Trey began his military career as a Private, E-2, he found his place as a 15J (Armament/Electrical & Avionics Repairer) on the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior Helicopter. However, a desire to do more and a unique chance to join the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Ole Miss led him to pursue a degree and graduate as an officer in 2011.

Military cockpit to civilian flight deck

During a deployment to the Middle East, Trey contemplated his post-military career path. The turning point came as he boarded a plane home, adorned with the American flag on its tail. Inspired by the symbolism and a yearning to bring his fellow service members back from war, he set his sights on a career in commercial aviation – A decision that led him to join Envoy in 2019.

When asked to share his advice with fellow service members transitioning to civilian life or contemplating a career shift, Trey advised others to, “find your passion and pursue it relentlessly. Whether it’s flying commercially or engaging in another field, do not let fear or uncertainty hinder you.”

A check off the bucket list

Earlier this year, Trey had the honor of returning to his alma mater to deliver the game ball at the Ole Miss Veteran’s Appreciation Game. “Flying over the stadium during the National Anthem and being announced on the field during the 3rd quarter made my experience truly special,” shared Trey. “It was a full circle moment that checked off a significant item on my bucket list.”

Trey’s journey from the military to commercial aviation has been a testament to the opportunities and personal growth that military service can offer. As he continues to pursue his passion for flying and serving his country, he encourages others to embrace their dreams, overcome obstacles, and seize the opportunities that arise.

Interested in a transition from the military to commercial aviation? Click here to read more about our Rotor Transition Program.

As proud supporters of the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF), Envoy and American Airlines continue to provide charters and assistance, in the air and on the ground, to actor and humanitarian, Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band,as they bring honor, gratitude and rock ‘n’ roll to the military community.

Band aides are there because of the music — and to support our nation’s heroes.

Earlier this year, the Lt. Dan Band visited numerous locations across Envoy’s network where music fans (also known as Envoy employees) were happy to greet them upon arrival. One of the earlier stops in the year was at Watertown International Airport (ART) in Jefferson County, NY when the band played at the nearby U.S. Army Base in Fort Drum, NY.

“We had an Envoy Embraer 170 charter with a very special guest onboard. It was an awesome experience, and it was wonderful to work with our team from the System Operations Control (SOC), Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band members. It was a true pleasure,” said ART General Manager, Cheryl Weaver.

9/11 Never Forget

After their visit to ART, the Lt. Dan Band did a three-city tour. They visited Fort Liberty and Charlotte, NC and closed the tour in Erie, PA on September 11th for First Responder Appreciation Day at the Highmark Amphitheatre at Liberty Park. With the concert open to the public, over 3,000 people were in attendance.

“It was such an incredible honor uplifting local first responders of Erie, PA, on September 11th during our Gary Sinise Foundation First Responders Appreciation Day. The 22nd anniversary of the attack on our country was spent connecting with folks who answer the call every day, and the families who sacrifice alongside them. A huge turnout for our concert! It was a joy to see this wonderful community having a great time celebrating their local police and fire departments”, said Sinise on his Instagram account.

“This is the second charter that I’ve had the honor of working. They have both impacted my life greatly”, said Chicago O’Hare (ORD) based Flight Attendant, Twyla Balstad, who was part of the crew on the three-city tour. “The energy at the concert on September 11th that was expended by the band was soaked up by the crowd. I can’t even begin to describe it, it was an incredible experience”, she continued.

To learn more about the GSF charter from September, view the video below and be sure to click HERE to see the gallery of photos from the Lt. Dan Band concert in Fort Liberty, NC on September 9th.

Cover photo: Molly Callinan (left), Gary Sinise (right) with the Lt. Dan Band, rockin’ out in Fort Liberty, NC.

For two months, Alex and First Officer Jake Jeronimus worked together, trained together and even stayed a couple doors down from one another in their dorms. 

Birds of an Envoy feather apparently train at Maxwell AFB together.

In honor of Veterans Day, we met up with Alex to learn more about his time at Maxwell AFB, his commitment to his country and what Envoy’s support of the military means to him.

