Meet Will Smith
Founder and CEO
of Will Smith Aviation
Based in Tampa
By Evan Parag
Ascend to your destination with ease onboard a Will Smith Aviation private charter. Captain Will Smith is the proud proprietor of Tampa Bay’s premier private jet source. Along with his business ventures throughout the years, Smith has always had a mission behind the vision. Giving back to those less fortunate within the community is an honor that Smith holds close to his heart.
Starting Will’s Way Foundation alongside his wife Ericka, and COO of Will Smith Aviation has been a huge catalyst in the businesses philanthropic efforts.
In our interview, Smith was eager to share the details of his 1st Inaugural Wings, Wheels, & Hearts Gala. He exclaimed “The event was held inside a hangar at Sheltair Aviation and boasted a luxurious atmosphere of jets and high end vehicles along with live music, drinks and an incredible dinner. An evening enjoyed amongst patrons emerged a success. Proceeds of auction and event went towards fully furnishing a families home who had a been devastated by the recent hurricanes.”
An author and mentor, Smith provides insight from his life to assist in the journey of those with a troubling past, yet who are looking for a successful future. Smith’s books shed light on his own trials and tribulations as well as how to overcome adversity, obtaining your dreams.
Boasting the roast, Smith also runs a coffee company called “Captain’s Blend” and is proud to offer something as bold and reliable as the pilots who inspired it.
Recently, Tampa Bay METRO caught up with Will to talk about business and charity work, possibility of expansion, and how he makes an impact beyond the local community.
METRO: What inspired your career in the aviation industry?
Captain Will Smith: I was driving home from my job at the time and saw a billboard that read “Find Your Freedom In Flight.” Discovered military experience wasn’t a necessary prerequisite and from then on, I worked at getting my pilot’s license.
METRO: How did you choose Tampa as the location to provide this service?
WS: Moving here in 1994, I always felt like Tampa was home. From restaurant management to pest control services, I had always had a business tied to the area. In 2010, I had gotten back into aviation with Beach Pilot Services evolving into Will Smith Aviation.
METRO: Are there any plans for expanding Will Smith Aviation?
WS: Yes, we have an opportunity to create a satellite location in Panama City to help serve clients in Southern United States. Places like Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. Stay tuned!
METRO: Your 1st inaugural Wings, Wheels, & Hearts fundraiser took flight. How did it go and where’s its impact felt? What made you start this charity?
WS: We started Will’s Way Foundation in 2021. The 1st Annual Wings, Wheels & Hearts Gala was a success! Set in a Sheltair hangar, the evening objective was to raise money while having an absolute blast. We did that and more. Side note: Also, We did just get back from a mission with Grey Bull Rescue to Haiti to pick up some orphaned girls to save them from the unthinkable.
METRO: Where’s your favorite place to unwind and enjoy Tampa?
WS: Anywhere that has peace and tranquility. Whether that’s unwinding at a waterfront restaurant or at a local golf course, not even a care about what’s on the score card. There’s something serene about meditating outdoors in Florida. M
For more information on Will Smith,
his foundation and how to get involved,
visit www.willsmithaviation.com.
