Antonio Velardo
Born in Naples, Italy, in 1977, Antonio Velardo dreamed of traveling around the world once he completed his high school studies. But as opposed to being a mere tourist, like many other teenagers, Velardo envisioned learning how to fly, so he could transport himself to far-flung destinations.
Learning to FlyAt the age of 19, Velardo took a leap of faith and moved to Florida to get his FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) commercial pilot’s license. After a few years, he completed courses at the Phoenix East Aviation School in Daytona Beach and received his multi-engine instrumental commercial pilot’s license. Following this certification, he returned to Europe to enroll at the Capua Aeroschool in Italy to upgrade his license for certification by the JAA (Joint Aviation Authorities), a European regulatory body.
Once he accomplished this, Velardo began living the dreams of his youth, flying around the world as a commercial pilot, residing in numerous foreign countries, and experiencing diverse cultures “in search of answers,” as he put it.
After much reflection, Velardo realized that despite his love of flying, the lifestyle of a pilot didn’t satisfy him; in fact, flying was what was keeping him from truly “spreading his wings” and establishing a spiritually rewarding career.
Back to SchoolOnce he had this epiphany, Velardo went back to school — this time to Loughborough University in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, graduating from his school with top honors. But Velardo didn’t become a civil engineer; instead, he followed his heart and went into the real estate business.
Learning to FlyAt the age of 19, Velardo took a leap of faith and moved to Florida to get his FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) commercial pilot’s license. After a few years, he completed courses at the Phoenix East Aviation School in Daytona Beach and received his multi-engine instrumental commercial pilot’s license. Following this certification, he returned to Europe to enroll at the Capua Aeroschool in Italy to upgrade his license for certification by the JAA (Joint Aviation Authorities), a European regulatory body.
Once he accomplished this, Velardo began living the dreams of his youth, flying around the world as a commercial pilot, residing in numerous foreign countries, and experiencing diverse cultures “in search of answers,” as he put it.
After much reflection, Velardo realized that despite his love of flying, the lifestyle of a pilot didn’t satisfy him; in fact, flying was what was keeping him from truly “spreading his wings” and establishing a spiritually rewarding career.
Back to SchoolOnce he had this epiphany, Velardo went back to school — this time to Loughborough University in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, graduating from his school with top honors. But Velardo didn’t become a civil engineer; instead, he followed his heart and went into the real estate business.