Alex Dupuis on the flight deck of an Embraer 145 back when he was a First Officer for Envoy. (Photo courtesy of Alex Dupuis)

Tell us about your journey to Envoy.

I’m 28 years old, and I’ve been with Envoy for the last four years. I’m currently sitting Captain on the Embraer 175.

As a kid, I was involved with programs such as Civil Air Patrol and JROTC in my home state of Alaska. It inspired me to pursue a career in aviation at the age of 13. 

I began flight lessons in both powered and gliders at age 15 and have been hooked ever since. I got my start building flight hours in Alaska running freight and passenger air service in DC-3’s, Navajo Chieftains and Caravans.

I chose Envoy because they offered an opportunity to see more places and gain valuable experience.

Why the Air Force? And why serve your country?

I believe each and every one of us has a duty to service. Not just military, but a political office or community service involvement can all have an impact on our community. 

Continuing to serve in the Alaska Air National Guard has always been a means for me to give back and continue serving my community.

For those who don’t know, can you explain the military leave process for pilots at Envoy? How did it benefit you?

When called for military duty, it’s thankfully as easy as notifying the company with your required attendance dates. Once Crew Scheduling has the dates, which is fairly quick, you’re removed from whichever flying falls within that footprint. 

This streamlined process has been simple and most helpful.

Alex Dupuis (left) and Jake Jeronimus at Maxwell Air Force Base. (Photo courtesy of Alex Dupuis)

Envoy proudly supports military veterans and their families; does that give you a sense of pride being both an Envoy pilot and servicemember?

Sure it does! Maintaining currency and more importantly, proficiency, with both can at times be a struggle. It is however a good feeling having support from the company.

What does Veterans Day mean to you?

Besides being like any other day of the week, it’s a day to remember and reflect on our heritage and sacrifices. It’s an opportunity to be self aware of the impacts it takes on our careers, our livelihoods, relationships with friends and family.

Captain Alex Dupuis standing by the tail of an Embraer 175. (Photo courtesy of Alex Dupuis).

How can you apply what you learned at Maxwell to your job as an Envoy pilot?

Officer Training school is a 9-week intensive program designed to immerse candidates into a leadership mindset. Taking this mindset and training into the flight deck at Envoy will empower the two of us to be stronger and better prepared crew members.

What’s next in your careers, as for in the military or at Envoy/American?

As for my military career, I report next spring to the Air Force’s Undergraduate Pilot Training course. That involves a ten-month curriculum flying the T-6 II Texan and T-1 Beech Jet. After that, upgrade training into the C-17 Globemaster at Altus Air Force Base.

Cover photo: Captain Alex Dupuis and First Officer Jake Jeronimus. (Courtesy of CA Dupuis)

All hands on deck! It’s a phrase we’re hearing all too often these days.

When Envoy First Officers Adam Kee, Brian DePuy, and Derek Schurman heard that American Airlines was drumming up volunteers to send care packages to military service members, they jumped on the chance to help. Now, they’re forming a drive of their own.

With a goal of sending 1,000 packages, Brian, 25, said that they are “fortunate” to be in a position to help out by virtue of their pilot profession and affiliation with Envoy and American.

“Community service is fundamental to our society,” Brian said. “When society needs it most, regardless of how things are going for you, it’s important to contribute. As a pilot, I recognize that I have the means, time, and connections to be involved. As such, it’s only natural to make good on this duty.”

Pay it forward

Adam, 25, who spent six years in the Air Force Reserve, has always known the military life since his father served in the U.S. Army for 32 years. That longstanding love for veterans and the military is what inspired him to join in the efforts.

“Having served in the military, I try to volunteer when I hear of events that would enable me to ‘pay it forward’ to other service members,” Adam said. “We hope that these care packages help relieve some of the stress from these difficult situations and let service members know that we care about those sacrificing so much to help our country during this crisis.”

Brian didn’t serve in the military but said that his support is to show respect to the people who serve the country and “are truly one of our nations greatest assets.”

“Working at Envoy, I’ve seen the caliber of individuals that the military produces and wanted to do my part to support the opportunities they sacrificed for,” Brian said.

