"To protect, preserve, and promote General Aviation in Alaska"
WHAT IS THE ALASKA AIRMEN'S ASSOCIATION?
We are a non-profit 501 (c) 3 membership-based organization, established in 1951. We are the largest General Aviation (GA) organization in Alaska. With over 2,000 active members, this also makes it one of the largest GA groups in the country. Our sole purpose is to protect, preserve, and promote general aviation.
We host the Great Alaska Aviation Gathering, annually, with over 20,000 attendees and more than 200 exhibitors from around the world this is one of America's largest free-entry aviation tradeshows. We also host our annual Aircraft Raffle, which is the Association's main fundraiser source and the largest raffle hosted in Alaska.
Who IS THE ALASKA AIRMEN'S ASSOCIATION?
The Alaska Airmen's Association includes over 2,000 members—we are one of the largest General Aviation communities in the country. We strive to promote aviation, enhance safety and support initiatives that benefit pilots and grow the aviation community. Whether you're a veteran pilot or you've discovered a passion for aviation, the Alaska Airmen's Association is proud to welcome new members who share the wonders of flight in the Last Frontier!
WHO ARE OUR MEMBERS?
Our members include pilots, students through ATP, mechanics, airline employees, aviation enthusiasts, as well as individuals and businesses that have an interest in aviation. Our members reside in 5 countries, 46 states, and more than 50 Alaskan cities and villages. Membership is open to everyone, including non-Alaskan residents.
Board of Directors
STEPHEN RATCLIFF
President
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+ ABOUT
Stephen is a 2nd generation skywagon pilot and grew up with aviation as a part of his life when he started flying with his father in a 185 as a small child.
Stephen lived in Alaska and Wyoming as a boy before moving to Texas. He worked on his pilots' license while in college at Texas A&M University, when not studying to become a Petroleum Engineer. After graduation in 2003, he went to work in the oil & gas industry. In 2013 he moved back to Anchorage with his wife and son when he took a position with a startup oil company.
Stephen also serves on the board of directors for two energy related service companies as well as the Alaska Director for the 180/185 Club. Stephen is active in the community and more specifically in the aviation community and flying the great state of Alaska!
He is grateful at the opportunity to serve on the board for the Alaska Airmen Association and hopes to further the vision of aviation in the great state of Alaska.
ABE HARMAN
Vice President
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+ ABOUT
Abe is a pilot recreationally and a mechanical engineer professionally. He is originally from North Carolina, where his interest in aviation started at a young age after flying over the family farm on an EAA Young Eagles flight as a child. Experiences like this solidified the importance of sharing his passion for aviation with others.
After obtaining his pilot's license shortly after college, it was the pursuit of aviation-related jobs that brought him to Alaska, where he has worked previously as Lead Engineer and Head of Manufacturing for Airframes Alaska and Alaskan Bushwheel. It was through working on those projects related to and flying in Piper Super Cubs that his interest specifically in STOL and backcountry aircraft developed.
Currently, he is the co-owner of Helio Alaska, Inc. based at Birchwood Airport in Chugiak. Helio Alaska is the holder of the Type Certificate to the Helio Courier aircraft and they are working to return it to production. The Courier, like the Super Cub, is uniquely suited to the demands of backcountry and off-field flying in Alaska and other remote places. Many of the original production of Helio Couriers still in service are operating in Alaska and Northern Canada due to their short-field performance and rugged utility.
Abe is also an officer of the Birchwood Airport Association and the High School to Flight School nonprofit scholarship program for Anchorage and Mat-Su area high school students. The HSFS program is funded through private donations and strives to engage and support local young people wanting to become involved in aviation in Alaska by removing the financial burden of flight training for selected students who demonstrate exceptional work ethic and involvement in their community through volunteer programs.
STEPHANIE PAINTER
Treasurer
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+ ABOUT
Stephanie Painter is a 4th generation Alaskan and 3rd generation Alaska pilot. She started her flight training in Oregon while finishing up a BS in Geography and then returned to Alaska, eventually attaining her private certificate at Merrill Field in 2010.
Soon after getting her ticket, Stephanie and her partner (who eventually became her husband) acquired a 1950 PA-20 Pacer that opened the doors to all things Alaska and aviation. There was no looking back. Stephanie worked in multiple technical, supervisory and GIS mapping roles for the Municipality of Anchorage before leaving in 2016 to look after her budding aerial mapping business, JAV Imagery LLC. By 2018 the business was growing rapidly and her husband also left his career to join her. Together they operate 26 single and twin-engine planes in all 50 states. JAV Imagery has now had the pleasure of working with over 150 pilots, building time on their way to successful aviation careers. Stephanie is honored with the opportunity to serve as a board member with the Airmen and looks forward supporting the mission of creating a robust aviation community for current and future generations of Alaskans. She still has the Pacer, but now you will most often find her loading car seats and coolers into the back of a cherry red converted 182.
