With so many glass cockpit and navigation options now available, a review of GPS and the navigation benefits it provides is in order. Ray Hecker will present how the GPS system works and how it is integrated into todays VFR and IFR flying. If you are new to aviation or an old pelican, this is a WINGS session you don’t want to miss.
Ray Hecker has been around aviation his entire life. His father, a WWII B-17 Lead Pilot (USAAF – 8th Air Force, 381st BG (Heavy) in England, 1943 - 1944), exposed him to flying at a very young age.
Ray soloed gliders at the age of 17 at Schweitzer’s Soaring School in Elmira, NY (Harris Hill) and continued his love of aviation and flight by becoming a “rocket scientist”. Ray’s academic credentials include a BS in Aerospace and Fluid Dynamics Engineering from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Pepperdine. In the midst of that effort, he worked toward his Masters in Material Science Engineering at the University of Illinois.
Ray’s powered flight experience includes CFII, MEI, AGI and IGI instructor ratings to complement his Commercial Pilot license for ASEL, ASES, AMEL and Instrument Airplane ratings with tail wheel and high altitude endorsements. He has instructed for over 15 years and has over 5,000 hours in ground, simulator (ATD) and flight Instruction hours to his credit.
Ray has flown and instructed in nearly 60 different makes and models of airplanes. He is an FAA Safety Team Representative (Aviation Safety Counselor) and an EAA Flight Advisor.