As they begin reaching out to friends, families and coworkers, the three First Officers are hoping they can find enough volunteers who are as passionate as they are about helping service members. Assuming they raise enough money by June 10, they plan on holding packaging events to assemble the thousand care packages in the next few weeks.

Until then, they’ll continue to heed any call that comes their way, be it as a pilot or a concerned citizen.

“An airline pilot’s commitment to the safety and well-being of our passengers becomes a part of our daily lives,” said Adam. “So naturally, helping others during this crisis is a responsibility I take very seriously.”

If you want to get involved in this grassroots effort and join Adam, Brian and Derek with their drive, you can send an email to Brian at (brian.depuy@aa.com) or Adam at (adam.kee@aa.com). If you wish, you can also make contributions by donating to defendersoffreedom.us and let them know it’s for Envoy Care Packages.

]]> /2020/06/01/silver-linings-envoy-pilots-start-grassroots-campaign-military-2/feed/ 0 /2019/11/20/ex-army-envoy-pilot-golfer-lands-green-dfw-2/ /2019/11/20/ex-army-envoy-pilot-golfer-lands-green-dfw-2/#respond Wed, 20 Nov 2019 20:14:21 +0000 /?p=12641 It took a few years, but Colter Kautzmann now realizes that he can’t always swing for the hole-in-one. Maturity, a family to care for, and a steady career have taught the amateur golfer – and Envoy First Officer – that sometimes life is about growing up and keeping the ball in play.

Right out of high school, Colter received a scholarship to play golf at the University of Idaho, but soon after college followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the military as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot. Colter had also just met Sara, his soon-to-be wife, which played a part in his decision to enlist.

For a few years, Colter and his family lived the military life – moving from one country to the next – which he knew all too well, having grown up the son of an Air Force pilot. However, during his deployment in Germany, his mother was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer and her condition worsened, prompting Colter to request a move to the Arizona Army Guard where he and his family could be closer to her.

Although his domestic tasks were of a more tame variety than the Medevac missions he performed in Europe and the Middle East, Colter still enjoyed it given his passion for aviation. Eventually, Colter’s interest to become a commercial pilot was piqued when he got word that Envoy had created the first Rotor Transition Program for military helicopter pilots.

“At the time, if you wanted to be an airline pilot, you had to do it on your own,” said Colter. “The fact that Envoy did their homework and were the frontrunners for the Rotor Transition Program made me choose Envoy. They had everything we needed and made a great plan for pilots like me to make an easy transition.”

Perfect fit

As far as First Officer training, Colter said there are a lot of similarities between Envoy and the Army. Colter especially appreciated the step-by-step process communicated to the pilot trainees, which kept everyone abreast of what to expect and focused on the learning aspect of training.

He also mentioned that Envoy was smart in going after military pilots, because they have experience working as a crew. Just like on a Medevac mission, Colter and his fellow crewmates depend on strong communication and proper planning for every departure.

His years of experience, whether it be in the military or playing golf, are something Colter wears proudly like a badge of honor. He said he’s never felt any regret starting his aviation career later than most pilots.

“The experiences that my family and I have had has prepared us for this opportunity,” said Colter. “I’m 35 years old, so that means I still have 30 years left with the company. You can’t really ask for much more than that in terms of career stability.”

Back in the swing of things

After a few years off from Colter’s true passion of playing golf, he is now at a place where he can focus on competing at the same level he played at during college. He’s a member of the Veteran Golf Association (VGA), a non-profit organization promoting service members who play the links, and has basically picked up where he left off.

As a result of his fantastic play in VGA tournaments, he was named 2019 VGA Overall Men’s Champion, which granted him entry into professional tournaments on the PGA Tour. In 2020, Colter will be competing at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and A Military Tribute at the Greenbrier, as well as taking part in Jordan Spieth’s Top Golf Fundraiser.

Even though he had to tweak a few things about his game, Colter feels that this is the best he’s ever played. He said that a big part of his success is his ball striking and the ability to place the ball where it needs to be.

He said he views his career the same way. For years in the military and as a new pilot, he was always looking for the next milestone, but now just wants to enjoy the moment.

