About Us

My Story

Ever since I was a kid, aviation has been a part of my life. I grew up surrounded by airplanes, helicopters, and airshows, always looking up at the sky, fascinated by everything that flew. But it wasn’t until I was 13 that I realized I could actually become a pilot myself.

For my 14th birthday, my dad surprised me with a discovery flight. Sitting in the cockpit for the first time, taking the controls, and seeing the world from above was the moment I knew flying wasn’t just something I admired anymore; it was what I wanted to do.

Then I learned what flight training actually costs. I was shocked. I started researching scholarships to help make my dream possible, but most of them were either statewide, nationwide, or geared toward people much older than me. There wasn’t much out there for students my age in Northeast Ohio who shared the same passion for aviation.

That’s when I decided to create something new a scholarship made by a local student, for local students. The goal is simple: to help young people in Northeast Ohio take their first steps into aviation, just like I did. Because everyone who dreams of flying deserves the chance to see what it feels like to take off.

Meet Our Board

Joey Sesock - founder and president

I am Joey Sesock, and I attend Highland High School. I’m actively involved in Civil Air Patrol, student council, and wrestling. I’m currently taking flight lessons and working toward my first solo. I’m also very involved with the MAPS Air Museum and the VFW, where I love being part of the aviation and veteran communities. I’m making it my mission to make flight more accessible for everyone especially young people who dream of flying but might not know where to start.

Crystal Sesock Jardine - Treasurer 1

My name is Crystal Sesock Jardine. I have a BA in Business/Accounting from Baldwin Wallace College and a Masters in Taxation from Weatherhead School of Management Case Western Reserve University and have been a business owner for over 20 years in Northeast Ohio. In the past, I have also sat on the board for other nonprofits like Operation Toy Soldier and Danny Dietz Memorial Fund.

I want to be involved in this nonprofit because I believe in inspiring the next generation to dream big and reach for the skies — literally. Aviation teaches discipline, confidence, and leadership, and giving teenagers access to flight training can change their entire future. Helping young people discover their potential through aviation is something I find deeply rewarding.

Adam Hoon - Secretary

I have been in education/coaching for over 20 years and have worked with young people all of my life. I enjoy seeing students go after their dreams & passions with relentless drive; and if I can be a small nudge behind them to help keep them going then I will do whatever I can to help.

Lacie O'Daire - Legal Advisor

I am a tax attorney with over two decades of experience creating and advising non-profit organizations. I have assisted many organizations, but seeing the drive and passion from a young person like Joey has inspired me to want to use my skills to assist this organization.

Ralph Consolo - Treasurer 2

With a strong operational background—serving as COO of Chardon Kitchen & Bath and managing manufacturing, production-scheduling and customer service through multiple leadership roles—I bring over two decades of experience optimizing business processes, building effective teams and driving growth. My track record in turning around operations and steering strategic initiatives gives me a unique vantage point for supporting organizations focused on real-world impact.

I’m passionate about supporting the mission of Wings Up NEO because its commitment to empowering individuals to achieve new heights resonates deeply with my belief in transforming potential into performance and making meaningful contributions beyond the bottom line.