ABOUT US
Meet Our Team
Brian Fredrickson
CEO
CFI, CFII, MEI, AGI, and IGI
Brian's love for aviation started at the age of 4 when he told his grandfather he wanted to be a pilot and a surgeon. He did not like blood, so he opted for the aviation route and got his Private Pilot's License at 16. He obtained the rest of his rating from Spartan School of Aeronautics and instructed for about three years before stepping away from aviation for over 25 years.
In 2020, due to a tragedy, he wanted to return to aviation and began flight instruction again. While teaching, he witnessed a lack of professionalism and care for the student's needs. Providing quality flight instruction for the next generation of aviation professionals became a priority.
Core stick and rudder skills had been lost due to a heavy reliance on avionics rather than understanding aircraft performance in flight. Brian wanted to make a difference for pilots in training and launched Fredrickson Aviation. The school's primary goal is to provide quality instruction and focus on individual needs while driving students to have higher standards and safety.
Wayne Hunter
Instructor
CFI and CFII
Wayne's aviation journey began in 2006 with Private Pilot training in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, with ambitions of being an airline pilot. He achieved his ratings through many years of sacrifice and began flying for Air Wisconsin (United Express) in 2017. While flying to build the required hours for an airline job, he recognized that he had developed a passion for instructing and had lost interest in the airlines.
Wayne graduated from Everglades University in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management. In 2020, he earned a Master of Science with dual specializations in Aeronautics and Adult Education at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
He has over 2,000 hours of total flight time, of which 1,600 hours are dual instruction. While working for a busy flight school in North Texas, he became an FAA Check Airman, which provided him with unique insights into best practices for flight training. 80% of Wayne's students' first check rides have a passing score. Wayne looks forward to working with you to see you achieve your dreams of becoming a pilot and earning additional ratings.
Will Eastman
Instructor
CFI
In 2021, unfulfilled with his nine-to-five job, Will began his aviation journey. He trained around the busy airspace of Atlanta, GA, to complete his PPL. Enrolling in Fredrickson Aviation CFI and CFII programs, Will excelled.
His unique background in coaching corporate executive leaders and high-level gymnastics elevates Will's ability to relate to his students and has made him an exceptional CFI's at Fredrickson Aviation.
Andy Senter
Instructor
CFI and CFII
Andy's passion for aviation ignited at a young age, inspired by skydivers at a local airport and the EAA Young Eagles program. He earned his Private Pilot License in 2005 and obtained his Instrument and Single-Engine Seaplane ratings by 2018.
Andy achieved his Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) rating in 2024 and aims to earn multi-engine ratings next. With over 1,700 flight hours and a Commercial Multi-Engine Instrument rating, Andy is dedicated to providing top-notch instruction.
Andy's dedication and commitment to your success are his top priorities. In addition to instructing at Fredrickson Aviation, he teaches at Westridge High School in Kingsport, Tennessee.
Will Smith
Instructor
CFI
Originally from Charlotte, NC, Will is a dedicated aviation professional with a strong foundation in both construction and aviation. After graduating from East Carolina University, Will spent several years in the construction industry before discovering his passion for flying.
He pursued his aviation training at Concord Regional Airport, earning his Commercial Single and Multi-Engine licenses, Instrument Rating, and becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). Will has extensive experience with various aircraft and avionics systems, making him a versatile, skilled pilot and instructor.
Glenn (Ruogu) Xu
Flight and Ground Instructor
CFI and AGI
Glenn (Ruogu) Xu was born and raised in China, where pursuing an aviation career is prestigious yet restrictive. At 16, he moved to the U.S. by himself to pursue an education. After relocating from New England to the Midwest for college, Glenn found the opportunity to learn to fly while completing his Master's degree in education.
His passion for aviation developed after earning his Private Pilot License (PPL), leading him to become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) while working full-time. Aspiring to understand the mental processes behind learning in aviation, Glenn is pursuing a PhD at UNC and joined Fredrickson Aviation to study, assist, appreciate, and grow within the field. Glenn is willing to help our students expand their knowledge about the aviation industry and prepare for their aviation pursuits.
Dan Fassler
Instructor
CFI
Dan Fassler's aviation journey took off in the winter of 2005 in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he spent four years earning his Private, Instrument, Commercial, and CFI ratings. Though it took time, the experiences and knowledge he gained from fellow pilots, instructors, and mechanics were invaluable. His passion for teaching led him to become a flight instructor in 2009, and he thoroughly enjoyed sharing his knowledge with new pilots.
In February 2024, Dan joined Fredrickson Aviation after meeting Brian and discussing an accelerated CFI program. The opportunity was a perfect fit, with a high demand for training and a team of experienced instructors. Dan is excited to be part of Fredrickson Aviation and continue his adventure in aviation.
In addition to his role at Fredrickson Aviation, Dan teaches aviation at Westridge High School in Kingsport, Tennessee. He has accumulated over 1,800 total flight hours, including 51 multi-engine hours, and holds a Commercial Multi-Engine Instrument rating with a First-Class Medical Certificate.