Our Instructors
Shawn Pratt, ATP - CFI, CFII, MEI, CSIP - Chief Flight Instructor
My passion for commercial aviation was ignited while growing up in Alaska. As a teenager, I vividly remember flying out of Sitka to Petersburg, AK in a Boeing 727 where we threaded the mountain ranges in a series of steep banks and landed on a gravel runway! (Took me and the flight attendant about 5 minutes to help the guy next to me let go of his seat!)
I pursued more of a "pay as you go" approach to my flight training, which started during my 10 years of service in the U.S. Navy as an Air Intercept Controller. After leaving the military to focus on a flying career, I spent an additional 6 years working to fund my training as a Certified Flight Instructor. Finally, in 2001, I accepted a job at Northwest Aviation College, and my wife and I moved to the Pacific Northwest before coming to Safety in Motion Flight Center in 2013.
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Since starting my aviation career in 2001, I have weathered the events of 9/11, the 2008 financial downturn, and the pandemic's effects on the aviation industry.
Why do I do this? Over the years I have trained and helped literally hundreds of pilots achieve their dreams of becoming pilots, professional or otherwise. I continue to learn from each of them and have become a stronger pilot due to those interactions. For me, the lure of the airlines wasn't as strong. Having toured much of the country as a musician and seen much of the world during my naval career, I opted for a more stable schedule and lifestyle to focus on raising my family. Little did I know I would be raising a large secondary aviation family at the same time, and I couldn't be prouder of watching both flourish and succeed!
In addition to instructing, I work as a Charter and Corporate pilot as well, which is a blast and continues to sharpen my pilot skills. Still, there is no greater professional reward than working as a Certified Flight Instructor and helping people achieve their dreams of becoming aviators!
Puyallup (KPLU) Location
Robert "Bo" Demario - CFI, CFII, MEI - Flight Instructor, Tailwheel
When I was 15 I had my first flight lesson at an aviation summer camp, and I immediately knew I wanted to be a pilot. I continued to pursue flying during high school, and ultimately decided to attend college where that first summer camp was held at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL. While there, I worked as a flight instructor to build my experience before moving on to the airlines. I currently fly the 737 for Delta Air Lines.
My favorite part of aviation is sharing the experiences and lessons I’ve learned over the course of my aviation career with other aspiring pilots.
When I’m not flying, I enjoy fly fishing, hiking and spending time with my wife and our 11 month old baby.
Eric West - CFI, CFII, MEI - Flight Instructor
I was inspired to get into aviation because of the unique technical perspective it offers into seeing the world, and also because the people in the aviation community are some of the most fun-loving, sharing, and tight-knit groups of any I have experienced. I love that aviation requires you to take notice of many factors in the world around you. Instead of passively looking at things, it makes you examine things with intention, like the weather. There really is nothing like having a flight plan you’ve prepared work out exactly the way you planned. Managing a fast-flying machine, being able to properly communicate, and learning to harness the environment gives you a sense of accomplishment like no other.
Eric has been teaching pilots for 16 years. A civilian and former military instructor pilot, Eric brings a unique perspective to flight instruction that his students enjoy. Eric holds his ATP, CFI, CFII, and MEI, and is our only dual-rated instructor that can teach in airplanes and helicopters. Eric enjoys teaching Instrument students due to the technical prowess and precision it requires. When he isn't teaching Eric can be found coaching football, lifting weights, or out fishing.
John Rinaldi - AGI - Flight Instructor
I always had a passion for aviation but for some reason never saw it as an obtainable career. My real journey into aviation started with a free flight where I learned to hang glide on the California coast. Then after working in IT for 8 years I began to realize I didn't want to spend the rest of my working years in a cubicle. I took the leap in 2019 where I began training full time to become a CFI. Flying to me is the ultimate experience whether powered or free flight; it’s challenging, rewarding, and amazing seeing the earth from a unique perspective. I also have a passion for teaching and love to be in a position to pass on the passion and experience to new pilots. I’m not sure what my end goal is yet in aviation but for now I’m taking it one day at a time and enjoying my time instructing. Aside from aviation, I enjoy playing games on my PC and spending time with my family, including my wife and two-year-old daughter.
Hayden Keith - ACFI, CFII, AGI, IGI, sUAS - Flight Instructor
At the age of 16, I took my first intro flight in the Midwest. At the time, I didn’t imagine pursuing an aviation career. When I moved to Puyallup with my family on my 18th birthday, I continued to work as a near-master ASE mechanic across from Thun Field. Until one day I woke up dreaming of being the one across the road at Thun—the one flying those airplanes. That day I signed up to train for an associate’s degree as a pilot, which I have since completed.
Aviation is filled with amazing people and communities. I have met many lifelong friends in such a short amount of time, and plan to meet many more! My goal is to obtain as many certifications and endorsements—and fly as many aircraft—as possible. On top of that, I would like to fly for the airlines and see the country.
