Stephen La Spisa
Carbondale
Summary
Dynamic aviation professional with experience at Southern Illinois University, excelling in flight operations and client service. Proficient in ForeFlight and scheduling, I effectively coordinated logistics and enhanced operational efficiency. Recognized for strong organizational skills and a commitment to safety, I thrive in fast-paced environments while delivering exceptional support.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Worker
Southern Illinois University Flight Operations
Carbondale
01.2025 - Current
- Manage flight and simulator schedules to coordinate between students, instructors, and aircraft availability
- Assist the Duty Officer by gathering and relaying weather information; provide input based on current conditions while final decisions are made by the Duty Officer
- Monitor aircraft inspection schedules to ensure compliance with maintenance and inspection requirements
- Support ramp operations, including ramping aircraft in and out and assisting with preflight logistics
- Respond to occasional on-site emergencies and follow established safety procedures
- Provide operational support by answering phones, communicating with pilots and staff, and maintaining efficient, safe daily operations
Aviation Ambassador
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale
01.2025 - Current
- Represent SIU Aviation at campus tours, events, and outreach activities
- Talk with prospective students and families about flight training and aviation programs
- Help organize tours, presentations, and recruitment events
- Work with staff and students to support aviation events and promote the program
- Serve as a positive representative of SIU Aviation to visitors and the community
To-Go Specialist
Chili’s
Carbondale
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Managed online and phone orders, organized packaging, and ensured accuracy for take-out customers.
- Communicated with kitchen and front-of-house staff to maintain fast and efficient service.
- Delivered professional and friendly customer interactions in a fast-paced environment.
Financial Intern
Vermillion Financial Advisors
South Barrington
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Assisted with client data updates, document repapering, and financial portfolio organization.
- Gained exposure to client communication, investment management, and compliance tracking.
Host / Food Runner / Carry-Outs
Brandt’s of Palatine
Palatine
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Greeted and seated guests, managed wait times, and coordinated front-of-house operations.
- Delivered food and beverages promptly while maintaining quality and presentation standards.
- Handled carry-out orders and assisted with guest service to ensure an efficient dining experience.
Cashier
Jewel-Osco
Palatine
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Operated cash registers, processed transactions, and provided friendly customer assistance.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of checkout areas.
- Developed reliability and teamwork skills in a customer-focused environment.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Aviation Management and Flight, Air Traffic Control
Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU)
Carbondale, IL12.2026
Skills
- ForeFlight
- Talon Flight Operations System
- Garmin G1000 Avionics
- AviationWeathergov
- 1800WXBrief
- Microsoft Excel
- Google Sheets
- Microsoft Office
- Google Workspace
- Scheduling
- Dispatch coordination
- Simulator management
- Business operations
- Finance
- Client service
- Organization
- Time management
- Professional communication
Affiliations
- ALPA ACE Club Member
- Aviation Management Society Member (AMS)
Websites
Achievements And Awards
- Dean’s List, Southern Illinois University Carbondale - Every semester to date
- Current GPA: 3.97 / 4.0
- Excellence Scholarship Recipient, Southern Illinois University Carbondale - Merit-based academic award recognizing outstanding academic performance
Technical And Professional Skills
ForeFlight, Talon Flight Operations System, Garmin G1000 Avionics, AviationWeather.gov (AWC), 1800WXBrief for flight planning and weather briefings, Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, other Microsoft Office and Google Workspace applications, Skilled in scheduling, dispatch coordination, and simulator management using aviation software platforms, Strong understanding of business operations, finance, and client service from professional experience; skilled in organization, time management, and professional communication
Ten Year Address History
Palatine, IL, 03/01/06 - Present, Carbondale, IL, 08/01/24 - Present
References
Available upon request.
Community Service
- Volunteer in the local community and participate in campus events.
- Assisted with SIU Aviation United Career Day to support visiting students and promote the aviation program.
- Participate in philanthropy events raising money for the Women’s Shelter at SIU.
- Help organize and set up SIU football tailgates to support school spirit and community involvement.
- Active member of the Dawg Pound student section and SIU Pickleball Club.
Professional Development And Training
- Completed King Schools Private Pilot Ground School Course - FAA Written Exam Preparation
- Completed Sheppard Air Instrument Rating Ground School Course - FAA Written Exam Preparation
- Participated in SIU Workplace Safety and Ethics Training for Student Employees
- Completed LinkedIn Learning: Taking Charge of Your Career - Course on career management and growth strategies
- Completed LinkedIn Learning: The Nine Best Ways to Invest in Yourself - Course focused on personal development and self-improvement
Flight Experience
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), 235 hours, Airplane Single Engine Land (ASEL), Instrument Rating (AF 206B), First Class, 01/01/22, 92 hrs, 144 hrs, 67 hrs, 43 hrs, 216 hrs, 17 hrs, 21 hrs, 4 hrs, 45
Timeline
Student Worker
Southern Illinois University Flight Operations
01.2025 - Current
Aviation Ambassador
Southern Illinois University
01.2025 - Current
Financial Intern
Vermillion Financial Advisors
06.2024 - 08.2024
To-Go Specialist
Chili’s
01.2024 - 01.2025
Host / Food Runner / Carry-Outs
Brandt’s of Palatine
01.2022 - 01.2024
Cashier
Jewel-Osco
01.2021 - 01.2022
Bachelor of Science - Aviation Management and Flight, Air Traffic Control
Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU)