Board of Directors

Kirk Bajdek is currently serving as Chair of the Board of Directors.  Kirk’s entry into aviation was in the US Navy in 1976, specializing on the A7-E Corsair II. He received his A&P license in 1987 and acquired his Inspection Authorization in 1990. Kirk’s experience encompasses Part 91, Part 125, Part 135, and Part 145 Repair Station operations along with specialized training and experience on single & multi-engine piston, multi-engine jet, turbine helicopters, and Non-Destructive Testing. As a Crew Chief and then Chief Inspector with Amway, Kirk oversaw the repair station operations and served as associate Safety Officer. Kirk is a member of Encounter Community Church in Belding, MI.

David has a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern College, Orange City, Iowa, in Business Administration. Additionally, he has a Missionary Aviation diploma from Moody Bible Institute. Masters candidate from Eastern University in International Development. David currently serves as a Regional Director of MAF – a mission organization with whom he has served since 1992.

Jeff is a flight instructor focusing on tailwheel and aerobatic operations.  He also writes (fiction and non-fiction), develops software, and has spent several years in non-profit management.

Rachel Glupker is currently serving as Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors. Rachel’s passion for aviation started with flying at age 15, soloing at 16, and earning her private certificate on her 17^th birthday. All self-funded.  Rachel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Western Michigan University where she competed on the flight team all four years, serving as team captain and President of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) during her Senior year.

Rachel serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Hudsonville Ice Cream, based in Holland, MI.  Prior to Hudsonville, Rachel worked for Amway in a variety of roles, both foreign and domestic, over the past 15 years.  She brings to SMAT her passion for flying and her professional experience in Finance, Strategy, Analytics, and Program Management.

Mark has a bachelor’s in business management from Cornerstone University. He is also a graduate of the Grand Rapids School of the Bible and Music (GRSBM) Missionary Aviation Program 1988. Mark currently serves as the Director of Production at Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI (25 years). He serves on Short Term Missions Committee at Calvary Church. His mission trips include Japan, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Honduras, Cyprus, Greece, and 6 trips to Mozambique. His current hobbies include Boat camping, Show Skiing, Drone photography, and tinkering with Smart Home setups.