Meet our Instructors

  • A woman with shoulder-length dark hair, smiling, wearing a navy blue long sleeve shirt, earrings, and jewelry, standing outdoors near a brick wall with a lantern and greenery in the background.

    Mimi Bull

    Fledglings Lead Instructor North Gate

    Mimi Bull has spent the past 21 years serving children and their families as a dedicated classroom teacher. Her experience spans preschool through third grade, and she has taught in private, charter, and public schools. Throughout her career, Mimi has remained committed to nurturing young learners and inspiring a lifelong love of learning in every classroom she enters.

    Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Mimi moved to Colorado Springs in 2007 and has proudly called it home ever since. She and her husband, Jack, have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of two adult children—John, 26, who lives in Phoenix, and Rachel, 24, who resides in Denver.

     When she’s not teaching, Mimi enjoys hiking Colorado’s scenic trails, getting lost in a good book, and taking long walks with her goldendoodle, Murphy.

  • A woman with blond hair and a black polo shirt standing cross-armed in front of an airplane inside a hangar.

    Laura Niichel

    Certified Flight Instructor

    I began my aviation journey in 2019 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where my passion for flight truly took off (haha, get it?)! Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to growing as a pilot and sharing my love for aviation with others. My ultimate goal is to fly for the airlines and continue advancing my career in the skies!

    What I value most about aviation is the amazing connections I’ve made along the way. I love being part of a community that shares the same excitement and curiosity about flight. One of my favorite aspects of instructing is introducing people—especially those new to aviation—to this incredible industry. There’s something truly special about helping someone experience flying for the very first time!

    I’m passionate about what I do, and I am incredibly proud to be part of the Falcon AeroLab team. I can’t wait to fly with our students and help spark a lifelong love of aviation!

  • Young woman standing with arms crossed in front of a small airplane inside a hangar.

    Tiffany Peters

    Young Falcons: Course Assistant

    Tiffany Peters has been helping students get excited about science since 2018, both in the US and internationally. She has a Bachelor of Science degree and loves to explore STEM in the classroom with hands-on learning and unique activities. She is passionate about helping students feel empowered to tackle STEM centered challenges, build social skills, and problem solve.

    Outside of AeroLab, Tiffany is an avid rock climber, hiker, skier, and all-around adventurer. She completed a year long outdoor leadership program in the Adirondacks of New York and has had a passion for helping students expand their comfort zones ever since. She is thrilled to get to partner with AeroLab in the Young Falcons program

  • A middle-aged man with grey hair and a beard standing inside an airplane hangar, with a small white airplane in the background.

    Ed Anderson

    Adventure-Based Leadership: Course Lead

    Ed Anderson is a retired U.S. Army Colonel with over 29 years of service. Commissioned as a field artillery officer, he later transferred into the Army’s Space Operations career field serving in assignments ranging from the 1st Space Brigade to the Army Staff and Air Force Staff in the Pentagon. He has been passionate about the outdoors and teaching others how they can enjoy it for years. Ed has been a member of the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC) since 2018. He is a CMC Trip Leader and instructor in the Basic Mountaineering School including Alpine Snow, Rock Climbing, Ice Climbing and their High Altitude Mountaineering School. He also volunteers with Teller County Search and Rescue. Ed is certified as a Wilderness First Responder and is an American Mountain Guides Association Single Pitch Climbing Instructor.

  • A woman with red hair smiling, standing with arms crossed in front of a small white airplane inside a hangar.

    Natalie Gramer

    IFT Powered Lead Instructor, Centennial

    Natalie Gramer graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation & Aerospace as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English Writing from MSU Denver. In her time there, she co-founded the collegiate Women in Aviation Chapter and reawakened one of the nation's oldest aviation fraternities, Alpha Eta Rho. Both chapters immensely served the local aviation community but also shaped Natalie into a professional with a passion for servitude to others. Working for Falcon AeroLab only furthers that devotion, and she enjoys helping others pursue their goals and uncover their potential.

