Craig S.
Experienced Flight Operations Manager with a passion for Aviation Safety! | MBA
- Role
- Flight Services Director at Sanborn
- Location
- Colorado Springs, CO, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Craig S.
Aviation operations and safety leader with 25+ years of experience across Part 91 flight operations, Safety Management Systems (SMS), and regulatory compliance. Proven track record of building and leading high-performing aviation teams, managing multimillion-dollar aircraft fleets, and delivering sustained zero-incident safety outcomes.Currently serving as Flight Services Director, overseeing a nationwide operation of 16 aircraft and $20M in aviation assets. Known for designing and implementing SMS programs aligned with IS-BAO standards, developing emergency response plans, and fostering Just Culture environments that shift organizations from reactive to proactive risk management.Experienced in scaling flight departments from the ground up, optimizing budgets and schedules, and ensuring 24/7 operational readiness across complex regulatory and airspace environments. Background spans manned aviation, aerial acquisition, surveying and mapping, and sensor operations.Credentials include Private Pilot (SEL/MEL/Instrument), FAA Part 107, Aviation Safety Professional certification, and ASPRS Certified Photogrammetrist, supported by an MBA and deep technical and operational expertise. Passionate about advancing aviation safety, operational excellence, and mission-focused leadership.Outside of aviation, I apply the same leadership principles as a Certified Volleyball Official for High School, NCAA, and USAV competitions, officiating more than 400 matches annually. Officiating at this level demands rapid decision-making, clear communication, impartial judgment, and accountability in high-pressure environments—skills that directly reinforce my leadership approach in aviation operations and safety management.
Experience
Flight Services Director
Jun 2025 — Present · Colorado Springs, CO, US
Directing nationwide aerial survey operations for a fleet of 16 aircraft and 30 crew members. • Implementing a comprehensive Safety Management System to enhance operational safety. • Documenting operational Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to streamline processes and ensure compliance.
Education
University of Regina
BSC Geography, Physical geography/cartography
1994 — 1998
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Master of Business Administration - MBA
2019 — 2021
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
Survey and Mapping Technology, mapping, GIS, survey
1999 — 2001
Find verified contacts for anyone on LinkedIn
Unifers gives sales teams verified emails and direct dials, enriched profiles, and outreach that lands in the inbox.
Free plan included · No credit card required
This profile is compiled from publicly available professional sources. Unifers is not affiliated with or endorsed by LinkedIn. Request removal of this profile.