VADM Gerald L. Hoewing, a native of Keokuk, Iowa, was commissioned an ensign from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He flew the A-7E Corsair II light attack aircraft on multiple deployments to the Western Pacific, Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean. VADM Hoewing was the Operational Test Director for the F/A-18 Hornet aircraft during its initial operation evaluation and later commanded VFA-81 embarked in USS Saratoga (CV-60) during Operation Desert Shield.

Additional sea duty commands included USS Seattle (AOE-3), USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) and Commander Carrier Group SEVEN. His shore assignments included tours of duty in the Bureau of Naval Personnel and Office of the Secretary of Defense. VADM Hoewing’s final active duty assignment was as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education), Chief of Naval Personnel.

VADM Hoewing is President of the National Flight Academy. He has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation since 2006.

Teresa Gurka joined the NFA staff as the Program Director of the NFA. Teresa has more than 10 years of comprehensive and senior level executive assistance experience, as well as experience in accounting, office management and human resources certification.

Chip Yarbrough joined the NFA as Manager of Camp Operations. He has more than eight years of experience at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center with their “Space Camp” and “Aviation Challenge” programs in Huntsville, Alabama. He also has experience as an evaluation and accreditation manager at the Department of Homeland Security. Chip holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications.

Tainaeja "TJ" Brown is one of the newest members of the NFA team. She has joined the staff as an administrative assistant and receptionist with more than 6 years of customer service and office experience. She attended the University of South Alabama for 3 years as a biology major and has recently transferred to the University of West Florida where she is currently studying psychology.