William Stone

William "Bill" Stone is a distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and the President of Venture North Aviation, based at the Cloquet Carlton County Airport (KCOQ) in Minnesota. With an aviation career spanning several decades, Stone has become a leading figure in the Midwest for professional pilot certifications and accelerated flight training. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and is an extensively rated instructor, including CFI, CFII, and MEII designations, with a specialized focus on seaplane operations and technically advanced aircraft (TAA).

Beyond his role as an examiner, Stone serves as an FAA Safety Representative, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to risk management and situational awareness. He is well-known for his philosophy that modern piloting is an exercise in managing automation, a mindset he instills in every candidate during practical exams. With thousands of hours of flight experience and a background in running successful aviation businesses, Stone provides a thorough, fair, and professional checkride experience. His expertise in instrument ratings and multi-engine commercial certifications has made him a vital resource for aspiring professional pilots throughout the Great Lakes region.