Warwick graduate now flying helicopters for NYC-based operator
WARWICK Matthew Schenk, a 2008 Warwick Valley High School graduate, recently graduated cum laude with a bachelors degree in professional aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeranautical University.
Embry Riddle Aeranautical University, located in the state of Florida, is recognized as the leading American university for those pursuing a career in aviation. A common career path for Embry Riddle graduates is the pursuit of a flying career with an airline, or careers in the engineering field.
Schenk completed the course of study, while simultaneously earning commercial, instrument and instructor ratings in rotary wing aircraft – helicopters. During his final year of study he worked as a flight instructor at Mauna Loa Helicopters, instructing primary and advanced students in Honolulu, Hawaii. While at Mauna Loa Helicopters, he earned the Gold Seal Flight instructor certificate, which is recognition for the high success rate of his student trainees.
Schenk has since left Mauna Loa for a position with Liberty Helicopters in New York City. Liberty Helicopters is the largest sightseeing operator in Manhattan and also offers charter service in the metropolitan area.
As a pilot with Liberty Helicopters, Schenk flies tours from the Wall St. heliport that include views of the statue of Liberty, Varazzano bridge, the Hudson river corridor, and Yankee Stadium. He acts as both the pilot, and tour guide for tourists from around the world.
Schenks flying experience includes introductory training in Prescott, Az., then primary training in Slate Hill and White Plains, extensive training and experience including extended over-water and high altitude flights in Hawaii and now a home flying Turbine powered Eurocopter EC130s with Liberty Helicopters.