Eric Earles – President
Eric is a Memphis native who always wanted to fly. Eric attended college at Christian Brothers University. During his last semester of college, he decided to take the plunge and get his pilots license. In December of 2017 he finally achieved the dream, receiving his private pilot’s license. Eric is looking to add other ratings such as his instrument rating so he can more effectively transport animals.
Eric has a deep love for dogs and will often walk unreasonably far out of his way just to pet a dog. Eric’s passion for aviation continues to his full-time position at a local jet charter company.
K9 Air Rescue is perfect aggregation of his interests and skills. Eric was brought into the world of aviation dog rescue by Chris, and has been flying dogs ever since. Eric sees K9 Air Rescue as an opportunity to extend his reach and help many more animals get to their forever homes.
Chris Hilty- Founder
Chris Hilty had always wanted to fly and in 2012 was able to finally pursue that dream. Since then, he has flown over 500 hours, added multiple ratings and works part-time as a CFI in addition to his day job as a pharmacy manager. He has flown a handful of Angel Flight missions and completed several volunteer flights for rescue organizations, helping to save over 100 animals.
He got involved with K9 Air Rescue out of a desire to more efficiently help animals in need and better utilize donations. He resides in Memphis, TN with his wife and two rescue dogs.
Jeremy West- Founder
Jeremy’s support for our cause started at the age of 11 when he and his sister adopted their first puppy — Oreo Cookie West — early in 2001 from a kill shelter in Huntsville, AL. Although having a dog was exciting, Jeremy notes that this experience was one of his earliest lessons in responsibility and accountability.
Oreo quickly became a faithful companion and a member of the family as she always had her own holiday meals like everyone else. Oreo lived a long life, passing away at the age of 16 in 2017. It was this love that gave Jeremy so much enthusiasm for being a part of, and helping K9 Air Rescue.
Professionally, as a strategic planner and thought leader, Jeremy has guided the successful launch and growth of multiple businesses and social benefit organizations. Jeremy and Eric Earles met in Memphis, TN as members of TeamBolo Car Club. Eric invited Jeremy to be a co-founder of K9 Air after witnessing Jeremy lead the club’s transition into a nonprofit organization and obtain its 501(c)(3) status to support car owners in the greater Memphis, TN area. Jeremy will utilize his expertise in nonprofit administration to help drive our cause forward.
