Meet the Team
​Meet the dedicated team at Boca Raton Flying Club, a group of passionate aviation professionals committed to providing exceptional flying experiences, expert instruction, and a welcoming community for pilots of all skill levels.
Victoria is a Certified Flight Instructor CFI, CFII, and MEI with a commercial multiengine license and over 1,000 flight hours. Currently completing her studies at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), she combines academic excellence with her passion for aviation. As the president of the Boca Raton Flying Club, Victoria enjoys fostering a welcoming environment, assisting members, and helping them achieve their flying goals.
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Fun Fact: Victoria can speak four languages
(Portuguese,Polish, Spanish, and English)
Rafael DaSilva
Rafael is our hardworking and passionate Vice President, bringing both aviation expertise and leadership to our club. Originally from Brazil, Rafael runs a successful painting company when he’s not in the skies. He holds certifications as a CFI, CFII, and MEI, and is especially knowledgeable when it comes to aircraft systems. Rafael plays a key role in helping us coordinate maintenance logistics, making sure everything runs smoothly and safely. His hands-on experience, business mindset, and dedication to aviation make him an incredible asset to our team.
Flying Club Safety Advisor
Alex Francis
Meet Alex, our dedicated Club Safety Advisor, who brings a wealth of experience and passion to the team. Born in New York City, Alex works overnights as an aircraft mechanic, ensuring that every aircraft he touches is safe and reliable. He’s also a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Instrument Instructor (CFII), sharing his knowledge and love for aviation—a passion he’s had since he was just four years old. When he’s not around airplanes, you’ll likely find him spending quality time with his family or enjoying a tomato like it’s an apple. His sharp eye for detail and calm, friendly attitude make him an essential part of our club.
Founder
Sterling Welch
Sterling Welch is the founder of the Boca Raton Flying Club and remains an active member today. A seasoned commercial and ATP-rated pilot with over 2,000 hours of flight time, he continues to balance his passion for general aviation with a thriving corporate aviation career. Sterling passed on the club presidency to focus more on his professional flying, where he has earned multiple type ratings including the Gulfstream G280, CJ3, Learjet, and several others. He is also a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI) and a licensed helicopter pilot, with a continued dedication to mentoring aviators and contributing to the flying community.