Meet the Team

Founder

Mackenzie Reed

My 2024 flight journey:

Before aviation, I served as a police officer. That experience shaped the way I lead today - with discipline, accountability, and high standards.

I traveled the country in my flight training, throughout this, I quickly saw the gaps in traditional training. Some schools offered structure but lacked flexibility. Others offered freedom but lacked consistency. Students were either micromanaged or left to figure things out on their own.

I created Base 2 Final Aviation to bridge that gap - a structured Part 61 program that blends the organization of a 141 school with the flexibility and real-world practicality of 61 training - all while being highly cost effective.

Waypoint / Fleet and Business Development

David Neel

David is a co-owner of Waypoint Equipment, the supporting partner behind Base 2 Final's training fleet. He makes sure students have well-maintained aircraft with upgraded avionics, ready when they are.

David's aviation career began at Palestine Municipal Airport in 2000, where he worked to support his flight training while still in high school. There he worked through 9/11, served as vice commander of the local Civil Air Patrol squadron, and joined the Space Shuttle Columbia recovery effort before moving on to Flightstar Aeromotive at Addison.

He then spent 20 years in the insurance industry, where he co-founded a software company serving insurers that he and his partners sold in 2025. Now back in aviation full time, David leads fleet and business development for Base 2 Final. His focus is keeping aircraft flying, keeping downtime low, and planning the school's growth at McKinney National Airport.

Waypoint / Business Strategy & Consulting

Joe Fernandez

Joe is a co-owner of Waypoint Equipment, the supporting partner behind Base 2 Final's training fleet. He brings the perspective of an airline transport pilot and business leader to the school's growth.

A pilot since 1998 and an aircraft owner nearly as long, Joe holds an ATP certificate with type ratings in Gulfstream, Citation, Hawker, and L-39 aircraft. He is a part-time Gulfstream G450 instructor for CAE. He also owns an L-39 jet that he uses for upset prevention and recovery training and type training. Over many years with Civil Air Patrol, he served as Director of Operations for the Texas Wing.

Joe spent two decades in the insurance industry as CEO of a software company, which he and his partners sold in 2025 to start Waypoint. Today he supports Base 2 Final with strategic planning and consulting, helping the school grow while staying true to its standards

Assistant Chief / Multi Engine Instructor

Donald Locke

I enjoy working with students and helping them get comfortable and confident in the airplane. 
Outside of flying, I like working out, watching movies, and anything aviation-related. I spent a year living in Minnesota and enjoy moving to new places on my own and figuring things out as I go. I have a pretty go-with-the-flow lifestyle and like to keep things simple.

Flight Instructor

Jacqueline Stratton

Aviation has been part of my life since I was a kid, and it’s what led me to start flying myself in 2020. As an instructor, I strive to create a learning environment where students can work through challenges and build confidence in the airplane.

Outside of flying, I enjoy spending time with friends and family.

Flight Instructor

Blake Cox

I started flying in June 2022 and have been a Certified Flight Instructor for a little over 2 years.  My love for flying started after college working boring office jobs that weren’t as fulfilling.  Best part of flight instruction is seeing how happy a checkride pass makes your student with your help.

My worst day flying is still better than my best day doing any other job.

When I’m not flying, I’m enjoying hanging out with my girlfriend and dog somewhere outside staying active.

Instructor / Multi Engine Instructor

Conner Leon

I am a dedicated flight instructor with a passion for aviation and student success, I strive to create a supportive learning environment that builds confidence and strong decision making skills.

Outside of flying I enjoy practicing/competing in Jiu Jitsu as well as listening to music and spending time with friends.

Flight Instructor

Marcus Cooper

My mission is to promote true student understanding by breaking down complex aviation concepts into clear, practical knowledge. I am committed to helping each student build confidence, sound judgment, and a strong foundation for safe flight. My goal  to ensure every learner fully understands the “why” behind the “what” in aviation

Flight Instructor

Ethan Burfitt

My love for aviation started when I was young, attending airshows as I grew up. After not enjoying the monotony of college, I pursued the passion I’d always dreamt of. Becoming a flight instructor has taught me both practical skills in life, as well as technical skills that will serve dividends throughout my career.

One goal of mine is to ensure that every student learns, but also enjoys the process of becoming the pilot they dreamt of being. In my spare time, I enjoy attending car shows with friends, skiing, and experiencing new countries.

Dispatch / Flight Instructor

Lorien Rhoads

I get the amazing privilege of taking my students aviation dreams and turning them into a reality. Teaching is my greatest honor and I am excited to pass along my knowledge and experience to the next generation of pilots.

In my free time when I’m not flying I like to garden and spend time with my family and four cats.