Biographies
Michael Heilpern
Operations Manager
Michael has been a lifelong aviation enthusiast. His first job was with Renton Aviation in Washington state as a lineman, where he really enjoyed working with floatplanes. Taking a job with Galvin Flying Service on Boeing Field in 1985, Michael started his professional career. In 1997 he was extended the opportunity to join the Monterey Jet Center where he helped bring the under construction facility on line. Over the years Michael has received numerous awards and has been recognized as one of the top line service managers in the U.S. He is grateful to work with many hard working team members and to have earned the support of our wonderful customers.
(If you are looking for a trivia team mate – this history buff and aviation aficionado is your guy! Try and stump him the next time you fly in!)
Kawai Lopez
Customer Service Manager
As the ultimate Monterey Jet Center cheerleader, Kawai's enthusiasm and passion for the MJC culture can be felt in many of the services that we offer. She strongly believes in good old fashion customer service and welcoming everyone into the Monterey Jet Center family. From appreciation events, surprise goodie bags, to throwing epic parties, Kawai loves going the extra mile to make sure everyone has a memorable experience. Humbled by how much the team loves the Monterey Jet Center, she is unable to accurately describe how much their dedication, support, and positive energy mean to her (especially when she has some crazy - but fun - ideas). She is the first one to brag about her team and loves Car Week because "we get to show the world how awesome our team is!".
Kawai has been recognized by AIN's FBO survey and is determined to get her team the recognition it deserves - #1 FBO in both the PRASE Survey and in AIN.
Jason Gray
Line Service Supervisor
Jason has been taking care of your aircraft and customers since 2001, always making sure you get the quickest quick turns! Whether it's how you like your coffee or your favorite sports team, no detail is too small for Jason. His ability to effortlessly connect with people is what takes his customer service to the next level. He is honored to have worked with two of the aviation community's finest, Michael Heilpern and the late Nate Young. Jason credits them for his love of aviation and for teaching him that "it's not just about airplanes, it's about making the Monterey Jet Center your second home".
Jason sends a special shout out to his Monterey Jet Center family: "Thanks for making my time here more than just a job. The last 18 years have been so fun!"
Paul Faurot
Line Service Supervisor
Born and raised in the Monterey Bay Area, Paul fell in love with flying when he took his first ride in a TaylorCraft. He got his Private Pilot's License at the age of 17, and has his instrument rating with over 1,000 hours of flying in numerous aircraft. After catching the aviation bug, it led him to a career with over 40+ years in the industry. Working in operations, sales, and management, Paul has developed a unique perspective in the industry that allows him to effortlessly deliver a refined level of service. Paul is an aviation enthusiast and especially enjoys helping our customers at the Monterey Jet Center. When not at work, Paul can be found working on his large family farm, traveling, or spending time with his 5 kids and 8 grandchildren.