    Flying in the contrails of her father and godfather, Natalie has flown in the Denver Metro area for eight years, now holding a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, a certified flight instructor certificate, as well as advanced and instrument ground instructor certificates. Currently she is working to obtain her multi-engine class add on as well as instrument instructor certificate. When not in the classroom for Falcon AeroLab, she works as a certified flight instructor flying out of Centennial Airport.

    In her spare time, Natalie enjoys photography and writing and has published a variety of poems, short stories, and narratives.

  • A woman with long curly brown hair wearing a black polo shirt standing outdoors in front of a wall with stone and beige siding.

    Becky Clemons

    Intro to Aerospace Studies - Western Slope Area Team

    Becky Clemons graduated Cum Laude with honors from Colorado State University.  She holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing. She is highly enthusiastic about hands-on education and STEM-related opportunities so she was naturally drawn to Falcon Aerolab. She currently homeschools her two sons and enjoys the extra time she gets to spend with them. Her favorite interests in life are reading, hiking, golfing, camping, hunting, 4-wheeling, skiing, and adventuring to new places with her family. 

    Joining her team is Britny Rauen who helped kickoff their program on the Western Slope. Britny is a homeschool mom of 3 and the whole family loves to take to the slopes during the winter. You will find Britny and her family camping, dirt biking, and playing board games together.

    Together, Becky and Britny have a combined 21 years of teaching talent. They are enthusiastic about hands-on education and STEM opportunities and are happy to be a part of bringing Falcon AeroLab to the Grand Junction Area!

  • A smiling man with gray hair and beard, wearing a blue checkered shirt, stands outdoors with arms crossed in front of a brick house and greenery. There is a black outdoor lantern on the wall and a pot of pink and white flowers nearby.

    Alan Onufrak

    Intro to Aerospace Studies: Parker 1A and Centennial 1B Course Lead

    Alan Onufrak is a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant with 30 years of service. During his tenure in the Air Force Alan spent 25 years working in all facets within the Air Force Dental Services and culminated his career spending 5 years in the medical group superintendent role. Alan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Rollins College and a Master of Science degree in Management from Troy State University. Upon retiring from the Air Force in February 2014, Alan worked in healthcare and then in retail sales where he recently semi-retired. He joined Falcon AeroLab in Aug 2023. Alan and his wife have been married for over 35 years are the proud parents of three adult children and they have two grandchildren. In his spare time Alan likes to camp, fish, ski, hike and bike.

  • An elderly woman with white hair, glasses, and a bright smile, wearing a blue polo shirt with a logo, standing outdoors near a brick wall and greenery.

    Crystal Bloeman

    Aerospace Studies: NoCo Course Lead

    Crystal Bloeman is  a retired science teacher of 34+ years in public schools and am in my 42nd year working with students.  During my tenure I have always included aerospace in some fashion.  I received the A. Scott Crossfield National Teacher of the Year Award, was a finalist as the Colorado Teacher of the Year, and in Who’s Who in America Teachers, Science and Engineers.  In addition, I was on the Board of Advisors for the Space Coalition with my name listed between Buzz Aldrin and Robert Crippin.  I am a teacher liaison for the Space Foundation and continue learning about all that is related to aviation and space.

  • A man with glasses and a beard standing outdoors in front of a brick house, with greenery and flowers in the background.

    Erik Henrikson

    Cyber Course Lead

    Erik Henrikson has been teaching cybersecurity and computer technology topics to Falcon Aerolab students since 2019.  He currently coaches CyberPatriot teams both with Falcon Aerolab and Civil Air Patrol as well as encouraging students to master fundamental computer engineering skills such as programming, system administration, and network administration.  He holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Texas A&M University and an MBA from Northeastern University.  Prior to shifting his career to teaching in 2016, his industry experiences include a wide variety of roles including technical support, quality engineering, systems engineering, software engineering, and cybersecurity. 

    An active member of ISC2 and ISSA, he currently maintains ISC2 CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), ISC2 CSSLP (Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional), as well as CompTIA Security+ certifications.  He has been married to his wonderful and patient wife for over 30 years and is the proud father of four children.

