Expert

Dave Smith

Chief of Instructional Design

Advanced Aircrew Academy 

Dave is the Chief of Instructional Design for Advanced Aircrew Academy. His main role is to ensure consistency and quality in AAA instructional modules in accordance with FAA, industry and user standards; his duties also include incorporating the latest research-based instructional methods. 

Dave holds an ATP with three type ratings and is a current CFI with more than 5,000 flight hours. He earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in Civil Engineering from Virginia Tech as well as a Master’s in Educational Technology from Webster University. 

Dave’s flying background includes a career in the US Air Force as a Captain, Instructor and Evaluator pilot, flying KC-135 tankers, T-38 supersonic trainers and RC-135 electronic reconnaissance aircraft across the United States and overseas. He also served in multiple military operational training and staff positions. Dave led a collegiate flight program at a midwestern university for seven years and was a Chief Instructor at a Part 141 flight school. His experience also includes a stint in Part 135/91k and more than 150 hours of C-182 flying for a missionary organization in remote Canada. Dave also served as a volunteer instructor pilot with Civil Air Patrol for more than 10 years. 

Dave resides in Kansas City with his wife, Melanie, where they enjoy golf and Chiefs football.