Getting in the groove

Without a doubt, Colter said, he wouldn’t be in this great of spot in his life if it weren’t for the support of his family. For now, Colter, his wife and two daughters are cherishing the moment in their new home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where they can be closer to Colter’s father who is a test pilot at Gulfstream Aerospace.

At this stage in his life, it seems that Colter is planting some roots and really finding a groove in life.

“I’ve just matured enough to see that it’s not just about a long drive off the tee,” Colter said. “It’s like the flow to American; sure, it’s an incredible and exciting part of being an Envoy pilot. But I don’t want to get ahead of myself. I’m just happy keeping the ball on the green, for now.”

First, I’d like to thank Envoy for giving me the opportunity by creating the very first RTP. I’m thankful that they were willing to train military helicopter pilots, and help ease the transition.

Their foresight has taken hold of the regional airline industry, and set up opportunities to help the military community transition into one of the best careers imaginable.

On the move

I transitioned from active duty in the Army after almost 10 years of service in April 2017. I spent most of my time flying Blackhawks in Assault and Medevac units between Ft. Campbell and Hunter Army Airfield.

My timing for the transition could not have been better.

Shortly after I made the decision to become an airline pilot, the industry as a whole began increasing their compensation for pilots. A few months later, Envoy went public with their RTP and I was one of the first to interview.

When I started at Envoy for training, it was some of the most intense training I had experienced to that point. With help from my classmates and guidance from their experienced training department, I made it through to my first flights as an airline pilot.

I was fortunate enough to be based out of Chicago – I’ll tell you that no other airport is better to cut your teeth. If you can handle it there, you can handle it anywhere.

My Initial Operating Experience training was a blast! Everything happens quickly above 250 knots and trying to stay ahead is tough to wrap your head around at first, but you’ll get the hang of it before your instructor releases you to the line.

Luckily, our prior experience flying military helicopters pays dividends. Our experience managing crews is extremely helpful, and our ability to manage high-stress situations is also a plus.

Just stay humble and listen to and seek advice from the many captains with whom you will fly. There is a wealth of knowledge coming from the pilots who have sat in those seats.

Boost your Quality of Life

First Officer Richie Mercado (right) with fellow Envoy RTP pilot, First Officer Shawn McLaughlin

After training, the day-to-day job is amazing – I truly love it! I find myself looking out the window like a child amazed that I’m cruising at six miles above the ground. I’m doing the job I never thought was within my reach growing up.

The best part of the job is the off time; my wife loves it, too. When I’m home, I’m 100-percent home.

That time at home has a higher quality today than it ever did on my weekends or leave while in the Army. Now that I’m here, it would be hard for me to go back to any other job that would require me to work the hours I did in the Army.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to serve our nation, and to support our military overseas. Now that I am a regional airline pilot with Envoy, I feel as though my life can only take off from here.

Where It All Began

It was third grade, and I’m playing four-square during recess holding the coveted “A” server square, when an airplane flies over. I take a moment to pause from serving to admire the magic of flight overhead.

It was here that I knew what I wanted to do in life and where my passion lied; a career where I would never have to work a single day, one of an airline pilot. Soon after that moment, my dad purchased my first remote controlled airplane. I was addicted, flying them year round.

However, that was not enough, I wanted to actually fly them. I went to my local airport, West Michigan Regional Airport, and took my discovery flight.

I was hooked, I still remember that flight clearly. However, my flight instructor explained the vast amount of studying and challenges I would face in acquiring my licenses to one day be an airline pilot – a challenge I happily accepted.

The Wright Stuff

Years later, I graduated from Western Michigan University majoring in Aviation Flight Science and joined the U.S. Navy. After Officer Candidate School graduation, I pursued my dreams of being an airline pilot, and interviewed at Envoy Air, where I acquired a Cadet Instructor position teaching individuals the principles of flight.

The Cadet Program afforded me the chance to experience what so many of my professors had the ability to watch someone grow. I learned that teachers who love teaching, teach individuals to love learning.

