Zachary Duran
Chicago,IL
Summary
Commercial Pilot with 500 hours total time, building experience toward 1,500 hours, seeking entry to a cadet program and future employment opportunities with a Part 121 operator.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Flight Instructor - ASEL
Griffith Aviation
Griffith, IN, United States
09.2025 - Current
- Developed personalized training plans to meet individual student needs in accordance with FAA regulations
- Enhanced student understanding of aircraft systems procedures and aeronautical decision-making to ensure operational safety.
- Assisted in preflight planning and conducted postflight debriefs to support team performance evaluations.
- Oversaw aircraft dispatching, refueling, and ground operations to ensure efficient flight schedules.
Pipeline Inspection Pilot
Big Picture Aviation Inc.
12.2025 - Current
- Executed federally mandated aerial inspections of oil pipelines to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Managed navigation and control of complex aircraft during prolonged flights, adhering to all regulatory standards.
- Managed complex airspace navigation, collaborating with air traffic control and other aircraft to maintain operational safety.
Luthier
Third Coast Guitar Services
Chicago
01.2006 - Current
- Applied meticulous attention to detail in the construction and restoration of stringed instruments.
- Delivered exceptional customer experiences by consistently exceeding expectations in both craftsmanship and communication throughout the instrument creation or repair process.
- Applied critical thinking and hands-on problem solving to address unique challenges in instrument repair, adapting techniques to each instrument’s condition and player needs.
Musician/Crew Member
The Right Stuff Entertainment
Chicago, IL
09.2017 - Current
- Facilitated collaboration among musicians to produce cohesive performances that enhance teamwork and creativity.
- Facilitated enhanced band dynamics through constructive feedback and fostering open communication among members.
- Adapted quickly to changing performance environments, schedules, and technical requirements.
Education
Palos Hills, IL -
August 2002- May 2005
Moraine Valley Community CollegeSkills
- Time and task management
- Documentation skills
- Weather analysis and interpretation
- Flight instruction experience
- Aviation regulations compliance
Flight Hours
Total Time: 504.4 PIC: 457.5 Dual Given: 101.8 Night: 35.7 Cross-Country: 171.2 Instrument: 52.6 Sim / 1.7 Actual
Certification
- Flight Instructor : ASEL
- Ground Instructor: Advanced/ Instrument
- Commercial Pilot: ASEL
- Endorsements: Complex
- Instrument : ASEL
- First Class Medical
Timeline
Pipeline Inspection Pilot
Big Picture Aviation Inc.
12.2025 - Current
Certified Flight Instructor - ASEL
Griffith Aviation
09.2025 - Current
Musician/Crew Member
The Right Stuff Entertainment
09.2017 - Current
Luthier
Third Coast Guitar Services
01.2006 - Current
Palos Hills, IL -
August 2002- May 2005