Ken Cook

Background

About Ken Cook

With over 35 years of experience in the aviation industry, I have developed a strong background in flight operations management. My expertise includes labor relations, financial management, regulatory compliance, and training. As an effective leader, I prioritize honest and straightforward communication, combined with a focus on innovation. I understand the importance of dedication, knowledge, and talent and strive to provide employees with the necessary support to succeed. I began my aviation career as an Airline First Officer and have since held various roles, including Captain, Instructor Pilot, and FAA Designated Check Airman. During my tenure as the Legislative Affairs Chairman and Chairman of the Negotiating Committee for the Air Line Pilots Association, I honed my diplomacy skills and built cooperative relationships with legislators and management. This experience has given me a deep understanding of flight operations, pilot training, regulatory compliance, and labor relations. In addition to my aviation background, I am passionate about public education. From 2003 to 2012, I served on the Boone County Board of Education, with the privilege of being Chairman in 2005 and 2012. Leading the third largest school district in the Commonwealth of Kentucky under significant budget constraints tested my skills and talents. Despite the pressures, I played a crucial role in making Boone County Schools the highest-performing large diverse district in the Commonwealth. During my time at FlightSafety, I served as the Program Manager of the Embraer 170/190 and later as the Program Manager of the Embraer Legacy 450/500 (Praetor). Currently, as the Training Center Manager at SIMCOM Aviation Training, I am responsible for the daily operations of our training center. This includes making day-to-day operational decisions, overseeing client training, and handling personnel issues such as recruiting and hiring instructors and Training Center Evaluators. I have also served as the Assistant Training Center Manager and interim Director of Training. In my current role, I proactively address customer issues, develop and maintain the training schedule, and ensure the accuracy of training records. I prioritize the quality of our product and never compromise it due to customer requests or economic pressures. I strongly believe in the value of relationships and the people who contribute to an organization's success. As a proven leader and true professional, I am confident that I would be a positive force in any organization.