The Hi-Lite Academy’s Purpose
To train and develop experts in airfield pavement markings and preservation in accordance with airport specifications, ensuring the safety of air travel.
The Hi-Lite Academy’s Mission
To enrich each student’s life through focused skills training, fostering both teamwork and individual growth.
Meet Hi-Lite's Training Staff
Hi-Lite’s trainers have a collective 40 years of experience in the application and specifications of airfield safety markings. Our training is based on actual experience that sets the standard for performance quality, engagement, and respect in the airport industry.
Tanya Rarick
VP of Safety and Training
Tanya brings over 17 years of experience in the airfield pavement markings industry and more than 31 years in Continuous Improvement. She specializes in supply chain management, JIT processes, Lean methodologies, Kaizen events, and SOP development. Tanya is pursuing a Six Sigma Black Belt and has completed advanced leadership training, underscoring her commitment to operational excellence and team growth.
Seamus Van Tassel
Training Supervisor
Seamus has over 11 years of experience in airfield markings, with a strong understanding of airport specifications and industry best practices. He is highly skilled in equipment maintenance, repair, and innovation, continually improving tools for airfield applications. Seamus is currently pursuing a Six Sigma Black Belt to further enhance training quality and operational efficiency.
Dave Jones
Waterblaster Trainer
Dave has over 25 years of experience in waterblasting, with expertise across highway and airfield pavement markings. He possesses deep knowledge of high-pressure waterblasting equipment, including operation, maintenance, and optimization. His hands-on expertise ensures safety, precision, and quality in every project.
Kim Patton
Safety Manager
Kim brings 13 years of airfield safety experience and has served as an OSHA Training Instructor for eight years. Before entering aviation, she was a Sheriff’s Sergeant and Training Officer with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office. She later advanced safety programs at Raytheon, as well as in manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, before joining Hi-Lite Airfield Services in 2021 to return to her passion in airside safety.