Our team at Flying.org has a strong commitment to serving the many constituents of our nonprofit. But first and foremost, they focus their energies on those who take advantage of our programs and services.
Flying.org is managed by a board of directors. Our board represents a cross-section of our community and has a passion for our kids and aviation. The members work hard to ensure long-term sustainability of Flying.org and oversee that the funds raised directly affect our students.
-
Nick Kosko leads Flying.org’s strategy, organizational development, fundraising, financial stewardship, partnerships, sponsor relationships, growth, and day-to-day operations.
A former airline captain with more than 8,000 flight hours, Nick has flown aircraft including the EMB-145, DC-8, Boeing 747-400, Boeing 757 and 767, and Airbus A300. His aviation career also included leadership within the Independent Pilots Association and service as a trustee of the IPA Foundation, where he gained firsthand experience in governance, charitable work, and mission-driven organizations.
Beyond aviation, Nick is an entrepreneur, investor, and business owner with experience building and operating companies across several industries. His business interests have included Smash My Trash, Superior Fence & Rail, and multiple real estate partnerships.
Nick is also involved with CreateTailwind, where he works in wealth strategy and financial education, and co-hosts the Breakaway Wealth podcast.
At Flying.org, Nick brings together aviation experience, business discipline, nonprofit leadership, and a long-term commitment to building an organization capable of opening aviation to the next generation.
-
Founder & Director of Development
Bill Vaughan leads donor relations, corporate sponsorships, strategic partnerships, face-to-face fundraising, aviation community outreach, and nonprofit development for Flying.org.
A decorated U.S. Army Persian Gulf War combat veteran, Bill is a UPS Boeing 747 captain with more than 20,000 hours of flight experience. His aviation career has included the Gulfstream IV and G550, McDonnell Douglas MD-11, Boeing 757 and 767, and Boeing 747.
Bill is also the founder of Operation Backpack4Kids, a charitable initiative created to support children and families in need. His humanitarian service has included coordinating assistance for Ukrainian refugees and developing a partnership with the American Red Cross.
In recognition of his leadership and commitment to community service, Bill received the 2025 UPS Jim Casey Community Service Award.
At Flying.org, Bill combines decades of aviation experience with a proven ability to build partnerships, mobilize resources, and turn charitable ideas into effective real-world programs. His work helps ensure that the organization’s mission is supported by lasting relationships with donors, sponsors, aviation organizations, and the communities Flying.org serves.
-
C. A. Pensiero
Founder & Director of Communications & Digital Media
Domain, website, social media, storytelling, content strategy, public voice, brand development, digital presence, aviation writing, and media projects.
Chad is a Boeing 747 Captain with over 20,000+ hours of flight time in the ATR-42, ATR-72, EMB120, EMB145, B737, B747, B757, B767, A300, MD-11. He is the author of Pocono Flying Lessons, an aviation writer, storyteller, and digital communications lead.
