Contact Us

Richard Alexander - President

Richard Alexander is President of the Aero Club of BC. Since earning his Private Pilot Licence in 2002, he made Pitt Meadows Airport the home base for his first aircraft and spent much of his early flying career immersed in the airport environment, often joking it felt like he lived at his hangar. Over time, he became increasingly involved in the Aero Club, recognizing the broader community it serves. He now focuses on guiding the club’s direction and continuity, supporting connection between pilots and the wider community—from young children to the club’s most senior member at 97. His goal is to ensure the Aero Club of BC remains a fundamental part of Canada’s aviation future for another 110 years.

Stephan Drolet - Vice President

Stephan Drolet is Vice President of the Aero Club and Fire Chief with Pitt Meadows Fire and Rescue Service. He supports the club primarily behind the scenes, with a strong focus on safety and ensuring decisions are made with care and integrity. While operational demands often limit his attendance at meetings, he remains a steady presence within the organization and a key supporter of its direction. Known for his attention to detail and collaborative approach, Stephan is a valued part of the club’s leadership and a strong advocate for doing what is right.

Thomas Willms - Secretary

Thomas Willms began his aviation journey as a COPA Kid and later returned as a COPA Discover Aviation pilot, flying his own aircraft. His path through the program reflects a strong connection to the Aero Club’s mission to educate, enable, and inspire the community to achieve their dreams through a shared passion for aviation, along with a personal enjoyment of the energy and adventure of flying and connecting with fellow pilots. As Secretary, Thomas supports the club’s operations and contributes to its ongoing community engagement initiatives. He has continued his aviation journey while serving the club, working toward his Commercial Pilot Licence.

Dwayne Parrent - Treasurer

Dwayne Parrent, the club’s Treasurer, chose to pursue his pilot licence in retirement instead of a trip to Maui—and hasn’t looked back since. Referred by a friend, he connected with the Aero Club and joined a flight school on the field, completing his Private Pilot Licence and now working toward his Commercial Licence. An active member of the Fuel Team, Dwayne enjoys being part of the club’s day-to-day operations. He’s especially encouraged by the club’s strong team, growing membership, and lively clubhouse—the sense of fun and camaraderie is what keeps him energized.

Juan Carlos – Flying Wing Manager

Scuba diver, search and rescue volunteer, and private pilot, JC brings a hands-on, problem-solving approach to everything he does at the Aero Club. Through his active involvement, he’s developed a strong connection to general aviation and the club community. As Flying Wing Manager, he oversees the club’s aircraft, helping ensure safe, reliable access for members and maintaining one of the club’s key assets. He enjoys contributing to a collaborative environment and helping keep flying accessible for others.

Claudine Romani - Archives & Social Committee

Claudine Romani became involved with the Aero Club when she and Horst lived near Pitt Meadows Airport and were drawn to the activity and community they could see taking place. Over the years, she has developed a strong knowledge of the club’s history and serves as a Director with responsibility for archives. Claudine is also a dedicated supporter of the club’s social side, helping create welcoming events and enjoyable experiences for members. She is motivated by bringing people together and ensuring there’s always a good time to be shared at the club.

Horst Romani - Discover Aviation

Horst Romani is a long-time Aero Club member with over 20 years of involvement. A former pilot, aircraft owner, and operator, he brings a wealth of experience and perspective to the club. He has seen it evolve over the years and remains committed to its growth and improvement. Horst enjoys the fly-ins and strong community turnout, and through COPA Flight 16, has long supported Discover Aviation initiatives that help introduce the next generation to flying. Sharing his passion for aviation with young people brings back good memories of being invited by pilots as a child to sit in and touch an aircraft—an early experience that sparked an inspiration for flying that never left him.

Joleen Alexander - Membership 

Part of the Pitt Meadows aviation community since 2007, Joleen and her husband have flown out of Pitt Meadows Regional Airport as their home base for many years. She developed her passion for general aviation through the inspiring, knowledgeable people around her. With her two children growing up at the airport, she values the strong sense of community it offers. As a Director she now gives back by welcoming new members and engaging local youth through coordinating Discover Aviation.

Brent Hughes - Building Committee

Brent Hughes has been involved with the Aero Club of BC as a generous volunteer for over 30 years and serves as the Building Committee Lead. He is also one of the founders of the club’s fuel program and remains actively involved in its daily operations, supporting pilots at Pitt Meadows Airport and across the Lower Mainland. A key contributor to the club’s growth over many years, he brings deep operational knowledge and helps maintain a safe, welcoming environment for pilots, students, and visitors. Brent continues to consider the Aero Club a second home and remains dedicated to its long-term success.