From 2001-2006, Nathan Tasker was the flight center director for the aviation department at Pacific Union College. Now, after 18 years of being away, he returns to his old job. 

Nathan was born in Hamilton, New Zealand, but calls the remote town Port Augusta in the deserts of South Australia the closest thing to his hometown since he lived there for a decade in his adult years. In 2000, he graduated with a B.T. in Aviation Flight and Maintenance from Andrews University and received an M.A. in Christian Apologetics in 2016 from Biola University. 

PUC is ecstatic to welcome back Nathan to campus and see him lead the aviation program. He kindly answered some questions for us to learn more about him. 

What made you interested in aviation? 

I grew up in the Solomon Islands as a missionary kid. I saw firsthand how a professional humanitarian airplane service on a schedule could transform an entire country. Before the airplane came to the island I lived on, it took days in boats and canoes to get there. It was difficult to get supplies and medical care. We had no telephone or radio and only occasionally had electricity. The airplane changed all that. 

Suddenly, we could break down barriers and cross boundaries- both political and social, as well as physical. We communicate with the outside world. When the national hero (aka the mission pilot) let me hold the controls of his Piper Aztec at the age of six, I was hooked! I, too, wanted to be a hero.

What work did you do before coming to PUC?

After ten years of teaching and administrative duties in aviation, I had a rewarding career as an aeromedical pilot (11 years) and, later, an airline pilot and simulator instructor on the Airbus 320/321 series. These jobs were interesting and fulfilling. I also had the chance to work as a youth pastor and spent two years working toward my PhD in Philosophy (but I haven’t had a chance to finish just yet).

What made you decide to accept this position?

A recent conversation with a mission pilot friend of mine alerted me to the desperate need for Christ-centered pilots in the field. At the same time, I could see new opportunities for the Adventist church to revisit some aviation policies, which would really improve our ability to serve in many countries. The domestic aviation industry has unique challenges, and I think we can try new things to revolutionize our technical and spiritual approach to excellence. 

I can only say that God placed it on my heart to return to PUC to try to make a difference. It’s not a logical career progression – but I am sure God is leading us.

What are you looking forward to bringing to the aviation department? What are your goals for the department?

The purpose of the aviation department is “To prepare Christ-centered pilots for lives of service.” My view of the geographical coordinates of the mission has expanded in the last 18 years since our first term at PUC. I know the domestic industry well enough to know we have a bigger job than I first realized. I want to see our aviation majors develop resilience, which, in my experience, is only ever possible in the context of a growing relationship with Jesus.

How can the PUC community support you?

Our college program will grow in strength with your key involvement in three areas:

1. We are looking for paths to grow in our “service to others” focus. We are looking for opportunities, coaches, and grass-roots support to help us practice and learn what it means to serve others. Fly-outs, Fly-ins, and community projects locally and remotely may be a good way forward. Please invite us to get involved in service to others.

2. Help us spread the word, get involved in community events, take an introductory flight in an aircraft, or try your hand at our simulator. We are looking for servant leaders.

3. We believe intercessory prayer is powerful. Please join us in prayer as we make some exciting changes to the program.

What would students be surprised to find out about you? 

My students may be surprised to hear that after leaving PUC, I had to work in a meat plant with plenty of blood. I do not believe there has ever been a career progression from this job to the famed Royal Flying Doctor Service. Then I went from PhD student, part-time youth pastor, and guest public evangelist to a small engine repair shop fixing chainsaws and lawn mowers before going straight into a job as an international airline pilot.

My students would likely doubt I have struggled with dark moments of weakness, discouragement, and failure. Between the amazing pinnacles of public success, we each take turns depending upon one another- and this makes us “real.” I have found that human strength and weakness are similarly inconsequential; what really counts is our relationship with Jesus Christ, who has been my one constant in adversity.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

I enjoy sharing my journey (lows and highs) with Jesus, reading and mulling over passages in the Bible, especially the first 39 books, with honorable mention for the Ezekiel text. Sailing, watching soaring birds, spending time with my family, talking to people about different worldviews, and delving deeply into the Adventist church and ancient secular history are dear to me.