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Contact by Phone  
(Members Only)  
Steve Gauvin

I graduated from the University of San Diego in 1989 with a Bachelors Degree in Economics. After careers in Financial Consulting and Commercial Real Estate, I am now a full-time flight instructor at West Valley.

I was a Captain in the Civil Air Patrol (United States Air Force Aux.) flying as a Search and Rescue Mission Pilot. I am currently flying support missions as a volunteer pilot with the San Mateo County Sheriffs Office Air Squadron.

I am a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI).

I live in San Carlos, and enjoy outdoor activities when I am not flying; I also like spending time with friends and entertaining at home, especially Summer BBQs.

Base airport: SQL

Teaches at: SQL

Accepting new students? Yes

Email: scgauvin@gmail.com

Hourly instruction rate: $ 60

Ratings held: Airline Transport Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Flight Instructor, Instrument Flight Instructor, Multi-Engine Flight Instructor, Advanced Ground Instructor, Instrumemt Ground Instructor

May instruct in these aircraft types:   *Checkpilot
Cessnas (high wing), Pipers (low wing) - whichever the student prefers.


Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
I love flying and sharing my knowledge and experience with my students. I also like helping people grow and accomplish their goals in the context of aviation.

How long have you been instructing?
I have been flying for almost 20 years, and instructing for over 14 years.

Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
I live closer to San Carlos Airport (SQL), and prefer it, but I will teach at either. It all depends on what is most convenient for the student.

How would you describe your availability in general?
I will usually teach from 9:00 to the end of the day, Tuesday through Sunday . I am flexible and can accomodate most schedules.

What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
It depends on student learning preferences. Personally, I think the Gleim books and software are the most efficient for passing the written tests. The Club also has an excellent ground school on Tuesday nights at 6:30pm, with a continuously rotating subject matter structure.

What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
I am physically most comfortable in Cessna 172S or Piper Warrior aircraft, as I am 6 foot 3 inches. The newer Cessnas are very nice!

What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
I like the Piper Warrior and the Cessna 172S as a training platform for new students. I really like the newer Cessna 172SPs.

What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
99%


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