Hello everyone. I figured it's about time I introduce myself. I'm Jason "Tadpole" Tepool. I know a few of you already from other forums and aviation adventures.
So why am I on this forum now? I'm going to be CubCrafters' new Customer Support Manager. I arrive in Yakima this coming Monday and start work the following Monday. I intend to have an active presence on this forum among other places and figured I'd take a moment to let you all know about me. I've very excited about this and am looking forward to working with all of you in the very near future.
I have a wife, a 4yr old daughter, and a baby boy on the way! I'm originally from southern Indiana, but I left there as soon as I turned 18 and went into the service.
I just recently retired from the US Air Force. I spent the first half of my career as a jet engine technician / aircraft mechanic. Then they decided they wanted me to run the USAF's Parachute Team for a few years. I finished my career as basically a First Sgt and leadership instructor for cadets at the USAF Academy. During my career I was stationed in Delaware, Alaska, South Carolina, and most recently Colorado.
Outside of the military I worked at skydive centers around the country. From mechanic, instructor, videographer, manager, you name...I did it. Most of that was during the 7 years I was stationed in Alaska, man I miss living there! That's how I ended up on the USAF Parachute Team.
I'm a pilot and A&P. Until this past Monday I owned a 1947 Stinson 108-2. It was a project that was nearing completion, but I decided to sell it as we discovered we'd walk away with very little cash selling our home. Getting a nice home for my family in Yakima is much more important right now, and there's always more planes and projects out there. Hopefully I'll find another one sooner than later .
So that's the quick version. Again, I'm very excited to be able to work with all of you, and am I'm anxious to get started. These past few months of retirement have been boring! Hopefully I'll be talking to you soon, and who knows, maybe I can meet many of you at fly-ins and shows around the country soon!