Jim Kwasek – Chief Pilot

Jim Kwasek is a seasoned aviation professional and flight instructor with over three decades of experience in flight training and aviation education. His journey in aviation began in 1988 when, as a junior in high school, he earned his Private Pilot Certificate before enrolling at Southern Illinois University (SIU) to further his aviation education.

While attending SIU, Jim rapidly advanced his aviation credentials, earning his Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, and Flight Instructor Rating. His dedication to aviation education was evident early on, as he instructed flight students at the university during his junior and senior years while also teaching a specialized course on the DC-10 aircraft within the maintenance program. In addition to flight instruction, Jim flew charter operations for the university on its twin-engine aircraft, gaining valuable real-world experience in professional aviation.

Jim’s leadership in aviation extended beyond the cockpit. He served as President of the Aviation Management Society at SIU, further developing his expertise in aviation operations and management. He also participated in United Airlines’ internship program in the DC-10 training department, gaining insight into airline operations and high-level flight training. During this time, he continued to enhance his qualifications, earning his Instrument Instructor (CFII), Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), and Flight Engineer Rating.

After college, Jim took on the challenge of building a flight school from the ground up, driven by his passion for training aspiring pilots. Through his leadership and vision, the school has grown into the largest flight school in the Chicago area, specializing in training beginner pilots. His commitment to high-quality instruction and structured training programs has helped launch countless aviation careers, making him a respected figure in the flight training industry.

With a lifelong dedication to aviation education, Jim continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of pilots, ensuring they develop the skills, knowledge, and professionalism required for success in the industry.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI, CFII, MEI, AGI, IGI, Flight Engineer Turbojet

Dave Klopfleisch – Safety Officer

Dave started flying in 1966 at Roselle Airport, now called Schaumburg Airport in Schaumburg, IL. He served in the Navy from 1968-1974, with his last duty station at Miramar, CA. In the Navy, Dave flew the TA-4, single-engine attack jet. Afterward, Dave worked for various corporate flight departments and served as the Safety Officer at the NAS Glenview Flying Club from 1993-1996. Dave has worked at Chicago Executive Flight School since 2005. 

Awarded the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in 2022.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI, MEI, ATP, Part 121 Flight Dispatcher, current Safety Officer at Chicago Executive Flight School

Adrian Rogers – Stage Check Airman

I started flying in Newton KS in 2017 at Hesston College where I also got my Associate degree in aviation. My CFI career started in 2022 in Austin TX where I grew to love flight instructing and teaching ground school. I’m currently finishing my bachelors degree in aviation and enrolled to work on my masters degree next year at Liberty University. I plan on getting my doctorate degree in aviation from there as well. My passion for aviation started while watching the local Air Force pilots fly around my home town.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI, CFII, and MEI

Scott Kuhfeldt – VP of Operations

Scott’s background includes a BS in Management and a Minor in Human Resources from Northern Illinois University. With over 30 years of leadership in the Hospitality/Entertainment industry, his expertise lies in Operations Management. Scott’s creative, energetic, and hands-on approach played a key role in employee development, sales growth, and operational streamlining across various large companies.

Before joining the Chicago Executive Flight School, Scott served as a Project Manager at Potawatomi Casino Hotel, overseeing the launch of four distinct restaurants. His contributions included enhancing restaurant operations, implementing training plans, and formulating strategic initiatives to maximize profitability in the F&B Department. Managing a diverse team of 200 plus employees showcased his exceptional leadership skills, earning him a distinguished reputation in the industry.

In his leisure time, Scott values family moments and also shares his passion for TaeKwon-Do by teaching it to his daughter.

Raphael Schroepfer

I grew up on a small farm next to a grass airstrip near Pecatonica, IL. As a kid, I kept busy with homeschooling and farm chores, but always found the time to watch low flying airplanes. Being around aviation so much, it became my passion, and I soloed at 16. Since then, my flying adventures have taken me far and wide. I passed my Private pilots checkride at Cottonwood Airport in Rockford. In 2023, I trained for the instrument, commercial and CFI certificates at DuPage Airport. During my training, I flew on long cross-countries alI over the US, ranging from Minneapolis to Tampa. I started working as a CFI at DuPage, and then joined CEFS in December 2024. I enjoy, farming, football, reading, performing on the piano, karate, and board games, to name a few things. Despite the myriad of activities that I take pleasure in, you will always find me gazing skyward.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI

Ryan Horvath

I started flying in Newton KS in 2017 at Hesston College where I also got my Associate degree in aviation. My CFI career started in 2022 in Austin TX where I grew to love flight instructing and teaching ground school. I’m currently finishing my bachelors degree in aviation and enrolled to work on my masters degree next year at Liberty University. I plan on getting my doctorate degree in aviation from there as well. My passion for aviation started while watching the local Air Force pilots fly around my home town.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI, CFII, and MEI

Jakob Kjeldbjerg

Jakob started his own flight journey back in 2018 in Quincy, Illinois. After attending the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, FL, he now holds his B.S. in Aeronautical Science with Flight. He’s excited to be teaching back in his native northern Chicago suburbs, and his favorite part about teaching is the fulfillment that comes from helping another achieve their goals.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI

Zachary Nystrom

Zach started flying at the age of 9, at the age of 14 he started flying gliders eventually soloing. A former Civil Air Patrol Cadet, Zach was one of few selected nation wide to take part in Johnson Flight Academy, eventually graduating from the program by soloing a Cessna 172. Being accepted into American Airlines Cadet Academy, Zach would continue his flight training in Fort Lauderdale.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI, CFII

Thomas McNeill

My love for flying was inspired by my uncle, who was an F-14 Tomcat pilot, sparking my fascination with aviation from an early age. I earned my degree in Political Science from the University of Kansas before pursuing my true passion for flying. My journey began in DuPage, Illinois, where I obtained my Private Pilot License, and I later completed my training in Texas, earning my CFI, CFII, and MEI certifications. With a strong commitment to safety and student success, I take pride in providing quality instruction and guiding students as they develop the skills needed for a successful career in aviation.

Flight Qualifications:  CFI, CFII, and MEI

Dan Fox

Dan comes to us Orange County, CA, where he’s been flying since 2021. He’s trained extensively in the G1000 and has flown everywhere from SNA Francisco to Sedona and the Geand Canyon (and everywhere in between)! His hobbies outside of aviation include surfing, hiking, snowboarding, and trail running. 

Flight Qualifications: CFI