Master Instructors is pleased to announce that Thomas Sando of Williston, North Dakota has received his Second Designation as a Master Aviation Educator, recognizing his dedication to excellence in classroom teaching. There are only two Master Aviation Educators with this designation, and Thomas is the only educator at the high school level.
Thomas is an aviation educator and flight instructor in Williston, North Dakota. He teaches Aviation Technology at Williston High School and the Williston Basin Career and Technical Education Center, where he has inspired students for the past five years through the AOPA STEM curriculum.
In addition to his classroom work, he serves as a Certified Flight Instructor at Overland Aviation, guiding new pilots at Williston Basin International Airport. Thomas earned his pilot certificate in 2013, followed by his Certified Flight Instructor rating in 2022. He holds Instrument Ground Instructor and Multi-Engine ratings and is an FAA Safety Team representative. He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a B.S. in Aviation Business Administration and a minor in Airport Management. His passion for aviation began when he first flew with his uncle over northern Idaho in a Titan Tornado. That early spark grew into a lifelong commitment to teaching, and finds the greatest reward in seeing his students’ excitement during their first discovery flights and later welcoming them as professional peers. Thomas believes deeply in the value of hard work, mentorship, and creating opportunities for the next generation of aviators.
Master Instructors is honored to announce that Doug Auclair of North Smithfield, Rhode Island, has earned his Fifth Master Flight Instructor Accreditation. of Air Ventures Flying School.Doug has been a professional pilot and instructor for over two decades. He is the founder and Chief Flight Instructor of Air Ventures Flying School and is also owner of Newport Aviation. His leadership has helped guide hundreds of students to successful flight tests, careers in aviation, and a deeper love for flight. Doug’s continued achievement places him among an elite group of aviation educators dedicated not only to advancing their own skills, but to elevating the standards of flight training across the industry.
Doug’s achievement reflects his steadfast belief that flight instructors should be lifelong learners, always growing in order to be as impactful and effective as possible. “I’m incredibly honored to earn this designation for the fifth time,” Doug said. “It’s not just about staying current—it’s about leading by example, giving our students the very best, and shaping the future of aviation one pilot at a time.” Please join us in congratulating Doug on this well-earned achievement!