A Passionate Community Led by a Team of Professionals
Blue Line Aviation, a veteran-owned-and-operated business, was built on the belief that the best way to enjoy the miracle of flight is being a safe, confident pilot. By challenging our students with rigorous, comprehensive training programs, we are building a passionate community of expert aviators. Blue Line's team of dedicated professionals are equally passionate about doing it better than anyone else.
We are proud to welcome students and team members of all races, genders, nationalities, religions, sexual orientations, and political parties. A love for flying is what unites us all together. We invite you to join us in our passion for aviation.
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Trey Walters, CFI, ATP
Co-Founder & CEO
From early flight training at the age of 13 to holding an Airline Transport Pilot certification with multiple large aircraft type ratings, aviation has been a lifelong pursuit for Trey. His journey in the skies encompasses a wide spectrum of experience, including recreational, corporate, charter, and airline flying, with qualifications to pilot single and multi-engine airplanes, seaplanes, and helicopters. Grounded by his faith as a Christian, and his roles as a devoted husband and father of three boys, his background also includes honorable service as a decorated Iraq War Veteran and a former Raleigh Police Officer. He holds an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice from Vance-Granville Community College and a Bachelor's Degree in Aviation from Liberty University. He currently leverages his extensive aviation expertise in entrepreneurial ventures focused on flight training and aircraft maintenance, alongside interests in the restaurant industry, to successfully lead the Nation's premier flight school.
Kelsey Walters, MBA, SHRM-CP
Co-Founder & Vice President of Human Resources
Kelsey Walters is the Vice President of Human Resources at Blue Line Aviation, focusing on HR strategy and company culture. With over a decade of HR experience, she excels in talent acquisition and policy development, contributing to Blue Line’s growth from a single location to a multi-state operation. Walters has experience in various business roles, including virtual assistance, bookkeeping, and franchise ownership. She is proficient in HR and payroll systems like BambooHR, Paylocity, and ADP, and understands FAA hiring guidelines. Walters holds a Master of Business Administration in Human Resources from Liberty University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Strayer University. She is a member of SHRM, has recently achieved SHRM-CP, and is passionate about mental health and personal growth.
Robert Aliaga
Vice President of Flight Operations
Robert Aliaga leads Blue Line Aviation’s flight operations, bringing over two decades of aviation expertise. He possesses over 10,000 flight hours, including significant experience in multi-engine, turbine, and jet aircraft, holding multiple FAA type ratings. Aliaga oversees strategic planning and operational safety, leveraging his extensive experience from roles at Guidewell, SIMCOM, FlightSafety, and Gulfstream/Silver Airways. He managed aircraft maintenance, pilot training, and training program development in his previous positions. Robert holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology from Embry-Riddle, and is fluent in English and Spanish. His leadership focuses on continuous improvement and safety, driving Blue Line Aviation’s operational excellence.
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Mark Sokolowski, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Mark Sokolowski is the Chief Financial Officer at Blue Line Aviation, bringing over 25 years of experience in global financial and accounting operations. He is a specialist in turnaround situations and rapid-growth environments, having previously scaled a solar company’s revenue from $5 million to $100 million. At Blue Line, Mark partners with the CEO on strategic financing for aircraft, infrastructure, and student loan programs. His prior leadership roles include serving as President and CFO of Olympus Building Services and CFO for public companies like Flanders Corp. Mark is a Certified Public Accountant with a BS in Accounting from Central Michigan University. He excels in implementing ERP systems, debt management, and streamlining the monthly close process. Mark’s focus is on establishing accurate accounting systems that support the company’s 40% projected revenue growth.
Nathan Paris, MMA
Chief Marketing Officer
Nathan Paris serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at Blue Line Aviation, driving data-driven marketing strategies. With over 30 years of omnichannel marketing experience, he excels in delivering measurable results. Paris led marketing for Bojangles’ second largest franchisee, increasing sales significantly through strategic digital initiatives. He founded Avail Executives and Flat Top Brewing Company, demonstrating strong entrepreneurial skills. He also led national sales and marketing at ADDCO Manufacturing. Paris holds a Master of Management in Marketing Analytics from NC State and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and currently serves on the NC State University Poole College of Management Marketing Advisory Board.
Joe Stead
Chief Sales Officer
Joe Stead serves as Chief Sales Officer at Blue Line Aviation with more than 15 years of experience in revenue optimization and team mentorship. He has a proven record of navigating complex markets to expand market share and foster sustainable growth. Joe’s diverse background includes leading high-volume operations at Hertz and providing executive oversight for multi-million dollar units at Lowe’s. He also successfully managed an independent consultancy with a client retention rate exceeding 90%. Prior to his corporate career, Joe served in the United States Air Force, where he directed medical readiness programs and advised senior leadership. He is currently completing a degree in Business Administration and holds several specialized certifications. Joe is an expert in CRM systems, data-informed decision-making, and regulatory compliance. His leadership at Blue Line is dedicated to achieving executive excellence and building high-performance sales cultures.