Introducing Staff, Stringers, Videographers, And People Who Make It All Work

Anyone who's ever been to Oshkosh knows that there are hundreds of events and activities as well as tens of thousands of people that descend (some quite literally) on Wittman Regional Airport in mid-summer. While we have a very hard-working and dedicated staff, ANN could not provide you with the extensive information we do without the help of some equally ... some might say more ... dedicated volunteers who give a week of their time to make sure you have the best possible coverage of the show. As we lead up to this year's edition of AirVenture, we'll be introducing you to the people that make all of that possible.

John Ylinen: Stringer

John is returning as one of our most valued stringers for his 6th year. He is a retired Army Officer with service as an Artillery Officer with duty as a Pershing Missileman and cannon artillery and an automation officer. He served tours of Duty in Germany and several post around the United States. His last assignment was in the Pentagon with the Headquarters, Department of the Army.

After leaving the Army, John worked for Microsoft in their Federal Consulting Services for 12 years supporting many Federal agencies with their Microsoft software and services. John started his flying career by soloing on this 16th Birthday and getting his Private license on his 17th. He learned at the Fort Bliss, Biggs Field Flying Club. While in High school and College, John worked as an avionics installer for the Piper Dealer and FBO at the El Paso International Airport named Southwest Air rangers.

John had a 30 year gap in flying until he took a demo flight in a Cirrus Design SR22. After that flight he had to come back into flying and signed up with AirShare Elite to have a fractional ownership and started flying again. He completed his instrument rating in March of 2005. He is a member of AOPA, EAA, and the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association. John is now semi-retired and passionate about flying and the freedom to fly.

FMI: www.aero-news.net