Devereaux/Dev Buraczyk- CFII - Flight Instructor
Devereaux or Dev, is a second-generation pilot. She has her BS in Aeronautics from Liberty University and instructed in Southern California prior to joining the Safety in Motion team. She began flying after serving 6 years in the United States Air Force as a Security Forces law enforcement officer. She’s traveled to S. Korea, Afghanistan, and Qatar. She originally grew up in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, where she competed in numerous Tae Kwon Do competitions earning her Black Belt. Dev has become invested in the challenges faced since starting her aviation career and is a firm believer in, “getting comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
Alan Pham - CFII - Flight Instructor
I have always wanted to travel the world and what better way to do so than being a pilot! I was inspired to gear myself toward aviation when I attended Alaska Airlines Day for the first time. Being in the environment and landing a 737 in the simulator, I knew this was what I wanted to do. Once I graduated high school I moved to Florida to complete my flight training in 2020. It was a great learning experience both in aviation and personal growth. I returned to the PNW in 2022 to be with my parents and younger brother. As much as I liked the sunshine of Florida, nothing beats seeing Mt. Rainier on a clear day!
Shawn Kenyon - CFII - Flight Instructor
I got into flying after nine years in the military. Six of which I spent jumping out of planes and repelling out of helicopters. I was initially not sure what I wanted to do when I got out of the military. The one thing I knew I didn’t want to do was jump out of planes anymore. Causing me to realize that if I fly the planes I won’t have to jump out of them. This simple concept is what got me on the route of learning to fly and a career in aviation.
Talon Kohler - CFII - Flight Instructor
Talon grew up in the Pacific Northwest and began flight training in high school. He is a first-generation aviator who was inspired to fly by former Seahawk Jimmy Graham who flew his plane into practice every day. Talon obtained his Bachelor of Aeronautical Science through Green River College and began instructing with Safety in Motion in November of 2022. In his free time, Talon enjoys hiking, shooting, biking, and golfing.
Lauren Moorhead – CFI – Flight Instructor
If you had told me in my early 20s, I was going to be a pilot one day, I would have laughed in your face and said, "Yeah right, no way.” I grew up in the 90s when fewer women were pilots, and people suggested I should become a flight attendant. After I graduated college in 2013, I went to work as a graphic designer, which only lasted 2.5 years before I found myself bored and stuck behind a desk Monday through Friday. With little idea of what I wanted to do next, I was yet again told to become a flight attendant. I figured why not; I would love to travel and get paid to do so. In October of 2015, I began training with Mesa Airlines, and it was here that I caught the flying bug. After many delays and 1 cancellation later, I got the opportunity to sit up front in the spare flight deck jumpseat for a ferry flight back to IAD airport. Shortly after takeoff the autopilot failed, and the pilots had to hand fly. I was completely enamored with everything going on and knew at that moment I was meant to fly the plane, not pour sodas in the back. And the rest is history. Flying is the most challenging yet rewarding thing I have ever done, and I look forward to sharing that passion with future aviators. Blue Skies y'all.
Michael Franklin – CFI – Flight Instructor
In March 2022 Mike retired from the Army as a first sergeant after 22 years of service. During his career in Army Aviation, he had the pleasure of working as a Blackhawk helicopter mechanic/crew chief. Before retiring Mike already knew where his second career was taking him, and it would be as a professional pilot in one capacity or another. Flying planes professionally has been a dream come true for Mike with each day bringing new experiences and rewards. The flight instructors and students that attend Safety In Motion Flight Center are exceptional, and to witness everyone working together to achieve their individual goals is an amazing sight.
Olympia (KOLM) Location
Judson "Jud" Kelley - CFI, CFII, MEI - Assistant Chief Flight Instructor
Jud is a 25-year Air Force veteran with over 2,000 hours in A-7s, A-37s, & F-16s and combat tours in Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. After retiring from the Air Force, he founded an AFJROTC program in 2006 at Bethel High School in Spanaway. After retiring from teaching he continued to pursue his aviation passions in flight and kit planes. He is currently building an RV-6A, flying a Piper Tomahawk and working part time at Safety In Motion. Since he was young, he wanted to be an astronaut. He attended the Air Force Academy to pursue that dream, and through his experience there, realized that being a fighter pilot was the best thing he could do (after discovering he didn't like 0 G). The thing he loves about aviation is the freedom to fly and travel without being tied to an airline schedule. Flying to airport restaurants affords a unique get away for himself and his wife. Flying to Pullman in 3 hours instead of driving for 6 was great when his kids were attending WSU. He also really enjoys passing on his aviation experience and knowledge to the next generation. Jud is a CFII/MEI with over 3,000 flight hours. He’s working on his IGI and AGI. When he’s not teaching at SIM Flight Center, he can be found in his hangar at Hoskins Field, putzing around the house, or in the kitchen as his wife’s favorite cook.
Mark Leingang - ATP - CFI, CFII, MEI, sUAS, FE Turbojet - Flight Instructor
Mark has over 3,600 flight hours and holds ratings of single and multi-engine airplane ATP, CFI, CFII, Remote Pilot (sUAS), and Flight Engineer Turbojet. He has flown 21 different aircraft and holds type ratings on the Boeing B-707/720 and the B-727.
