MEET THE AUTHOR

Irwin Wenzel is a graduate from the State University of New York at New Paltz with a Bachelor’s degree in economics, originally from New York City, a second generation American whose grandparents immigrated from Eastern Europe at the beginning of the twentieth century.

While in college, Irwin founded, managed and coached the school’s first inter-collegiate ice hockey team. Upon graduating, he worked as a wholesale liquor salesman while attending flight school. In 1996, he became a full-time flight instructor at the Boca Aviation flight school, later promoted to chief pilot and director of flight training.

At the age of 39, Irwin was hired by American Eagle Airlines and in 2016, transferred to the mainline carrier, American Airlines where he currently flies the Boeing 737, based at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.

ON A PERSONAL NOTE

I call Delray Beach, Florida, home—often referred to as New York’s unofficial sixth borough.

I’m a lifelong hockey fan, loyal to my New York Rangers and, these days, also cheering on the two-time Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers. Hockey’s always been part of my life—on the ice, in the stands, and occasionally in scrimmages with retired NHL players at Celebrity Shinny League events.

I make a point to stay active. You’ll find me at the rink, in the gym, or walking the beach—whatever keeps me moving.

I’ve always had a soft spot for animals, and now that retirement has given me a little more flexibility, I’m looking forward to volunteering with local no-kill shelters and helping where I can.

And when I’m not doing any of that, I’m usually keeping an eye out for a good play, live music, or anything happening outdoors. Old habits from New York don’t disappear—they just relocate.

Life these days is a little more flexible, a little more intentional… and exactly where I want it to be.