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Born in 1972, Oliver was educated at Nottingham High School, where he was a member of the RAF section of the CCF. He gained both an RAF Sixth Form Scholarship and an RAF Flying Scholarship, but despite reserved entry into the RAF, he instead opted to read Mechanical Engineering at Coventry University.
At university, Oliver was an active member of the University of Birmingham Air Squadron, where he flew the Bulldog. After graduating, Oliver worked as a Design Engineer on military and civil gas turbine engine test beds for Rolls Royce. Whilst the work was fascinating, sadly the pay was not, so he soon moved into the IT industry, developing Internet solutions.
In 1999 Oliver moved to London to start a new career in Product Management for a US-based telecoms company. He still lives in London and now works for a blue-chip global communications company based in The City.
Oliver completed his Private Pilots Licence in the mid-90s and flew ex-RAF Bulldog aircraft for a number of years In 2001 he joined a syndicate at North Weald airfield operating two ex-RAF Jet Provost aircraft. Having amassed a wealth of experience in the JP, Oliver is now training for a Display Authorisation to demonstrate the JP3.
In 2008 Oliver joined the Gnat Display Team as Manager of Ground Operations (aka “The Chief”), supporting the display pilots and aircraft at all of the events the team displays at. The role has also afforded him the unique opportunity of a fast jet conversion course and to become a qualified pilot on the Gnat.
Worst Aviation Moment:
Engine failure whilst flying at low-level in a single-engine fast jet.
Best Aviation Moment:
First Solo in the Folland Gnat earlier in 2009. Truly a sport of kings!
Other interesting facts:
When not flying or on tour with the Gnat Display Team, Oliver can be found either on a squash court or in The Rockies satisfying his passion for snow boarding.
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