by Ivan Martinez, Director of Outreach and Wing Operations
Incoming Wing Leaders
Hawaii – Chad Holcomb
It’s my pleasure to welcome back Chad Holcomb as Wing Leader for the Hawaii Wing. Chad has previously served as the Hawaii Wing Leader in 2009 after moving to Hawaii from California. Chad began flying in the 90s, receiving flying lessons from his dad. After graduating from college, Chad obtained his pilot license. He always dreamed of flying for a living and decided to pursue becoming a commercial pilot about ten years ago. He began flying for AFW in 2007, and has flown several missions in his Cessna T210N. Chad now flies an Airbus 300-200 for Hawaiian Airlines. Chad says, “I have missed being able to contribute as part of the Angel Flight West team and look forward to jumping back in as the AFW Hawaii Wing Leader.” We’ve missed you too, Chad. Your plane.
Nevada – Bill Chastain
Please join me in welcoming Bill Chastain as AFW’s incoming Wing Leader for the Nevada Wing. Bill Chastain is the Founder and President of Metropolitan Area Networks. Previously, Bill was a consultant to the U.S. Department of Defense and was also Senior Program Manager of Ikos Systems. Bill has more than 30-years of experience directing and managing government and commercial business initiatives. Bill’s expertise is securing funding, implementing technical objectives, meeting financial targets and exceeding customer expectations. Bill received his private pilot license in 2011 and instrument rating in 2013. He is a Senior Member of the Civil Air Patrol and has been an AFW Command Pilot since 2013. He holds an Electrical Engineering degree from University of Florida and resides in Incline Village, Nevada.
Outgoing Wing Leader
Nevada – Tom Porta
Tom has accomplished much during his many years serving as Nevada Wing Leader. He has led several outreach efforts resulting in an increase of awareness among patients and medical facilities throughout Nevada. Most currently, he has established a partnership with the Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Nevada and supporting their “Travel for Treatment” program. Tom also led our booth at the Reno Air Races, onboarding new pilots and volunteers as well as sharing our mission with the aviation community. As a Command Pilot, Tom has flown 54 missions! It has been a personal joy and privilege to have worked side-by-side with Tom.
Thankfully, he will continue to remain involved in a supportive role on the Nevada Leadership Team. I hope you will join me in giving our heartfelt gratitude to Tom for sharing his leadership, talents, and passion with us for the past few years. Thank you, Tom.
