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Michelle Marie Petrina is a highly experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Whitefish, Montana, serving the Helena FSDO region. With a career spanning decades in the aviation industry, she has established herself as a cornerstone of the Montana flight training community. Holding an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and designated as a Gold Seal Flight Instructor, Petrina possesses a deep mastery of complex mountain flying environments and general aviation operations. Her background includes extensive time in both single and multi-engine aircraft, contributing to a robust foundation of practical and theoretical knowledge that she brings to every evaluation.
Throughout her career, Michelle has logged thousands of flight hours, with a significant portion dedicated to instruction and evaluation. As a DPE, she specializes in conducting practical tests for Private, Commercial, and Instrument ratings, as well as Flight Instructor certifications. Known for her thorough yet fair examination style, she emphasizes a rigorous safety mindset and sound aeronautical decision-making. Her transition from a professional educator to a federal representative reflects her commitment to maintaining high regulatory standards. Prior to her full-time focus on examiner duties, she built a reputation for excellence in backcountry aviation, ensuring the next generation of pilots is prepared for the unique challenges of the Rocky Mountain region.