My job caused me to gain a new passion in life – a passion for teaching. I learned that a great teacher’s passion for the subject gets their students curious about the subject material and generates enthusiasm in the classroom.

That affects the students’ performance, and drives their success. As a flight instructor, I loved the opportunity to challenge my students and push them to be the best pilot they can be.

Attitude is Everything

During flight instructing, I observed that student performance is greatly altered by the instructor’s assessment of the student’s ability. If the instructor thinks that the student has the aptitude and skill, the belief will become reality.

A good instructor needs all of these skills. An instructor that knows a lot but has poor communication skills will have a hard time conveying knowledge to their students.

As a flight instructor, I begin by figuring out my student’s hobbies and what he or she enjoys. This allows me to tailor the information in ways they will easily understand.

As a pilot and a teacher, I knew I should never stop learning no matter what. In an effort to provide the best instruction and knowledge to my students, I acquired my Master of Science in Aeronautics, double majoring in Aeronautics and Human Factors in Aviation Systems.

I am currently working on a second master’s degree with a double major, and I plan to pursue a PhD in General Psychology, specializing in Cognitive Science, Human Factors and Human Performance in Aviation Systems.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”- Nelson Mandela

Life at Envoy

At Envoy Air, I now work as a Check Airman. With my position, I’m afforded the opportunity to help new hires become prepared, successful, and safe airline pilots.

Along with being a Check Airman, I’m also an ALPA Mentor and volunteer with the Education Committee. It is through these programs that I’m able to help pilots with situations and questions that arise from day-to-day operations and life challenges, as well as spread the love for flight through pilot educational programs.

My career provides me great satisfaction from how I am able to connect the world, and get passengers to where they need to be safely. I love hearing from flight attendants and ground personnel that they are following their dream and starting their flight lessons — it is never too late to pursue any passion, whether it’s teaching, flying, starting your own business or going back to school.

“Do or do not. There is no try”- Yoda

Now that Q3 (July-September) is almost over, Envoy’s Rotor Transition Program has both exciting milestones and changes to celebrate. This quarter, the program passed it’s two year anniversary, quickly surpassed it’s 300th student, and saw it’s first Captain upgrade. As the end of the year fast approaches, the Rotor Transition Program will continue to honor it’s past while forging ahead.

 Click here to read about the changes coming to RTP!

In the sweltering Alabama heat, thousands of aviators and aviation enthusiasts gathered to take in the glory of the Red Tails Over Montgomery Air Show, and to get up close with the marvelous flying machines that some can only dream to fly.

As part of its continuing support for our country’s military and veterans, Envoy was also part of the air show with a static display of the Embraer 175. For two days, on September 7 and 8, a crew of three Envoy pilots and three flight attendants gave a tour of the aircraft, from the cabin to the galleys to the flight deck.

Welcome aboard

One after another, thousands of attendees walked down the aisle, sat in the first class cabin and picked up a few cookies along the way. Many who passed through remarked how it was their first time aboard a commercial aircraft, and were eager to take a flight of their own.

Over the loudspeaker, the air show emcee revved up the crowd as he announced the next acts. Taxiing across the tarmac and onto the runway, a bright green and purple carbon-fiber plane took its position before taking off into a spectacular array of aerobatics that seemed to defy the law of physics.

Throughout the day, there were paratroopers showing off their precision landings, a taildragger landing on top of a moving truck, Marine A-4 Skyhawks performing tight barrel rolls, Red Tail F-16s from the 187^th Fighter Wing demonstrating tactical ground-support missions, and – best of all – the F-22 Raptor, in all its glory, slicing through the sky with the greatest of ease.

“The sound of freedom”

On the ground, a Red Tail P-51 Mustang and a B-17 Flying Fortress were on display to pay homage to the Tuskegee Airmen who escorted B-17 bombers to great success during World War II. Like swarms of bees to mighty flowers, air show attendees got to touch and experience the iconic aircraft of the U.S. Military, like the C-130 Hercules and KC-135 Stratotanker.

Whether a Junior ROTC cadet or a general aviation enthusiast, the common thread weaving through the crowd was their love and respect for our country and the men and women who serve in the military to keep us safe. There was no shortage of American flags, salutes to passing guardsmen or hands-on-hearts during the National Anthem.

