As wing Leader, I want to share an important change in how I’m organizing the work of the Inland Empire Wing. We need you! The Wing needs you ! I need you! I need your input. This is your opportunity to become an active volunteer with the IEW and I don’t want to waste your time as time is the most valuable thing we all have. I promise, if you volunteer for a committee, you will be heard and we will act together as a cohesive wing fulfilling our mission to: Honor, Inspire, Educate

To accomplish this, I’ve created a set of standing committees, and for each one I’ve set up a dedicated group on our website. The goal is to make it easier for you, our members, to get involved, and communicate without everything falling on just our leadership staff.

Why ?

The IEW works when more people are involved and contributing in areas you know and care about. Not everyone has the same availability or interests, and this structure allows you to participate in a way that fits your skills and schedule.

How the Committees Will Work

Each committee has its own group on the website where members can collaborate, share ideas, and work through issues. All committees will have a staff member assigned. Committees can meet virtually, which should make participation easier for you.

When I’m available, I’ll sit in on committee meetings to stay connected and help where I can, but the committees are expected to operate and move work forward on their own.

Each committee will provide monthly reports for the staff meeting. Those reports will be reviewed and acted on: approved, modified, or sent back for revision. Your work on this committee is vital and will not be disregarded.

Our Standing Committees

Operations & Aircraft Committee

Oversees aircraft status, scheduling, training pipelines, ground crew coordination, and operational or safety concerns related to flying activities.

Events & Programming Committee

Plans and reviews Wing events, public programs, and activities, including staffing models, event execution, and post-event lessons learned.

Finance & Revenue Committee

Focuses on financial health, budgeting, fundraising, revenue-generating activities, and high-level financial recommendations.

Membership, Volunteers & Culture Committee

Works on member engagement, volunteer participation, onboarding, recognition, and maintaining a positive and welcoming Wing culture.

Marketing, Communications & Outreach Committee

Manages public messaging, website content, email and social media communications, event promotion, and community outreach efforts.

Facilities & Compliance Committee

Oversees hangar and facility conditions, safety and compliance matters, inspections, risk management, and long-term facility planning.

Find the Right Committee for You

I encourage you, to take a look at these committees and think about where your experience or interests fit. These committees are not limited to staff. They are open to all members who want to contribute, learn, and help the Wing move forward to fulfill our mission.

Looking Ahead

As the year progresses, I see that committee participation will help identify our future wing leaders. It gives you experience working on real issues and helps ensure continuity as the Wing grows.

How to Get Involved

Visit the Groups section of the website, review the committee descriptions, and join the group that best matches your interests. Once you’re in, participate at whatever level you’re able. Any participation is better than no participation! So please take this opportunity and get involved with the wing.

If you’re unsure where you fit, feel free to reach out to me via email or phone and we can talk it through.

Thanks for being part of the Inland Empire Wing and for your continued involvement.

Gary Stark

Wing Leader, Inland Empire Wing