Chief Pilot
WisDOT Bureau of Aeronautics
Zach Schabla joined the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) as chief pilot and aviation safety/pilot training program manager in February. On a daily basis Zach works with the FAA, airport managers, designated pilot examiners, as well as general aviation, State Patrol and BOA pilots.
Zach is responsible for the planning and coordination of flight instructor renewal courses, the annual Wisconsin IA mechanic seminar, and a variety of statewide general aviation safety seminars. He is a lead FAA safety team representative and conducts check flights and quarterly pilot meetings with Wisconsin State Patrol and BOA pilots. Zach is a regular pilot for the state’s photogrammetry program, performing aerial survey and photo missions. He is also responsible for flying bureau program and project managers to airports throughout the state for the purpose of conducting inspections and addressing airport needs.
Serving as an internal resource to BOA staff on aviation safety, he works alongside other pilots in the bureau to create flight standardization materials, presentations and other aids to flying safety.
In 2014, Zach earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Law Studies from Marquette University in Milwaukee. He also possesses an Associate Degree in Aeronautical Science, which he obtain from Fox Valley Technical College. Prior to joining WisDOT, he flew for GoJet Airlines and was based out of Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, flying the CRJ-700/900 for United Express and Delta Connection. During his college years, Zach worked as a flight instructor at Milwaukee Timmerman Airport. Zach holds an airline transport pilot certificate and is a CFI/CFII/MEI.
Zach is originally from Milwaukee and enjoys sports, outdoor activities and especially likes playing ice hockey. He enjoys writing and recording music and spending time with friends and family.
For any questions concerning flight safety at the Bureau of Aeronautics, please feel free to contact Zach at zach.schabla@dot.wi.gov or 608-266-7347.