As a retired major airline pilot, Director Nelson brings with him a wealth of experience in the dynamic environment of aviation. Director Nelson is a former Assistant Chief Pilot, check airman, and training captain for a regional airline, with experience as a liaison between management and the pilot group.  He has worked with the FAA on safety-related issues, and as a member of the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), a volunteer group dispatched to assist and aid crew members.

Director Nelson holds a BA degree in Political Science from the University of California at Santa Barbara and an Air Transport Pilot’s license.  He graduated from Robert Louis Stevenson High School and has lived in Monterey County for over 24 years. Bilingual in Spanish, Director Nelson lives in Pacific Grove with his wife and their two sons.

Director Nelson’s two major initiatives include greater convenience for the traveler with a smaller carbon footprint for the environment.  He plans to achieve this by working with the FAA in creating a more fuel-efficient and effective landing approach system used by pilots during inclement weather and working with business leaders of Monterey County by responsibly increasing destination choices.

Outside of aviation, Director Nelson is a volunteer diver at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cub Scout leader, and PTA committee member. 

Elected to the Monterey Peninsula Airport District Board of Directors on November 2, 2010.