Mike Bauwens

Mike saw his first balloon in Sioux Falls, SD in 1975 as an OSHA Safety Engineer. He had been sent to Raven Industries to investigate sewing related injuries. That day his world changed forever.

Mike’s accomplishments include:
1977 – Received his Commercial “Balloon” certificate in Alaska
1981 – Left Alaska and started a passenger ride business in Steamboat Springs, CO
1981 – Ordered the first 211,000 cubic foot balloons in the US from Raven
1983 – Expanded ride operations to Park City, UT
1983 – Started FAA Balloon repair station KL6R669N
1989 – Started Part 141 Balloon School KL6S669N
1996 – Became a DPE for balloons

Mike has trained over 200 students and has more than 5,000 hours in balloons without any injuries. He has served as balloonmeister for numerous events and has competed at the national level for many years, managing to win the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in 2000 with a field of 1,100 pilots. Mike still loves to fly and his passion is adventure flying in the mountains.

 

 

 

View another speaker bio: Mike Bauwens, Emelia Bernava, Adam Magee, Bert Padelt, Carroll Teitsworth, Kay West