Jo Schumacher

The RAF can’t say enough about Jo Schumacher and all she does for the organization.

“Jo works her fanny off at Sullivan Lake, Sun ‘n Fun and other events, helping “man” the booths, cooking for RAF crews, cleaning, and organizing,” says RAF’s Tricia McKenna. “She is just a great cheerleader, supporter, and hard worker. And just loads of fun!”


Jo’s volunteer work at the RAF follows a career of 21 years in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard that included duties as a heavy equipment operator, airplane crew chief, and mechanic on KC-135 tankers worldwide, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt prior to and during Desert Storm.


She is one of the lucky ones who can call two beautiful places home: growing up on the beaches in Southern California and in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. After getting off USAF active duty, she joined the Air National Guard and in her spare time, obtained her AA degree in Botany.


Jo’s love for aviation began when she was on active duty with the USAF and got a ride in the right seat of an O-2 (Cessna 337). She went on to obtain her private license. Over the years she’s logged 350 some hours, mostly in Cessna’s.


When she’s not involved in all things “air,” Jo spends her time gardening, quilting, camping, and hiking. She also enjoys photography and art.


We love Jo and appreciate all she does for the organization.


    Recent Posts

October 22, 2026
Our many RAF supporters have such vast and varied experience, and we’re capturing some of their words of wisdom to share with you. This guest editorial is by Cindy Cross, RAF VP of Appreciation.
October 21, 2026
The Beechcraft Heritage Museum at Tullahoma Regional Airport is the site of a new RAF Fire Hub, provided by an RAF grant submitted by Tennessee Ambassador Steve Lewis. The Parish family, who own the Beechcraft Museum, along with other RAF volunteers, contributed to the preparation and installation of the fire hub. They completed the project in time for folks to enjoy it during the annual Beech Party event over the October 10-11 weekend. The 20-foot diameter permanent concrete base was provided by a private donor. The fire ring and three 10-foot-long propeller blades were designed and fabricated by RAF Volunteer Pete Smith of Lewistown, Montana, with design assistance from Pete's son Matt Smith of Bozeman, Montana. The structure lies east of the 2,775-ft turf Parish Aerodrome runway adjacent to the Beechcraft Heritage Museum. “This permanent installation will showcase the RAF mission as the Museum draws visitors from around the country,” Lewis said. For more information on the airport, see the Airfield Guide . Submitted October 21, 2026
October 21, 2026
Michigan RAF volunteers had a very successful work party at Hanley Field (5Y7) in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula the October 10-11 weekend. Led by Michigan Ambassador Ryan Minnick, the crew, including Michigan Liaison Tanmoy Ganguly, cut and stacked firewood, repaired the sink and water heater, and relocated the airport sign along the road for better visibility. “We had a great weekend and got a good amount of work done. It was great connecting with supporters from the area,” Minnick said. “The assistant airport manager was there and was very happy with the results that came out of the work party.” Fourteen remained to camp Saturday night. Find more about Hanley Field in the Airfield Guide . Submitted October 21, 2026
By lellington • October 18, 2026
By lellington • October 18, 2026