ADAM SKINNER
Secretary
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+ ABOUT
Aviation came a bit later for Adam in the form of a career change, fueled by the passion for flying that was instilled in him by his father and grandfather.
After completing his aviation degree in Walla Walla, WA, Adam moved to Talkeetna, Alaska to provide tailwheel and floatplane instruction. Adam, and his wife Reagan, thought they were embarking on a summer adventure, but decided to make Anchorage their permanent home after discovering Alaska’s beauty and unique way of life.
When not working as a corporate pilot on the North Slope, or on the family’s app-based aviation business, Adam enjoys spending time off exploring in the family PA-14.
Recognizing the privilege to fly in such a rewarding and challenging environment, he is passionate about sharing this opportunity with others. Adam is honored to serve on the board of the Alaska Airmen’s Association.
STEVEN LEWIS
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+ ABOUT
Hello, My name is Steven Lewis. My family and I, consisting of my wife, and our three teenage kids, have been residents of Alaska for the past thirteen years. We came for a vacation and never left, true story.
I've been an aviator for 30 years. My career began in sailplanes and tailwheel aircraft and has taken me into international heavy cargo. I spent ten years of those years flying medevac, cargo and flight instruction all throughout Alaska. That was rewarding and also gave me a first hand perspective of the the unique challenges facing aviation in our state. From the ever changing and often unpredictable weather patterns to complex terrain and complex social interactions. These challenges can be exciting, but they also require an alertness, respect and understanding that can't be underestimated. I will strive to share what I've learned from my personal experiences with the Airmen's Association. I am proud to lend a hand in the work of promoting and furthering aviation and aviation safety in this great state.
DAVID KRUMM
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+ ABOUT
Lieutenant General (Ret.) David Krumm is a trusted executive leader widely known as a strategic planner with demonstrated success building high-performance, effective teams and team of teams through empowerment, lasting relationship building, timely decision making, problem solving, and conflict management.
He is currently a Director of Strategy and Planning at BAE Systems and recently completed a diverse military career with his concluding assignment as the Commander of Alaska NORAD Region, Alaska Command, and the 11th Air Force. David possesses relevant and practical experience in a wide range of government, national security, and defense-related areas. He is a graduate of Auburn University and holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from that institution. David also attended Harvard University in the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs Program and is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Seminar 21 program.
ARAS SIRVELIS
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+ ABOUT
Aras’ aviation journey began at 12 years old, flying remote-controlled Super Cubs and dreaming of the real thing. By 16, he was already taking aviation classes in high school and working at Rust’s Flying Services. He earned his private pilot’s license by 18 and soon after, bought a Cessna 150 to build hours toward his commercial license. Things took an exciting turn when mechanical issues with his plane sparked a new passion for aircraft maintenance. Aras is now an FAA-certified A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) mechanic and an IA (Inspection Authorization) holder, as well as a commercial pilot. He currently flies a Super Cub, combining his love for flying with his deep knowledge of aircraft maintenance
TIM KOCHERT-
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+ ABOUT
Tim, a native of Indiana, first came to Alaska in 1977 with the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. He began working on his commercial, instrument, and multi-engine ratings at Merrill Field that same year. He also attended night classes at Anchorage Community College and UAA working on his degree. Tim obtained his CFI/CFII at Aero Tech Flight Service on Merrill Field where he was hired as an instructor. He moved from instructing to flying Piper Navajos, and later the Embraer-110 at Valdez Airlines. Flying multiple flights in and out of Valdez everyday were some of his most memorable Alaskan flying experiences. Tim left Alaska in the 1980’s chasing his dream to to fly for the airlines. He flew with several different airlines each gaining experience in larger and more complex aircraft. In 1987, Tim was hired by United Airlines. During his 35 year career, he flew Boeing 727, 737, 757, 767 and 777 aircraft. After making Captain on the B-737, he was selected as a line check airman. He later was chosen as an Evaluator, and an APD (Aircrew Program Designee) on 737, 757/767 and 777 aircraft respectively. Flying Captain on B-777 worldwide was definitely the highlight of his professional career. After retiring from a very fulfilling airline career, Tim moved back to Alaska to enjoy some of the most rewarding flying this world has to offer. Tim, along with his high school sweetheart, Rhonda, are enjoying being back in Alaska. He is looking forward to serving on the Alaska Airmen’s Association BOD, sharing his flying experiences with others, and helping youth get a start in aviation.
WHY SHOULD I BECOME A MEMBER?
