Instructors

As Chief Flight Instructor at Future Flyers of Iowa, Santiago Zapata leads our team of instructors with a strong commitment to professionalism, safety, and delivering an exceptional training experience for every student.

Originally from Colombia, Santiago moved to the United States in 2019 and completed his flight training in Florida. He has also lived in Germany, bringing a diverse international perspective to aviation and instruction. Bilingual and culturally connected, Santiago enjoys building relationships with students from all backgrounds.

Outside of aviation, he’s passionate about music and fitness—you’ll often find him playing guitar or getting in a solid workout when he’s not at the airport. Santiago holds both CFI and CFI-I certificates and has earned the prestigious FAA Gold Seal Certification, a distinction awarded to instructors who exceed standard flight instructor performance 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. 

 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. 

 Jacob grew up in the Des Moines area, where an unexpected injury helped spark his journey into aviation and led him to discover his passion for flying. He went on to earn his CFI and CFII certificates and now enjoys helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become safe, capable pilots. Jacob values building relationships with his students, encouraging them through challenges, and helping them achieve their aviation goals. His faith is an important part of his life and shapes his desire to serve others, encourage those around him, and invest in meaningful relationships. Outside of aviation, Jacob enjoys spending time with his wife and two kids, making memories together as a family. He also enjoys playing golf, hunting, and watching football.