A Commitment to Excellence – A Word From the JAFS Team
This year, we celebrated 40 incredible years of Jet Aviation Flight Services in the US. Behind these four decades of excellence is our team. We speak to some of them to find out more about their journey with JAFS, and take a look behind the scenes at the wide range of skills that support our customers.
Tom Taveroni, Director of Aircraft Transitions, Chicago
Joined Jet Aviation: 1990
“I joined Jet Aviation in 1990, beginning my career here as a Maintenance Coordinator. From day one, I was fortunate to be part of a company that offered one of the most comprehensive and rigorous training programs in the industry. As I grew in my role, I pursued my bachelor’s degree and eventually transitioned into management, ultimately becoming the Director of Aircraft Transition for Jet Aviation Flight Services. Looking back, it’s been quite a journey — one marked by continuous learning and a company that truly believed in my potential. Currently, I’m focused on Aircraft Conformity. Our team includes some of the industry’s top conformity experts — truly second to none. Each year, we manage the conformity of more than 40 aircraft, in addition to numerous pre-buy inspections and completion monitoring projects. We’re often one of the first touchpoints for our customers. It’s on us to ensure a strong and positive start to their experience with JAFS. It’s challenging work, but incredibly rewarding, and I’m proud of the high standards our team consistently upholds.”
Penny Stocksdale, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, Teterboro
Joined Jet Aviation: 2004
“I work in Talent Acquisition for Jet Aviation Staffing, specifically hiring crew positions for Jet Aviation Flight Services. Working with each client to understand the needs for their
operation is what I enjoy the most. The aircraft is an extension of their home and office and hiring the right crew is essential to safety and service on board. We collaborate every day with client directors, hiring managers, training, operations, and human resources. For new clients, when the crew is in place and those first flights are successful every department shares in those wins.”
David deBang, Senior Director Client Services, Teterboro
Joined Jet Aviation: 1996
“I joined Jet Aviation in 1996 and have been here ever since. I spent the first portion of my career in the Flight Operations Department ultimately attaining the position of Manager of International Flight Planning. Along the way, I began working directly with our customers. I started with one client, then added a second. In 2020, Leslie Cheshier offered me the opportunity to lead the department overseeing a team of twenty-five people as Senior Direct Client Services. I have now been leading this team for six years, and I will be celebrating thirty years with the company next May. In my role, I lead the Client Services Team, which is made up of fifteen Client Aviation Directors and ten Client Aviation Specialists. Together, we work with our customers to carefully curate their aircraft ownership experience. We operate in a high-profile environment — Manhattan’s skyline, and a clientele that drives many aspects touching the lives of countless people throughout the world. We are entrusted with facilitating safe and efficient transportation, enabling our clients to reach their destinations with confidence. This is combined with a team of incredibly passionate and talented people. It’s inspiring.”
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Dani Mickel, Director Inflight Services, Burbank
Joined Jet Aviation: 2016
“I joined JAFS through Avjet in 2016 — and in total I have been with the team for 25 years! Before moving into management, I was on the front-line, flying clients. I gradually worked my way up to supporting cabin attendants by training them and ensuring the experience we deliver meets Jet Aviation’s high standards, and today we support crew members and managers to exceed the expectations of the clients. At the same time, one of my main goals is to make things easier for our crew. When they have what they need and their job is simplified, they can confidently act as ambassadors for the brand driving excellence, strengthening client trust, and upholding the highest standards of service. The intimate customer experience is something I truly enjoy. We work closely with clients, and pay attention to every detail, no matter how small. It’s about customizing their journey to the fullest extent — down to the sheets on the bed and the temperature of their drink. This is the essence of the customer experience.”
Bella Bernard, Flight Management Representative, Scottsdale
Joined Jet Aviation: 2024
“Aviation has always been a significant part of my life, but stepping into my current role truly showed me how fulfilling it is to build and execute a trip from beginning to end. From the initial planning stages to wheels up, I enjoy bringing every detail together to ensure a smooth and successful operation. My goal is to create a seamless experience for our clients while providing consistent support to our crew, who rely on us as Flight Management Representatives. I serve as the primary liaison between the client and the crew, overseeing the entire process, from coordinating passenger preferences and departure details to notifying FBOs of aircraft arrivals and managing communication among all involved parties, including owners, executive assistants, crew members, and international planners. As I continue to grow in this field, I’ve learned that embracing change, doing what I love, and cultivating strong, lasting relationships are what open the door to long-term success. Aviation is an industry built on trust, precision, and people, and I am proud to play a role in keeping every mission running smoothly.”