  • A man with glasses and a beard stands with arms crossed outdoors in front of a brick wall with a black outdoor lantern and pink flowers in a pot, with trees and cloudy sky in the background.

    Matt Durfee

    Computer- Aided Design Instructor

    Matt has worked in software development and engineering for over 22 years. He has designed and supported software and hardware for the waste industry that runs in offices and vehicles in several businesses throughout the world.  

    He began soldering at the age of five and the desire to design, engineer and create never stopped.  From the age of 5, the desire to design, engineer, and create captivated Matt, eventually leading him into 3D design and printing. One project he undertook involved a simple 3D printer that quickly expanded into several specialized machines utilizing exotic and specialty materials in order to keep up with demands. 

    Matt has been involved in youth groups his entire life as well as serving in several church worship teams for the last 30 years. He has been married to his wife Heather for 22 years and has four amazing homeschooled children.

  • A young woman with wavy brown hair smiling outdoors near a brick wall and lush green bushes.

    Helena Witzel

    Young Falcons Instructor and Intro to Aerospace Assistant Instructor North Gate

    Helena has worked with children in an official capacity for 12 years. This time was spent working closely with children across a variety of caregiving roles, including extensive experience supporting children with special needs. Her work as a nanny and CNA fostered a strong foundation in attentive, compassionate care, shaped by meaningful, hands-on engagement.

    At the beginning of 2024, she started work with Falcon Aerolab. She is passionate about providing stimulating and unique experiences through Aerolab’s Young Falcons and 1A programs to reach children from a variety of demographics, and instilling a curiosity and intrinsic desire for learning. From personal and professional experience, she is sensitive to the specific and nuanced needs children have in the classroom. She is dedicated to making the classroom a welcoming place for all people.

    Outside of work, Helena is busy pursuing a Bachelor’s of science in Biology with a focus in teaching. Her passions include making art, writing poetry, learning new things, playing games with her friends, gardening, cooking, exercising, and spending time with her cat and pet snails

  • A smiling woman with glasses and brown hair standing outside near a brick wall and greenery.

    Randi Dotter

    Intro to Aerospace Studies: Central CO Course Lead

    Randi is a 1985 USAFA graduate and retired KC/EC-135 pilot who turned teaching into her 2nd career. She is a veteran of Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Before discovering AeroLab, Randi taught Chemistry, Physics & Physical Science at Cotopaxi Jr/Sr High School from 2007-2020. Randi was honored as the “Teacher of the Year” by the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and the State of Colorado’s Air Force Association. Her passions are teaching and “all things aerospace!” She’s excited to be able to combine those passions and return to her flying “roots” with AeroLab. Randi strives to offer her students inspiring, engaging, authentic & hands-on learning experiences. Randi is married to Gregg, an instructor pilot for Air Force IFT (Initial Flight Training) and retired AF U-2 pilot, and they share 3 adult children. They enjoy fly-fishing, hiking, backpacking, traveling, and relaxing at their rural mountain home.

  • A man wearing glasses and a dark gray polo shirt with a logo stands outside near a brick wall and greenery, smiling at the camera.

    Chad Koldenhoven

    Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAM) Instructor

    Chad has worked in manufacturing since age 19, but began making things by age 5.He has manufactured components for Medical, Aerospace, Electronic/Computer, Civil Infrastructure, and more. He started in manufacturing as a machinist, while completing his Bachelor’s degree, and moved into the Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) side of the industry 10 years later. He wants to encourage students to explore the career opportunities in the manufacturing industries and understand how everything around them is made.

    Chad is a native of Colorado Springs, has been married to his wife, Amanda, for 25 years and is principal to their two homeschool children, Ian and  Tava.

  • A middle-aged man in a dark blazer and checked shirt standing outdoors near a brick wall and greenery.

    John Norton

     IFT Gliders Course Lead

    John Norton is AeroLab’s Course Dirrctor for Introductory Flight Training - Gliders class. He is a retired Air Force pilot, part-time flight instructor, and aerospace educator. John teaches technical short courses for Practical Aeronautics, Inc. and the National Test Pilot School, as well as volunteers as a tow pilot for High Flights Soaring Club in Peyton, CO. He also spends time as a character instructor at the Air Force Academy. John holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Air Force Academy and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, and he is the proud Dad of three grown children.

