Director at Large
Matt’s interest in aviation began at an early age. Working several jobs he earned his way to a Private Pilot SEL rating at the age of 17, then went on to pilot helicopters after graduating from the Air Force Academy. He earned his wings at Fort Rucker, AL in 1986 and flew continuously in both the Rescue and Special Operations communities for the next 20 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. After serving as a volunteer pilot with a Law Enforcement Air Support Unit, he began a second career in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services/Air Ambulance (HEMS/HAA) field where he currently flies in the Pacific Northwest.
Matt has amassed over 6,500 hours in a variety of rotorcraft including the TH55, UH1H, UN1N, UH60L, MH/HH60G, OH58A, EC135 and AW119. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Air Force Academy and a Master of Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He has also flown gliders and holds a Private Pilot rating in the Lighter-than-Air (Hot Air Balloon) category. He is a member of the Order of Daedalians and desires to help inspire the next generation of aviators to also experience the adventures of flight he’s enjoyed for over 40 years.
Matt Lyons
Director at Large