Brian Smith – Global Aviator, Executive & Humanitarian
Brian Smith’s passion for aviation began early and was given his first flying lesson at the age of 10 in southwestern Connecticut and started flying on his own at the age of 17. He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science and a minor in Business Administration.
He built most of his early aviation experience flying over 100 different types of single and multi-engine aircraft around the country. For the past 30+ years he has been part of International Jet serving in many different capacities including: Director of Training & Standardization, Director of Safety, 22 years as an FAA Check Airman, Chief Pilot and President. Brian has over 14,000 hours and 28 years of commercial airline experience flying to over 50 countries and making more than 115 circles around the globe in various aircraft to include: Learjets, the Boeing 727, DC-10, MD-11 and the Boeing 777.
Beyond the cockpit, Brian is a dedicated supporter of numerous charitable organizations. He contributes his time and resources to the Navy SEAL Foundation, Volunteers of America, Angel Flight West, the Classic Learjet Foundation, EAA, and the Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies, where he helps foster the next generation of talent and service.
With a rare combination of flight experience, executive leadership, and a heart for service, Brian Smith is a respected and inspiring presence in the aviation world.
Throughout his career, Brian has earned a reputation for excellence, mentorship, and unwavering professionalism. Whether training the next generation of pilots, leading safety initiatives, or flying across continents, he brings a calm, knowledgeable presence and a passion for aviation that is both contagious and enduring. His leadership continues to shape the culture at International Jet, where innovation, safety, and personalized service remain at the core of every flight.
Doug Strangfeld – Aviation Executive & Industry Veteran.
Doug Strangfeld is a seasoned aviation professional with over four decades of experience spanning executive leadership, flight operations, maintenance management, aircraft sales, and manufacturing. He currently serves as the President and Chief Operating Officer at International Jet Aviation Services, where he has been a key figure for over 43 years. His leadership supports operational excellence, customer development, and FAA regulatory compliance.
Doug began his career in aviation as a Production Test Flight Mechanic at Cessna Aircraft Company, working on aircraft such as the 525, 441, and 425 models. He later held the role of Vice President of Maintenance at International Jet Aviation Services from 1982 to 1994, overseeing a 15-aircraft jet fleet. His commitment to operational quality and safety continued through his tenure as Chief Pilot at Sunward Trucking, where he managed flight and maintenance for a six-aircraft fleet for 16 years. With 25 years at International Jet, Doug is current and qualified on multiple types of Learjet.
Beyond operations, Doug is also the President of Aero Trans International, where he leads aircraft sales, acquisitions, and international import/export consulting. His broad expertise also extends into the manufacturing sector, having served as Vice President of Manufacturing at Rockford Manufacturing, where he managed a $10M inventory across two steel building production facilities.
Doug holds degrees in Aviation Management from Metropolitan State University of Denver and studied Aerospace Engineering at Wichita State University. He is also FAA-certified in Airframe & Powerplant through Redstone Collegeand is a licensed commercial pilot.
Known for his strategic insight, hands-on approach, and lifelong commitment to aviation, Doug brings a unique blend of technical depth, business acumen, and leadership to every project he undertakes.