Instructors - Pitt Meadows Base
SERGIO NAVARRO
Class 3 Flight Instructor
Sergio is a class 3 instructor with over 800 hours of experience on powered aircraft. Originally from Mexico, he moved to Canada in 2016 to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot, and also discovered a passion for teaching others how to fly.
MATTHEW HERBERT
Class 4 Flight Instructor
Matthew is a Class 4 flight instructor originally from England, moving to Canada in 2015 and completing all of his flight training in the lower mainland before finding his calling in helping others follow the same path.
CARLOS PRIETO
Class 4 Flight Instructor
CHRIS CHEN
Class 4 Flight Instructor
Chris has been in the aviation industry for 10 years. He holds a Bachelor's Degree from CAUC (Civil Aviation University of China) and spent four years working for Air China. It was there that he discovered his passion for becoming a pilot and decided to begin his journey in Calgary, AB. He completed his PPL, CPL, and Multi IFR in Alberta. Subsequently, he completed his Instructor Rating in Abbotsford, BC. Chris served as a flight instructor in Fredericton, NB, before returning to BC. Outside of aviation, he can be found in the gym or hiking with his pup and family, exploring the mountains.
NISHRANTH SARAVANAN
Class 4 Flight Instructor
MOHPREET BATH
Class 4 Flight Instructor
Instructors - Springbank Base
RHODIELYN PADILLA
Assitant Chief Flight InstructorClass 1 Flight Instructor
Rhodielyn has been a part of the aviation industry for the last 15 years working in various roles from Gate Agent, Logistics Personnel, to Class 1 Flight Instructor with over 2000 hours of flight experience. She’s received various flying scholarships with one being her Glider Pilot License through the Air Cadet Program. When she’s not at ECFI she’s a rhythmic gymnast, and every 4 years she and her team represent Team Canada at World Gymnaestrada in Europe. She also teaches and practices yoga, consults in holistic nutrition, and educates women and under-represented groups about the world of aviation as an alumna of Elevate Aviation.
JASON JINWOOK CHOI
Class 4 Flight Instructor
Jason was born in Korea and raised in Illinois, USA. He returned to Korea to study Business at Dongguk University in Seoul. He served as a sergeant and translator in the Korea-USA Army (KATUSA). After completing his military service, Jason trained at Westwind School of Aeronautics in Phoenix, Arizona, and worked as a CFI and CFII. Post-COVID, he moved to Canada, obtained permanent residency, converted his FAA licenses, and now works as a Class 4 Flight Instructor.
SAM GILLIS
Class 3 Flight Instructor
HARJESVEN PHARWAN
Class 3 Flight Instructor
CRAIG DENISCHUK
Class 4 Flight Instructor
DEEPAK RAJ KONGATH
Class 4 Flight Instructor
RAY TAM
Class 4 Flight Instructor
Staff
MELISSA THORNE
Director of Operations
Melissa thrives on the pulse of our bases, orchestrating our day-to-day operations with precision and flair. With a rich background in process management, customer service, and a former role as an Authorised Person, she ignites every task with an infectious passion for excellence. Melissa is the driving force behind our mission to deliver an unparalleled experience to every visitor at Executive Compass Flight Institute.
ROMAN RAPOPORT
Director of Maintenance
Roman had a desire and passion for aircraft maintenance ever since he was young which has developed into today with over 10 years of experience in the aviation maintenance industry. He has worked at Canada’s largest regional airlines providing aircraft maintenance to the highest industry standards.
ALLEN LI
Digital Marketing Manager
Allen is the Marketing & Tech Specialist with expertise in utilizing digital marketing techniques to develop ongoing strategies. He is passionate about business innovation and leading successful marketing campaigns. In addition to his professional pursuits, Allen is also a commercial captain and is passionate about sea fishing. When he's not working, he can often be found on a boat, fishing somewhere in the Strait of Georgia.
YINGYAN ZHU
Apprentice