TESSA HILLEMAN
Bozeman,MT
Summary
Commercial pilot and newly certified flight instructor with hands-on PIC experience, including scenic flights in variable mountain conditions. Background includes weather routing, weight and balance, aircraft troubleshooting, and clear passenger communication, paired with instructor training in maneuver evaluation, learning styles, and safety-focused instruction.
Overview
1
1
Certification
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Certified Flight Instructor – Airplane, Single-Engine Land
Ridgeline Aviation
Bozeman, MT
05.2026 - 09.2026
- Evaluated student maneuvers, decision-making, and risk management from an instructor perspective and enhancing safety and building student confidence.
- Completed ground and practical training requirements to instructor standards in aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, federal aviation regulations, and advanced maneuver instruction.
- Developed teaching approach centered on relationship-first instruction, identifying student learning styles and adjusting methods while upholding strict safety standards.
- Passed Fundamentals of Instruction written exam with 90%, showing strong understanding of adult learning principles, instructional methods, and adaptation to different learning styles.
- Gained diverse instructor experience that reinforced commitment to trust-building, fostering student support and passion for aviation in every lesson.
Fixed-Wing Pilot in Command – Scenic Tours
Yellowstone Scenic Tours
West Yellowstone, MT
05.2026 - Current
- Supported 40+ scenic flights across Greater Yellowstone region by making real-time weather routing and risk management decisions in variable mountain conditions.
- Executed single-pilot operations in real-world conditions, enhancing judgment, workload management, and decision-making skills for effective student instruction.
- Conducted weight and balance calculations for passenger loads, managed external pressure and passenger expectations, and ensured clear safety communication.
- Troubleshot aircraft systems and resolved malfunctions like flat tires and oil leaks, enhancing systems knowledge and maintenance awareness for effective instruction.
Commercial Pilot – Single-Engine Land
Ridgeline Aviation
Bozeman, MT
12.2025
- Executed precision maneuvers, abnormal and emergency procedures, and professional airmanship to achieve compliance with commercial standards.
- Operated commercial flights following Ridgeline Aviation safety procedures.
- Reviewed weather reports and flight plans for Ridgeline Aviation departures.
- Conducted preflight inspections for Ridgeline Aviation aircraft and cabin readiness.
Instrument Rating & Private Pilot
Summit Aviation
Bozeman, MT
10.2022 - Current
- Achieved instrument rating following extensive flight training, demonstrating proficiency in navigating under instrument flight rules.
- Completed Part 141 training aligned with A.A.S. aviation coursework, building IFR procedures, approach planning, and workload management skills.
- Navigated Summit Aviation flights using FAA regulations and approved flight plans.
- Monitored weather reports and adjusted routing for safe flight operations.
- Inspected aircraft systems before departure and after landing at Summit Aviation.
Farm Management Intern
The Flower Hat
Bozeman, MT
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Led daily briefings for seasonal crews, tailoring explanations to match experience levels and learning styles for effective communication.
- Created and maintained weekly work schedules across multiple teams, mirroring structured curriculum planning and progress tracking.
- Identified process gaps and implemented improvements, fostering continuous improvement and adherence to best practices.
Sales Associate
Bozeman Running Company
Bozeman, MT
01.2024 - 06.2025
- Assisted customers with running shoe fittings and product selections at a specialty running store.
- Evaluated customer needs to recommend appropriate footwear options based on gait, comfort, and training needs.
- Operated point-of-sale system for sales, returns, and exchanges.
- Translated technical product information into clear, tailored guidance, enhancing customer understanding and satisfaction.
- Enhanced active listening and questioning skills to facilitate effective student debriefs and coaching sessions.
Summer Recreation Assistant
Eagle Mount
Bozeman, MT
05.2023 - 09.2023
- Facilitated adaptive activities for participants with varied abilities, requiring patience, empathy, and flexible teaching approaches.
- Monitored participant safety during activities and outdoor recreation sessions.
- Ensured safety and inclusion, skills directly relevant to working with student pilots at different comfort and confidence levels.
- Supported adaptive recreation programs for participants with disabilities.
- Facilitated staff preparation by organizing and arranging equipment and program area preparation.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business, Management Option, Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
Montana State University – Jake Jabs School of Business & Entrepreneurship
Bozeman, MT06-2026
Associate of Applied Science - Aviation
Gallatin College
Bozeman, MTSkills
- Flight instruction
- Risk management
- Pilot decision making
- Weather analysis
- Airspace procedures
- Weight and balance
- High-performance aircraft handling
- Customer service
Certification
FAA First Class Medical Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor – Airplane, Single-Engine Land, Commercial Pilot – Single-Engine Land, Instrument Rating – Airplane
Honors & Service
MSU Founders Day Award Recipient, Spring 2026 – University-wide recognition for students who combine strong academics, extensive campus and community engagement, and demonstrated perseverance, determination, and grit., Montana Antique Aircraft Association Scholarship Recipient, Spring 2025, Montana State University Tuition Waiver Recipient, Founding Member & Board Member (Social Media/Community Outreach), MSU Active Minds, Extensive volunteer service with at-risk youth, athletes with adaptive needs, and veterans
Volunteer Experience
Extensive volunteer service with at-risk youth, athletes with adaptive needs, and veterans
LEADERSHIP, PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS & HONORS
- Leadership & Involvement
- Secretary, Women in Aviation – Bozeman Chapter | Jan 2022 – 2024
- Community Outreach & Social Media, MSU Active Minds | Aug 2023 – 2025
- Member, MSU Women in Business | Apr 2025 – Present
- International Show Horse Association – MSU Chapter | Jan 2022 – 2023
- MSU Nordic Club | Aug 2023 – Mar 2024
- Professional Associations
- The Ninety-Nines – International Organization of Women Pilots | May 2022 – Present
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) | Jan 2021 – Present
- Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE) | Dec 2025 – Present
Timeline
Certified Flight Instructor – Airplane, Single-Engine Land
Ridgeline Aviation
05.2026 - 09.2026
Fixed-Wing Pilot in Command – Scenic Tours
Yellowstone Scenic Tours
05.2026 - Current
Commercial Pilot – Single-Engine Land
Ridgeline Aviation
12.2025
Farm Management Intern
The Flower Hat
05.2025 - 08.2025
Sales Associate
Bozeman Running Company
01.2024 - 06.2025
Summer Recreation Assistant
Eagle Mount
05.2023 - 09.2023
Instrument Rating & Private Pilot
Summit Aviation
10.2022 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Business, Management Option, Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
Montana State University – Jake Jabs School of Business & Entrepreneurship
Associate of Applied Science - Aviation
Gallatin College