GCFA Team

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

The backbone of our pilot training program is our exceptional team of instructors. Each member is a highly experienced pilot who brings a wealth of real-world flying knowledge into the classroom and cockpit. They are dedicated not just to teaching you to fly, but to instilling the highest standards of safety, discipline, and aeronautical decision-making. We've assembled this team to ensure you receive the most thorough and effective training available, preparing you for success in any aviation career.

Meet The Team

Eric Bishop

Chief Pilot

Eric Bishop serves as Chief Pilot at Grove City Flight Academy, bringing decades of distinguished military and civilian aviation experience to the role. A U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force-trained pilot, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the USAF after flying a wide range of military aircraft including the OH-58, UH-1, AH-1F, RC-12, C-12, and C-130. His extensive flight credentials include multiple type ratings such as the BE-400, MU-300, C500, C525S, and C-650, reflecting his versatility across both rotary and fixed-wing platforms. With a deep commitment to aviation excellence and mentorship, Eric now leads the next generation of pilots with the same precision and professionalism that defined his military career.

Hunter Nitzsky

CFI, Assistant Chief Pilot

Hunter trained at Skyborne Airline Academy in Vero Beach, Florida, and American Winds in Akron, Ohio. He is an accomplished Certified Flight Instructor who brings a personal touch to the instructional experience. He has extensive experience in our Piper training aircraft and serves as a SIC on the Cessna Citation. Hunter has been instrumental in shaping the training program at Grove City Flight Academy.

Alex Chess

CFI

Alex grew up just a few miles from the airport and completed his flight training and college studies at the University of Dubuque, Iowa. He is an avid outdoorsman. In addition to flight instruction, Alex works as a pilot conducting aerial surveys of pipelines across the region.

Luke Woodard

CFI, CFII, AGI – Chief Pilot, Instrument Program

Luke is an accomplished aviation professional and educator with extensive experience as a pilot and flight instructor. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from the University of Southern Illinois, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and a Professional Pilot associate’s degree from the Community College of Beaver County, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. With over 1,700 flight hours, including 445 multi-engine hours and 839 hours of dual instruction given, Luke has served as a flight instructor at multiple organizations with exceptional safety standards. He also has experience as CE-560XL Pilot operating under Part 135 and 91. His achievements include CFI, CFII, Advanced Ground Instructor, and a Gold Seal CFI Certificate. Luke is committed to excellence, safety, and personal development in all his endeavors.

Danny Holtgraver

GCFA Instructor - CFI