Blake Stephens

I earned a bachelor's degree in Aeronautics with a minor in Unmanned Systems (UAS) from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Currently, I work as a Flight Operations Specialist for Jet 1 in Naples, Florida, where I dispatch aircraft across both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Additionally, I serve as a First Lieutenant in the Florida Army National Guard, leading a platoon in the 1-124th Infantry Regiment, 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

Jet 1 Flight Operations

                          Flight Coordinator                                                                               February 2024-Present 

  Coordinated owner flights and charter flights for 7 different aircraft, managed the schedule and crewing for trips. Also filled the role of Client Services while managing operational control of the fleet. Primary focus was catering to owners and clients’ need whether in the client services role or in the logistical aspect of the flight.  Managed the logistical operations of the charter fleet, ensuring flights were dispatched on time and executed seamlessly. Oversaw scheduling for different aircraft models, optimizing crew assignments and resource use.

Elite Jets Flight Operations                                                                       December 2021 – Feb 2024

                          Flight Operations Specialist

                          Orchestrated the dispatch of Part 135 and Part 91 charter fleet aircraft, managing operations in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. Spearheaded the arrangement of permits and handling for all foreign-bound aircraft, navigating international regulations and compliance. Oversaw the logistical aspects of charter fleet operations, ensuring timely dispatch and smooth execution of flights. Managed scheduling for various aircraft models, optimizing crew allocation and resource utilization

U.S. ARMY / Florida National Guard                                                          Fall 2021 – Present

                          Infantry officer/Platoon Leader

                          Security Clearance:  Secret

                          Infantry Platoon Leader in the 53rd Infantry Brigade Florida National Guard. Currently in charge of 47 other soldiers and able to lead and Infantry platoon into combat. Successfully coordinated and executed operations during Hurricane Ian in Southwest Florida. Established and managed pod sites for families, ensuring efficient distribution of food and water. Achieved the highest supply delivery in the state of Florida by overseeing two strategically placed pod sites. Provided real-time analysis to the state regarding pod site operations, enhancing the overall response efficiency. Received commendations for overseeing the most successful supply distribution in the state.

Aero Head Drone Videography LLC                                                           January 2019 – 2022

                          Founder

Pursued Part 107 certification to gain practical experience in UAS operations. Developed proficiency in aerial photography, thermal imaging, and applications in commercial real estate, marine, and aviation industries.

                          Experimental Holdings LLC                                                                    Cincinnati OH

                           Assistant to Property Manager                                                               May 2017 - August 2020

                          Assisted the maintenance supervisor on buildouts, blueprint review, budgeting, and property maintenance.

                          Managed/lead small crew on build outs across the buildings in the portfolio.

 Entered and tracked inventory of supplies, tools, and crew hours.         

EDUCATION     Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University                                                       Daytona Beach, FL

                          Bachelor of Science: Aeronautical Science                                               December 2021

                          Minor: Unmanned Systems, Military Science 

                          Area of Concentration: Commercial Flight, Aerodynamics 

 Member, Embry-Riddle Future Space Explorers and Developers Society