EAA Chapter 75 Gathering - Mike Klemmensen, Director of Aviation at John Deere

Name: EAA Chapter 75 Gathering - Mike Klemmensen, Director of Aviation at John Deere
Start: 2026-01-24T08:30:00-06:00
End: 2026-01-24T11:00:00-06:00
Location: 9230 N Harrison St, Davenport, IA 52806, United States

Schedule

Sat Jan 24 2026 at 08:30 am to 11:00 am

UTC-06:00

Location

9230 N Harrison St, Davenport, IA 52806, United States | Davenport, IA

On January 24th, we are pleased to invite you to visit EAA Chapter 75, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in the Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois area. The chapter offers fun and educational aviation-related activities, as well as the opportunity to participate in the adventure and sheer joy of aviation.
Program & Speaker:
Early Life and Introduction to Aviation:
Mike Klemmensen’s lifelong passion for aviation traces back to his childhood, deeply influenced by his father’s own service and career. His father, a Vietnam veteran who served in the Air Force, worked as an aircraft mechanic and later started his own Fixed Based Operation (FBO). Growing up around airplanes and hearing stories of his father’s experiences, Mike developed an early fascination with aviation and the mechanics that keep aircraft flying safely.
Education and Academic Pursuits:
To further his interest and gain formal expertise, Mike attended Southern Illinois University, earning a degree in Aviation Management. His education provided a strong foundation in both the operational and business aspects of aviation, preparing him for a diverse career in the industry.
Professional Journey in Aviation:
Throughout his career, Mike has held a myriad of flying jobs and gained a wealth of experiences across different facets of aviation. His roles have spanned from pilot positions to leadership and management within aviation organizations. This varied background has not only expanded his technical expertise but also cultivated his understanding of the evolving landscape of aviation.
Today, Mike serves as the Director of Aviation at John Deere, where he oversees the company’s aviation operations. In addition to his leadership responsibilities, he is an international captain on the Gulfstream 600 aircraft, piloting advanced business jets across the globe.
Insights on Aviation and Leadership:
Mike’s journey through the aviation industry has given him unique perspectives on how the field has changed over time. He is well-positioned to discuss the evolution of aviation technology, safety standards, and operational practices. His career also highlights the importance of effective leadership, continuous learning, and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry.
Looking Ahead:
As a speaker and mentor, Mike Klemmensen shares his experiences to inspire future generations of aviation professionals. He emphasizes the value of learning from both the past and present, adapting to new challenges, and leading with integrity in every aspect of aviation.
Program Start Time and Location Information:
The presentation will begin at 9:30 AM during the chapter gathering event, located at Revv Aviation, 9230 North Harrison Street, Davenport, IA 52806. You can arrive early from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM to socialize, have coffee, and a donut. This program is one that you do not want to miss!