Tom Ivers is the owner of three start-up tech companies, is happily married to his wife Monica, and is the father of three beautiful girls: Eleanor (10), Caroline (8), and Natalie (6). In 2016 his businesses were growing and Ivers began to find himself working away from home with increasing regularity. He was eager to find a way to gain time back with his family.
As he began to look for a solution that would keep him active in the business world and present at home, Ivers remembered a childhood joy.
“As a kid, I always loved aircraft,” Ivers said. “My father and I built model planes together as a hobby, and I was drawn to movies that featured flight. I just never thought being a pilot was obtainable.”
However, as an adult faced with a traveling dilemma who found himself working just minutes from a flight training center, Ivers realized piloting was an option he could finally explore.
That May, Ivers took an hour-long discovery flight at a Cincinnati airport, and he began to see a new and improved future for himself and his family.
“After I took that initial flight, I saw the perfect opportunity to pursue something I’ve always loved and use it in a way to benefit my personal life,” explained Ivers. “The one thing you can’t pay for is time – but through aviation, I’ve been able to spend more time with my family. What’s more important than that?”
As a successful tech entrepreneur, Ivers knows the importance of detail and strategy. Once Ivers decided he wanted to become a pilot, he knew he only wanted to work with an extremely educated and competent trainer.
Ivers began researching different instructors and training centers. He ultimately landed on Ken Grause, a Platinum Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot with incredible knowledge and an exceptional record.
“I was looking for the best of the best, and I found that in Ken,” Ivers said. “He is demanding and challenged me every time we met for a lesson. I never doubted that I was learning to fly safely and correctly with Ken.”
While training, Ivers knew pretty quickly that he wanted to purchase an aircraft rather than rent. Grause knew the perfect company to assist Ivers in this important milestone was Lone Mountain Aircraft (LMA).
“I was looking for a good starter plane that could introduce me to aviation without breaking the bank. Ken knew that Lone Mountain’s Mark Rogers had a plane that wasn’t even on the market yet. He introduced us, and it was as easy as that. My first aircraft was a 2007 G2 SR20. I flew the heck out of it while I was obtaining my private pilot certification and instrument rating. It was the perfect plane for me at that time.”
Shortly after obtaining his instrument rating, Ivers once again partnered with LMA to upgrade his G2 SR20 to a 2014 Cirrus SR22 through what he calls “a perfect and seamless transaction.”
“When I decided I was ready for a new aircraft, there was no doubt about returning to LMA. I’ve had nothing but great experiences with them. Since I am only interested in Cirrus aircraft at this time, it’s a no-brainer.”
Last month, Ivers worked with LMA to secure another upgrade, trading in his SR22 to go in with two other partners on a 2018 Cirrus Vision Jet. Ivers said that LMA would continue to hold his business thanks to its smooth transactions, top-notch crew, and the multitude of services it offers.
“Another great thing about LMA is that they have a top-notch maintenance facility that compliments their sales expertise. I really cannot say enough about Ryan Yenger and his maintenance team. I have called him on nights and weekends. He always picks up his cell and gives me the information I need. My experience with every member of LMA has been excellent.”
Ivers said the primary reason for obtaining his private license was to make his business travel more efficient and flexible. However, Ivers added that his favorite thing about flying is exploring the country with his family.
“There are so many reasons why people fly, but for me, it’s the ability to go places. My family and I have gone on so many awesome adventures because of aviation. As soon as I started flying, I realized how many possibilities were out there, and I’ve been dreaming about them ever since. In my experience, learning to fly is like watching the world expand.”
Our team of pilots at LMA enjoys helping clients find their ideal aircraft. Whether you are buying your first plane or looking to upgrade, we’d love to help you find the perfect fit for you. Contact us today if you are interested in learning more.