“We had the best vantage point for the air show and as each jet flew over, the sound of freedom was felt by all of us.” said Envoy First Officer Jim Davis. “I’m proud to fly for Envoy knowing that it takes amazing care of its veterans and supports military initiatives alongside American Airlines.”

We’d like to thank the men and women at Dannelly Field who helped guide our plane, hooked us up with power and cool air, and for serving our country on a daily basis. Also, to the Envoy crew who attended the event and made it a special day for everyone involved, thank you: Captain Kyle Brantley and First Officer Jim Davis; Flight Attendants Elizabeth Bustamante, Alicia Morris and Jennifer Psota; and pilot recruiter First Officer Tyler Bridge.

Click here to view all of the photos from the Red Tails Over Montgomery Air Show

That scene was virtually duplicated at Boeing’s Puget Sound assembly factory when avid aviation enthusiast Jace Nylund first set eyes on his beloved Boeing 737 MAX on the production line.

Jace, who is diagnosed with autism, is a senior at Colleyville Heritage High School in Colleyville, Texas, and a close friend of Envoy Captain Nick Kinner. Nick and Jace met through Nick’s wife’s former employer Best Buddies International, which is a non-profit that “creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” according to their website.

A sight to behold

Jace (right) with his parents as they tour the 737 assembly line in Renton, WA. (Photo courtesy of Boeing/Jeppesen)

Familiar with Jace’s obsession with Boeing, Nick proposed the idea to offer Jace a tour of Boeing’s facilities to Jeppesen executive Mary Skelton who works with their parent company Boeing. She, in turn, proposed the idea to members of the Boeing team, and they were more than happy to offer a tour to one of their biggest fans.

“I knew Jace was big into another airline’s 737 MAX, so I took this opportunity to sway him to American Airlines,” said Nick. “Now Jace has set a goal to work at American as a Fleet Service Clerk – I guess I won him over!”

During their two days in Washington, Jace, Nick and their families toured the Boeing flight museum and the factories where they build the 737s and their heavy jets; the 777 and 787. Boeing also awarded Jace with a leather Boeing jacket with Test Pilot badges.

“There was not a dry eye in the room as Jace donned the jacket and wore it proudly,” Mary wrote in an email.

“You should have seen the look on his face,” said Nick. “It was unbelievable to see how excited he was. He kept telling us that this was the best day of his life.”

“I love giving back.”

Captain Nick (right) with a WWII veteran during the Brookshire’s Honor Flight.

For years, Nick and his wife Faye have worked or volunteered to help others, and continue to help out for Best Buddies events at least twice a month. At Envoy, Nick is frequently volunteering his time and flying for military charters, such as the Gary Sinise Foundation and Brookshire’s Honor Flight.

Both of Nick’s grandfathers served in the military and his cousin has Down Syndrome, so naturally he wants to help those who are close to his heart.

“I enjoy volunteering, because I love giving back,” said Nick. “With veterans or people with disabilities, it’s important to be inclusive and treat and respect them like you would anyone else.”

Captain Nick (second from left) with Envoy volunteers and flight crew in Washington D.C.

Although Nick is about 11 months from flowing to American, he hopes to continue his passion for volunteerism once he joins the mainline. That shouldn’t be too difficult considering Envoy and American’s frequent collaboration on charity initiatives like Sky Ball, Maagic Flights and Snowball Express.

“I’ll continue to help in any way I can,” said Nick. “I’d recommend it to anyone working at Envoy. It’s such an unbelievable experience.”

And, even though Nick was the connection between Jace and Boeing, he’s just glad he could help.

“Boeing and Jepessen went way, way above and beyond,” said Nick. “They deserve all the credit for that amazing tour with Jace.”

Cover photo (courtesy of Boeing/Jeppesen): Left to Right; Jace Nylund, Kevin Rathke, Faye Kinner, Jill Rathke, Nick Kinner , Mary Skelton (Boeing), Steve Lusk (Boeing), Cade Nylund