  • A man with a beard and mustache, wearing a gray long sleeve polo shirt, crosses his arms and smiles at the camera outside a building with a stone exterior and a black outdoor lantern, surrounded by green bushes and flowering plants.

    Tim Hannan

    Lead Young Falcons and Intro to Aerospace Lead Instructor Multiple Locations

    Tim Hannan has been a Charter and HomeSchool advocate for several years. Tim served six years on The Classical Academy Board of Directors and two years as Board Chair for the Education Alliance of Colorado . After his service he took a job on TCA's staff as an in class instructor and paraprofessional. 

    Tim moved to Colorado in 1999 after completing his degree in Cartography, Meteorology and Weather from Ball State University. Although Tim has held many titles over the years, his true love is as a Professional Fly Fishing Guide. Tim is currently a Fly Fishing Guide during the summer with The Broadmoor. 

    Tim was an invited guest speaker at Falcon AeroLab during the 2024/25 school year. He talked to the students about aquatic biology, insect and fish behavior, and even led a section of his lecture on fly tying. 

    Tim is familiar with the mission and vision of Falcon AeroLab and is very excited to help our students realize their full potential.

  • A woman with brown hair and earrings standing outside in front of a brick wall and green shrubbery, smiling with arms crossed, under a black outdoor lantern.

    Angela Selmin

    Lead Instructor Young Falcons Northgate

    Angela Selman is a Texas native, who as a Marine brat and Air Force wife, has traveled quite extensively in her life. She is a retired teacher of thirty plus years, with her main emphasis on Middle Eastern studies. She holds a B.S. degree from Texas A&M, with a double major of history and English, and a Masters in Education from Colorado College. She is a classically trained pianist and plays for her church and the Tri-Lakes orchestra. The three great loves of her life are God, family and country. She has been married to the love of her life, Larry, for over 45 years and has two children and six grandchildren. Her hobbies include music, reading and anything outdoors.

  • A middle-aged man with short hair and a beard smiling with arms crossed in front of a brick wall with a black lantern and greenery in the background.

    George "G-Dawg" Poli

    Intro to Aerospace Studies: CMA Course Assistant & Young Falcons: Castle Rock Course Assistant

    George is originally from New York and joined the US Air Force in 1988. He started his career refueling aircraft at Kadena AB, Japan. During his time in the Air Force, he assumed many roles, teaching and supervisory, and earned his teaching degree.  His next move was to become the Honor Probation Superintendent at USAFA. Here, he counseled USAFA cadets who had violated the Honor Code through a six month character building program. He retired from the USAF after almost 21 years, and continued his passion for assisting others by working as a Transition Specialist for over six years.  He earned his masters degree in HR in 2014 and is currently working on a second masters in Leadership and Management with a completion date in 2024. He began working with Falcon Aero Lab in 2022 as an assistant instructor and enjoys working with kids to foster their interests in aerospace technologies.

  • Young man standing outdoors in front of a brick building with an outdoor lantern and green bushes, smiling with arms crossed.

    Dylan Neff

    IFT Drones Exploration and Part 107 Lead Instructor, North Gate

    Bio coming soon

  • A young man with wavy hair and a mustache standing with arms crossed in front of a small white airplane inside a hangar.

    Dawson Harrell

    Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

    Bio coming soon

  • A young man with blonde hair in a blue button-up shirt standing in front of a small airplane inside a hangar.

    Kier Eastvold

    Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

    Bio coming soon

  • A man with short brown hair and a beard wearing a blue patterned shirt standing outdoors near a brick building with a black outdoor lantern and greenery in the background.

    Ben Miller

    IFT Drones Exploration Lead Instructor North Gate

    Bio coming soon

  • A young woman with blonde hair and fair skin standing outside near a brick wall with a lantern, smiling with her arms crossed, wearing a yellow dress with a red and purple floral pattern, and a gold heart-shaped necklace.