The Alaska Airmen's Association maintains an active liaison with agencies and departments across the United States, the State of Alaska and local governments that are charged with the responsibility of regulating General Aviation.
Everyday we address important issues such as the closure of airstrips, airspace, state leasing regulations, weather, aircraft taxing, etc. Volunteers sit on numerous committees statewide representing you and the best interests of General Aviation.
We have several levels of membership to choose from. With each level, you will receive a substantial member benefits package. Each level includes our quarterly publication, to provide access to Association activities, such as pilot safety meetings, seminars, fly-ins, banquets, special events volunteer opportunities, the latest and greatest in General Aviation, and more! Membership discounts are available around the state and online, on fuel, aviation parts, survival equipment, labor and more.
Staff Members
PRISCILLA RIBIC
Executive Director
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+ ABOUT
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest (Spokane, WA), but Alaska has been home since 2007. While I didn’t grow up in aviation, I discovered my passion for flying later in life and have been fully immersed ever since. I thrive on the challenge of continuously expanding my knowledge, always working toward new ratings and certifications.
My husband, Larry, and I own multiple aircraft, including a unique experimental tailwheel bush plane—the Gair-Plane Alaska Mule. We have flown back and forth between Alaska and the Lower 48 over a dozen times, embracing the adventure. One of my favorite flying experiences so far has been in a seaplane. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to fly 27 different types of aircraft and earned my ATP license and Boeing 737-800 rating. I am also a CFII, sharing my passion for aviation through instruction.
Beyond aviation, I have an extensive background in banking, project management, and leadership. I served as the Executive Director for USA Powerlifting for nearly a decade, after which I shifted my focus entirely to aviation. I also have experience running local, national, and international events, as well as securing sponsorships to support various initiatives.
A fun fact about me—I was a member of the U.S. National Team for USA Powerlifting. I won multiple World Championships, earning my first Open World title in 2004 and my final one in 2017, the year I retired. Throughout my career, I traveled the world, set multiple world records, and medaled in every international competition I entered. I am honored to be inducted into the Hall of Fame for USA Powerlifting, North American Powerlifting, and the International Powerlifting Federation.
I am passionate about all things aviation and am excited to bring my experience and skills to the Alaska Airmen’s Association.
ed@alaskaairmen.org
ADAM WHITE
Government & Legislative Affairs Advocate
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+ ABOUT
Adam White is a Past President of the Alaska Airmen’s Association. He has led the Airmen’s Government and Legislative Affairs programs for over 18 years.
Adam has lived in the small rural community of Nenana for 30 years. He pilots an M7 Maule (on floats, wheels, and skis) and a Cessna 206. He has over 5,000 hours of accident-free off-airport flying in Alaska. Adam is a single- and multi-engine land and single-engine sea-rated commercial instrument pilot and a CFII and A&P mechanic.
adam.white@alaskaairmen.org
AYESHA WISE
Outreach & Marketing
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+ ABOUT
Originally from Washington, Ayesha has a bachelor's degree in art history and art studio. After college, she moved to Alaska to develop a connection to the water and the outdoors, a passion that led to a career as a yacht chef, boat captain and aviation enthusiast.
Now she divides her time between creating and selling art, navigating Alaska’s rugged waterways, and soaring through its vast skies. She has a private pilot license and is currently working on her Instrument Rating. With a solid foundation in maritime and an ever-growing love for aviation, she brings a unique perspective to her work with the Alaska Airmen’s Association.
Ayesha is excited to share her passion for aviation in Alaska with others, helping foster a community of adventurers, and protecting aviation in Alaska. Whether at the helm or in the cockpit, Ayesha is dedicated to exploring and celebrating all that Alaska has to offer.
marketing@alaskaairmen.org
ANDRE BERGERSON
Operations Assistant
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+ ABOUT
Andre’s curiosity for aviation began during his frequent moves as an Army brat. Originally born in Texas, he now calls Alaska home, where his passion for aviation and the outdoors has flourished. Currently studying at the University of Alaska Anchorage, he is on track to graduate with a BS in Aviation Management and a minor in Air Traffic Control. He plans to continue exploring all areas of aviation with the goal of eventually earning his A&P license and Private Pilot certificate.
Andre’s aviation experience is continually growing, alongside his passion. He looks forward to continuing his professional development with the Airmen’s Association, where he gets to share his enthusiasm with all who stop by.
operations@alaskaairmen.org
Contact Us
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Send us a message and we will get back to you shortly.
Business Hours
Monday - Friday
9:00AM - 5:00PM AKST
Phone
Address
Alaska Airmen's Association
4200 Floatplane Drive
Anchorage, AK 99502