Steven Charles Goetz

Steven Charles Goetz is a distinguished aviation professional and FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Murphysboro, Illinois. Currently serving as an Associate Professor and the Chief Flight Instructor at Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale, Goetz has been a cornerstone of the institution’s School of Aviation since 2008. His academic background, which includes a Bachelor of Science from Truman State University and an Associate degree in Aviation Maintenance, allows him to integrate deep technical knowledge with high-level flight instruction and curriculum development.

With an extensive logbook and a comprehensive suite of certifications, Goetz holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and is a Gold Seal Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI). Uniquely, he is also a certificated Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic, providing him with a specialized understanding of aircraft systems that informs his safety-first approach to examining. As a DPE, he is authorized to conduct practical tests for a wide range of pilot certificates and ratings. His dedication to aviation safety is further evidenced by his research into pilot fatigue and his active involvement with the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam), where he mentors the next generation of professional aviators.