​Owner, A&P IA, CFII

Christopher braun

Christopher, an EAA Lifetime member #808722, has been a pilot since 2000. He graduated from Vanderbilt University, with a B.S. in Economics, and New England Law with a J.D and worked in the FAA Regional Counsel's office and an aviation law firm for experience with the legal side of aviation. He then pursued a career in financial services with Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch and other companies, before starting his own financial firm. After growing the firm, he sold the company in 2014, and followed his dream of working in the aviation industry with the formation of Norcal Flight Center in 2015. His day to day activities are focused on the mechanical side of aviation, as he is responsible for maintaining the fleet, working on outside customer aircraft, as well as building United Magneto, Norcal's sister company specializing in magneto overhauls.

Maintenance Lead, A&P

Stephen smith

Being inspired at a young age by his family, Stephen has always had an interest in aviation, spending many hours on flight simulators at home. During high school, he volunteered his time with the local Civil Air Patrol squadron in Placerville, serving as the Aerospace Education Cadet NCO to inspire young aviators in his community. When looking for a career path, he turned to his passion for aviation, pursuing a career as an aircraft mechanic. He currently holds both an Airframe and Powerplant certification from the FAA. ​

Operations Manager

Conrad haeckl

Having been around tail wheel aircraft since a young age, Conrad has always been fascinated by aviation.  His uncle is a recreational bush pilot in Alaska and inspired him to become an aviator himself.  He became a student pilot with NorCal Flight Center in July of 2024 to pursue his Private Pilot's License and plans to become a Certified Flight Instructor with our school in the future.  Conrad has an Associate's degree for transfer from De Anza College, Cupertino and plans to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Natural Resource Management.  Outside of the cockpit, Conrad is an active outdoorsmen either mountain biking, fishing or camping and is passionate about enjoying and preserving the natural world.