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After graduating in 1982 with an engineering degree from Saint Martin’s College, he entered the Air Force. Upon completion of Pilot Training, he flew the KC-135Q refueling the SR-71 spy planes in the European and Pacific theaters. Later, he flew the KC-135R at Malmstrom AFB, Montana. After active duty, he joined the Washington Air National Guard flying the KC-135E while flying at American Airlines.
He then transferred to the 111th ASOC, Camp Murray, becoming Director of Operations and Vice Commander. In 2003, with the 116th ASOS, he became a terminal air controller, was activated, and deployed to Iraq as Commander of the 116th EASOS, 332 AEW, Balad AB. Upon return, he became Director of Aerospace Operations, HQ Washington Air National Guard serving on the Washington State Joint Staff. After 28½ years of military service, he retired in 2011.
Mark served on the board of directors of the Center “O” Flying Club, owns a Cessna 170, a Cessna 172, and flies for pleasure. He is building a Sonex, and enjoys fly-ins and camping under the wing. He and Eileen, his wife of 39 years, skipper a 36-foot Trawler and are active with the Olympia Yacht Club.
Christian Salyers – CFI – Flight Instructor
My passion for aviation didn’t come until much later in life, but its driving factor started at a very young age. While I didn’t grow up around airplane enthusiasts, former fighter pilots, or aerodynamicists, personal growth and discovery were important components of my upbringing. A desire to learn is perhaps one of the most important skill sets that drives my growth and success as a person, a pilot, and an instructor. Growing up in a small Ohio town, there was little to do but explore the neighborhood. While that small town once seemed large, I quickly realized I had reached its borders and at 17 chose to move to the west coast. Only my 3rd time on a plane, flying into the Pacific Northwest presented a view of the world that took my breath away. After taking an internship that led to a job, I diligently worked in the business field where I grew from a receptionist to managing a purchasing department for a Senior Housing company. After 10 years in business, I decided to return to my roots and explore my surroundings more literally. At 27 I quit my job and funded my own flight training through the Olympia location of Safety In Motion Flight Center. After a little over two years, I received my CFI and I am now working at the very place where it all started. My passion for learning is stronger than ever and my desire to share that passion with others is driven by a belief that learning is perhaps the most exhilarating experience we can have as humans.
Daniel McNinch – CFI: Olympia
For as long as I can remember, I have been that kid that, no matter what, I would drop everything I was doing to stop and look at an airplane that was flying overhead. I lost sight of that for a while as I grew up, and ended up in the Marine Corps. As I was getting out and needing to look at what to do with my life, I remembered that kid and decided to try my hand at flying. I started out flying helicopters, but when I moved back to Washington, I decided to make the switch to fixed wing. Once I had my intro flight, I instantly knew what I wanted to do, and have been pursuing that dream ever since.
John Frazier – Commercial Pilot, Instrument Airplane, SEL, MEL, CFI, CFII – Instructor
I was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. After graduating from the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, I served in the US Air Force for over 26 years, specializing in aircraft maintenance management and life-cycle product support. After retiring in 2020, my wife of over 24 years suggested I finish getting the private pilot certificate that I had been tinkering with during my busy time on active duty. Since I’m a great husband, I listened to her, started flying, and earned my private pilot certificate in 2021. The rest, as they say, is history. I believe that many people have the aptitude to be great pilots once they commit to it. My commitment as a flight instructor is to help my clients reach their aviation goals in the safest, and most efficient manner possible. I am grateful for having partnered with Safety in Motion Flight Center, as the company’s values and commitment to clients align perfectly with my values. I look forward to earning your trust as a flight instructor—let’s fly!
Jesy Chartrey – CFI – Instructor
I discovered the world of aviation when I was 21 and fell in love with it immediately on my first flight, and knew I wanted to pursue it as a career from that moment on. I love the sense of freedom when flying and discovering the world from above. I hold my CFI-I and particularly love flying instruments.
Matthew Knierim – CFI, CFII, MEI-Check Instructor
I grew up in an aviation family, but my interest began with Boy Scouts. During the annual aviation day, run by Alaska Airlines, we were able to fly a 737 simulator that the pilots used for training and tour other aircraft. We also learned the basics of aviation. After the Boy Scouts, I started volunteering there. I got my private here at Safety in Motion Flight Center to see whether I wanted to make it a career or just a hobby. After completing my private, I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. I decided to dive in 100 percent and get the rest of the licenses. I went to a flight school in Sacramento, CA to get it done. I wanted my first instructor position to be where I got my first license, here at Safety in Motion. My hobbies outside of flying involve tennis, gaming, and traveling.
Jessica Wallingford – Line Service Technician
I’ve been a student at Safety in Motion since 2022. I started flying when I was 12 years old after my family moved near Hoskins Field and made friends with one of the pilots there. In college, I was a biology major with a music minor but decided after my associate degree that life is too short to wait to start flying again. Currently, I am working on the Instrument/Commercial course with plans to be a CFI at the Olympia location at Safety In Motion Flight Center. When I can’t fly, I’ll settle for hiking, snowshoeing, fishing/clam digging, practicing viola/violin/bass, and spending time with my siblings.