About Anders
Anders’ interest in aviation was only natural: growing up in central Wisconsin less than two hours from Oshkosh, he attended the EAA AirVenture fly-in multiple times with his father, a certificated aircraft mechanic and private pilot. After high-school, where the interest turned into career aspirations, Anders moved to Washington state to begin his aviation training. He received his FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic certification and Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology from Spokane Community College in 2005. He continued his education, earning his Commercial Pilot certification (Airplane Single-Engine Land) with an Instrument rating, as well as an Advanced Ground Instructor Certificate in 2007, and ultimately received a Bachelor of Science in Mission Aviation Technology from Moody Aviation in 2008. During the last several years of school, Anders gained some valuable experience assisting in the restoration of an antique mail-carrier biplane (the Boeing 40C).
Following graduation, Anders moved to the Portland area, where he began work with Hillsboro Aviation (now Hillsboro Aero Academy). While at Hillsboro, Anders performed a number of different roles, including line maintenance, inspections, Robinson helicopter overhaul, and Troutdale Lead Technician. In 2011, Anders received his Inspection Authorization (IA). During this time, Anders also volunteered significant amounts of time with international students and refugees, both in the community and through a local non-profit.
In 2012 Anders and his wife made the decision to move to Kabul, Afghanistan, where he served as the Director of Projects at a non-profit aid and development organization. After returning in late 2013, Anders took a TESOL Certificate course. Due to deteriorating security conditions in Kabul, he and his wife made the difficult decision to remain in the States and begin looking for a job locally.
Anders aviation background and affinity for the Pacific Northwest led him to PCC, which seemed like a natural fit for his aviation experience, love of teaching, and passion for helping people develop their potential. He began teaching courses Fall term 2014.