RAF FEATURED SUPPORTER: STEVE JONES

You could say Steve Jones has aviation in his blood. He is the IT manager for the company that operates the largest, most diverse private aircraft fleet in the world, hangs out weekends at his active local GA airport, AND is willing and able to volunteer his skills for the RAF. Steve helps manage the RAF’s data systems, bringing his “back shop” tech knowledge to make sure things run seamlessly on the front end.

Maybe being born and raised in Columbus, Ohio – so close to the birthplace of powered aviation – has something to do with his passion. Steve began his aviation journey as a CAP cadet, and earned his PPL and tailwheel endorsement. He graduated from Ohio State University with a BA in Aviation Management, then embarked on his career in the aviation industry. He met his wife Kasey at NetJets, where Steve is fulfilling his twenty-first year, and they live in Pickerington, Ohio. Kasey is a Product Business Analyst for an aviation software company.

When Steve met RAF Ohio Liaison Christine Mortine at an AOPA “Peaks to Pavement” event, “It opened my eyes to backcountry flying, and I’ve never gone back to ‘traditional flying,’ preferring grass strips,” he says. “I’m really looking forward to flying into places like North Fox Island,” he added. In addition to his volunteer time for the RAF at his desk, he has helped make improvements at Noble County Airport adjacent to Wolf Run State Park, where folks can fly in and camp near the lakeshore. Kasey supports his passion, and is encouraging him to buy an airplane so they can both enjoy exercising their piloting skills. He would love to own and fly a Sport Cub or a stock SuperCub.

His local airport, Fairfield County in Lancaster, has an active pilots organization, EAA chapter, and historical aircraft museum right at the airport. There is also an Aviation Career Center nearby that has educational and mentoring programs for young people. Steve remains active in CAP where he got his aviation start.

Steve and Kasey love traveling, and it’s likely wherever they go, a winery or local airport is typically a place they visit. Once they get that taildragger, all they will need is the current VFR chart and the RAF Airfield Guide to plan new adventures.

Submitted May 13, 2025
By Carmine Mowbray

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