service. In 2003, he began attending the University of North Dakota, where he would later obtain his single and multiengine commercial pilots licenses. Since 2007, Blake has lived locally in Winterset, IA and is not only Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), but is an Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI) as well. 

Grace Silva grew up in Creston, Iowa and started her aviation career when she was 16 years old at Farnham Aviation and worked at the flight school while she obtained her certificates in the summers she was home. Currently Grace attends Embry Riddle Aeronautical University  and is scheduled to complete her Bachelor's degree in Aeronautics in Fall 2025. Grace holds a CFI and CFI-I certificate and in her spare time she likes to spend time with her family outside on their farm or playing rugby with friends. 

 Tamra Yeager has lived in Winterset for the past 14.5 years. She has been flying since 1997 and has instructed students throughout the Midwest, East Coast, Montana, and Colorado. She received much of her flight training in  Rangely, Colorado where she gained a great deal of expereince flying in various climates. Tamra holds a CFI and CFI-I. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her husband and children hanging out outdoors or flying the skies of Iowa in her own 182!

 Dace Richardson grew up in Wheaton, Illinois, and went on to attend The University of Iowa from 2005 to 2009, where he was recognized as a First-Team All-Big Ten Offensive Lineman. After his collegiate football career, Dace pursued another lifelong dream—aviation. He began his aviation journey in 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina, and has been dedicated to flying ever since.

With a deep passion for aviation, Dace now shares his knowledge and enthusiasm with others as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Instrument Instructor (CFI-I). He finds fulfillment in guiding aspiring pilots and helping them achieve their own aviation goals.

Outside of the cockpit, Dace enjoys spending quality time with his family and attending music festivals, where he can connect with people and enjoy the energy of live performances. His dedication, leadership, and love for flying continue to inspire those around him both in aviation and beyond.