I am, as all other builders are, an avid aviation enthusiast. My interest began when my dad began flying general aviation in the late 60's. We attended Oshkosh '71 and I was hooked. The experience ultimately led me to the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department at NC State University.

My path to a pilot's license involved many skips and starts beginning in 1975 and culminating in my checkride in 2005. It was an incredible feeling of accomplishment and relief to finish something that was outstanding for a big part of my life. I urge anyone that is in the same situation to get on with it. Life is too short. Since then, I have obtained my Instrument Ticket. Whew! that was a hard course. I was "walkin' on sunshine" during the flight back from the sucessful checkride. Some new flying friends from Asheville took me out for a beer and aviation talk that night. Good times. Thanks fella's.

Within a year after my PPL checkride, my wife and I decided to build an airplane. To be sure, this was a communal decision. I am lucky that she is embracing my aviation hobby. She loves to fly, so the decision was easy.

I am getting assistance from other "builders" following:

Diane was helping out by being simply the "banker" in the early stages. While she is continuing in this role, a ride in a friends RV-6, accomplished a major change. The first words after the canopy raised were "What are you doing here? Get home and start riveting!" Well, Diane has learned to wield the gun for sure.

As with my mom, Diane is a seamstress extraordinaire. The interior RV-7 accoutrements will not be a problem.

Nate has taken a keen interest in the project. He is scheduled to ship off to the Navy to begin a career in aircraft maintenance in March 2006.

Jake helps when he is here. He has been away from the house for a majority of the project. He is applying his woodworking skills (which are respectable) at a company in Raleigh, somewhat near my parents place.

Dad began flying in the late 60's and also had (has) an interest in building. At that time, planes of interest were the Dyke Delta and Thorp T-18. We went to Oshkosh mant times in the 70's and 80's. I rekindled his interest with a trip in 2005. We camped at Scholler. It was an excellent time.
I was lucky to have his help in the early part of the project, his 30 years of collecting aircraft stuff and the many conversations about electrical systems (his expertise). Unfortunately, he passed away in 2007 before this project was finished.

Y'know, mom always helps, whatever the endeavor. Deburring etc. She is excellent at sewing crafts. Her current interest is weaving. There is a weaving shop in our home town that gives classes and practice sessions on the looms. She came up for one week long session and I am looking forward to a repeat.