Paragon Flight Training’s co-owner and chief flight instructor Jeffrey Wolf is the 2021-2022 recipient of the Excellence in Pilot Training Award presented by the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). Since 1987, the association has awarded an individual or organization who has made outstanding contributions in the field of pilot training — encompassing safety, professionalism, leadership, and excellence.

In his role as chief instructor, Wolf directs all flight training conducted at Paragon Flight Training —attaining the required regulatory approvals — and upholds the critical standardization of flight instructors and training courses as head of Paragon’s programs in FM-approved flight training. Wolf joined Paragon as a certified flight instructor in 2009, was promoted to chief instructor later that year, and became a co-owner in 2010.  

“He sets the bar high for flight training and lives up to Paragon Flight’s steadfast commitment to developing top-performing pilot leaders with strong moral character and work ethic,” said Paragon Flight Training President and Co-Owner Christopher Schoensee. “Jeff is a true role model for future pilots working to succeed in the aviation industry.”

With a lifelong passion for aviation, Wolf started his flight training at Page Field when he was 16 and received his private pilot certificate at age 18, prior to attending Jacksonville University—where he was very involved in the school’s aviation program, contracted through Delta Connection Academy.  While a student, Wolf was hired by the Academy as a flight instructor to train both private and instrument students.  He received his B.S. in Aviation Management and Flight Operations and was subsequently hired by Comair as a first officer flying a regional jet before joining Paragon Flight Training.

Wolf has also been active in the aviation community as a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Flight Training Board and Jacksonville University’s Aviation Advisory Board.

Wolf will be honored at a luncheon celebrating all of NATA’s Industry Excellence Award winners on 3 November, concurrent with the association’s Aviation Business Conference in Miami, Florida.