Patrick (Pat) Monfiston-Desir is an Airline Transport Pilot and currently serves as a Captain at USA Jet Airlines. Alongside his flying responsibilities, he holds the roles of Professional Standards Manager and Jumpseat Coordinator. Pat's academic journey includes graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earning an MBA from the D'Amore-McKin School of Business at Northeastern University.

Previously, Patrick navigated a successful 10-year career in Financial Advisory and Investment Banking, first starting as a Stock Broker, then Financial Advisor, before pursuing his childhood dream in aviation. Within his new industry, Pat’s roles have spanned from Flight Instructor and Charter Pilot to Regional Airline Pilot, and he is now evolving at a cargo operator.

Active in community service, Patrick served as the Northeast Region Assistant at the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP). Currently, he plays a founding role in the organization's Youth Development Program (YDP), offering one-on-one guidance to students as a mentor, fostering their growth and development. Patrick's impact also extends through volunteer work with the Unspoken Smiles Foundation (USF). Recognized by President Barack H. Obama with The President's Volunteer Service Award, Pat's commitment continues to focus on improving oral health education and providing sustainable careers in dentistry, especially for women in impoverished areas.

As a founding member of the Haitian Pilots Association, Patrick envisions leveraging his experiences to help fellow Haitians fulfill their aviation dreams. Through education and mentorship, his goal is to expand opportunities and contribute to the growth of aviation enthusiasts within the Haitian community, fostering a legacy of excellence and achievement in the field.

Tarah Ernest serves as a Captain at American Airlines, piloting the Boeing 737 from their Miami, Florida base.

Before joining American Airlines, Tarah held the position of Captain for an Embraer 175 and served as a Pilot Recruiter for Republic Airways. In this role, she ensured the safe operation of Republic’s aircraft and actively promoted the mission of safe and reliable transport.

With nearly 15 years in the aviation industry, Tarah has gained experience across various sectors, including flight instruction, corporate and charter operations, regional airlines, and her current role with a major carrier.

On October 6th, 2022, Tarah Ernest achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Haitian female pilot to fly a commercial airliner to Haiti on flight AAL 949, offering nonstop service from Miami to Port-au-Prince.

A graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Tarah holds a Bachelor's in Aeronautical Science with a minor in Air Traffic Control. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Business Administration with a specialization in Aviation Management.

During her leisure time, Tarah indulges in her passion for global travel, immersing herself in diverse cultures. When not abroad, she often visits her mother, cherishing moments to catch up and enjoy her mom’s cooking.

As a Haitian Female Pilot, Tarah is firsthand familiar with the challenges minorities face in pursuing an aviation career. This experience has fueled her passion for mentoring aspiring pilots. Actively engaged with organizations such as Sisters of the Skies and the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Tarah is committed to making aviation more accessible to people of color. Her overarching goal is to break barriers, reduce hurdles for minorities in the industry, and promote aviation inclusivity for all.

Georges "Jeff" Barnes is an Airline Transport Pilot and an experienced aviation manager. Jeff's first job out of flight school was flying single-engine piston aircraft to remote parts of Haiti for a local bank.

After starting an aerial advertising business towing banners in Haiti, he joined the Haitian flag carrier, Sunrise Airways, to build training programs and assist the CEO. During his five years at Sunrise Airways, he designed and implemented Safety Management Systems.

Jeff's primary aviation training was at Bridgewater State University, and he holds a degree in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts. Currently, he is a Boeing 737 First Officer at American Airlines and manages a Part 135 operation.