Saul B. Thompson
Saul B. Thompson is the founder of Aviation Advisor, Inc. In his role as President, he draws on 3 decades of business and military aviation expertise to deliver exceptional programs, service levels and experiences to all aircraft management, aircraft charter and consulting clients. Saul served in the U.S. military where he became a test pilot for various types of military aircraft including experimental models. During his service, Saul achieved both advanced aircraft and special operations qualifications and directed Joint Service Special operations programs.
Saul has been involved internationally in aircraft operations and leasing since leaving the military. He also directed one of the largest diversified aviation services companies in the Midwest. The operation consisted of 115 associates, held FAA Part 135 and Part 91 aircraft management certifications, operated 18 turbine powered aircraft ranging from a Cessna Citation© light jet to a Falcon 900© wide-body executive jet and featured a Part 145 repair station specializing in helicopters and business jet aircraft. As an architect in building this operation, Saul commanded a multi-million dollar budget, purchased and integrated two FBO’s, conducted strategic business acquisitions and developed airport real estate.
In 2000, Saul took the best practices developed over 3 decades in aviation and forged a new aircraft management, executive charter and consulting company known as Aviation Advisor, Inc. Today, Saul leads what has become the industry standard for private aviation management and services. Saul is a graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University with a B.S. in Professional Aeronautics. Saul has completed numerous specialized training courses both in the military and civilian sectors. He is type rated in multiple aircraft and helicopters and is also seaplane rated.
Brad Frederking
Brad Frederking serves as the Director of Maintenance for Aviation Advisor, Inc’s Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. His knowledge and experience have positioned him as a critical resource for the organization. In his role as the Director of Maintenance, Brad is responsible for the oversight and coordination of all aircraft maintenance related activities. He draws on extensive experience in piston, turbine and jet fleet maintenance management along with avionics modification and repair.
Brad served in the US Navy where he was a technician on various military aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet. He holds an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification and Inspection Authorization (IA).
Jason Shook
Vice President - Business Development
Jason’s objectives at Aviation Advisor revolve around corporate growth, relationship management and new business development. Jason has a diverse background in the aviation industry which began after earning a B.S. in Aviation Technology from Purdue University. He then focused on an aviation insurance career involving risk management and insurance placement for many sectors to include airlines, municipalities, product manufacturers, fortune 500 organizations and high net worth individuals.
From managing the aviation insurance practice for a large Chicago–based financial services firm, Jason followed his passion to become involved with aircraft from an operational perspective. He then became responsible for all aspects of business development for a national provider of air transportation services, managing in excess of (30) aircraft. Jason’s responsibilities include client management, aircraft procurement/consulting and development of third party charter programs. Jason strongly believes in the importance of service delivery and growth of client relationships.
TJ Chase
Regional Director - Business Development
TJ is an industry veteran focused on the value of creating long term relationships by providing solutions through listening, followed by delivery. TJ’s experiences of directing a full service Part 135 charter organization, participating in client account management and creating value in an organization are attributes welcomed by Aviation Advisor. He understands the complexity of aircraft operations and places focus on the clear communication clients deserve when partnering with an organization such as Aviation Advisor.
TJ graduated from the University of Dubuque with a B.S. degree in Aviation Management, and currently holds a private pilot license.
Sean Harrigan
Flight Operations Manager
As Flight Operations Manager, Sean is responsible for the coordination of interdepartmental communication among flight operations, maintenance, business development and accounting. In addition to internal communication, Sean assists in the delivery of customer service by providing solutions and processing required details for customers and colleagues. Charter management, aircraft/crew coordination and vendor relations are also important facets of Sean’s role as Flight Operations Manager.
Sean graduated with a B.S. in Business Finance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and holds a Private Pilot, Instrument, and Commercial Pilot ratings.
Zenaida Padilla
Zenaida is responsible for all billing and accounting operations at Aviation Advisor. Her direct involvement in the daily accounting function allows for an expedited invoice process, along with a completely transparent approach to customer service. Zenaida draws on an extensive accounting and account management background, and provides clients and owners with customized reporting solutions.
Prior to joining Aviation Advisor, Zenaida served in an accounting role for a large private aviation company in the Midwest.