    Vitalia Strait

    Young Falcons Lead Instructor Boulder

    Bio coming soon

  • A man with gray hair and beard standing outdoors with arms crossed, wearing a burgundy and black short-sleeved shirt and a smartwatch, in front of a brick wall with a lantern and greenery.

    Randy Seibert

    Lead Welding Instructor

    Bio coming soon

  • A young man with short light brown hair and fair skin, wearing a black button-up shirt, stands outdoors in front of a brick wall with a black outdoor lantern and green trees in the background.

    James Durfee

    Lead IronWorks Instructor

    Bio coming soon

  • A hangar containing a light aircraft with a 'Picture Coming Soon' overlay.

    Jack Carpenter

    IFT Powered: CMA Course Lead Orientation Powered Flight Pilot

    Jack Carpenter is a Colorado native who grew up around aviation with both parents serving in the United States Air Force. In 2020, he pursued an aviation career by becoming a private pilot in Longview, Texas before moving back home to Colorado Springs. He spent 3 years working with children ages 6-12 at a summer camp in Pryor, Oklahoma called New Life Ranch where he served as a counselor, activities lead, and summer activities leader.

    Now, Jack is finishing a degree at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and pursuing an instrument rating with the goal of becoming a commercial pilot. He is grateful for such an incredible opportunity with AeroLab where he can combine his two passions together: aviation and setting children up for success in the future. In his spare time, Jack likes to spend time with his friends and family going on camping trips in the summer and ski trips in the winter.

  • Text overlay reading 'Picture Coming Soon' on an airplane hangar background.

    Sarah Bishop

    Young Falcons Assistant Instructor Northgate

    My name is Sarah Bishop and I love working with students and encouraging them to grow in confidence and curiosity. I have experience working with kids across multiple environments and stages of life, which helps me connect easily with each student. At Falcon AeroLab, I enjoy creating a positive, supportive space where students feel seen, heard, and excited to try new things. I am passionate about helping kids discover their true potential. 

  • Aircraft inside hangar with a sign that says 'Picture coming soon'

    Mike Vidovich

    Lead Instructor Aircraft Mechanics Classes

    Mike Vidovich is a lifelong mechanic with over 45 years of experience and more than 80,000 hours in the field. He has held his FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic license for over 20 years and has earned multiple industry certifications across various mechanical disciplines. A former business owner and expert in race technology, suspension systems, and bike mechanics, Mike brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to Falcon AeroLab.

    Since joining AeroLab in 2020, he has been dedicated to mentoring and instructing high school students (ages 12-18), sharing his expertise in aviation and mechanical engineering.

    Personal Note:                                                  It is truly an honor and pleasure to instruct, mentor, and work with our Aerolab lab students and parents, as these students are our future and our future is bright.

  • A hangar with an airplane inside showing a sign that reads 'Picture Coming Soon'.

    Debbie Cassel

    STEAM Lead Instructor Fort Morgan & IFT Powered Virtual Lead Instructor

    Bio coming soon

  • A hangar with a private jet and a large sign that reads 'Picture Coming Soon'

    Dalton Duke

    Intro to Aerospace Lead Instructor Boulder

    Bio coming soon

  • Airport hangar with a small airplane and a sign that says 'Picture Coming Soon'.

    Janet Harrold

    Young Falcons Lead Instructor North Gate and Fledglings Assistant Instructor Castle Rock

    Bio coming soon

  • A hangar with a private jet and a sign that reads 'Picture Coming Soon'

    Kelli Matott

    Young Falcons Lead Instructor Elizabeth

    Bio coming soon

  • A hangar with a partially visible airplane inside and a sign that reads 'Picture Coming Soon' in the foreground.

    Ben Mead

    IFT Gliders Lead Instructor Boulder

    Bio coming soon

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Geobob Photography blends the art of photography with a deep appreciation for storytelling. As both a geologist and photographer, Bob brings a unique perspective to every shot, capturing the raw emotion & beauty of life's most meaningful moments. Specializing in weddings and intimate celebrations, he ensures that every laugh, tear, and loving glance is preserved with stunning detail.