Aviation Supplies and Academics, Inc.

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Creighton Merrill started Aviation Supplies and Academics, Inc. as Merrill Aviation in 1947. At that time, the training of post-war pilots was the company's primary goal. These pilots desired to work with the early civilian airlines. In 1960, the company sold its training aircraft and began concentration on "ground" training. Shortly thereafter the operation was expanded to include a retail pilot supply store.

In 1969, with the death of Creighton Merrill, the company became Northwest School of Aviation under a new owner, Roy Beech. the company's goal was the franchise of the popular Merrill Ground School under the name "Aviation Seminars of America"... or ASA.

In November 1976, Joe Cucchiari purchased the company. "Aviation Supplies and Academics" replaced Aviation Seminars of America as the name to go with the ASA acronym, and company goals were changed to include production of books, cassette ground school courses and training materials. The company was incorporated in 1977. In 1981, Joe Finelli joined the organization, bringing 20 years of experience in printing and publishing with him. Publishing has become the principle course the company has taken since that time.

In 1984, the sale of the ground school (Aviation Training and Research, Inc.) and the retail store (The Aviator's Store) allowed all efforts to be directed towards becoming a major supplier of pilot supplies and aviation related educational material in the United States. ASA moved to a larger quarters in Georgetown in 1985, and again to out present Newcastle location in 1990 to provide more warehouse and office space.

In 1986, upon the death of Joe Cucchiari, Joe Finelli became owner and president. Day-to-day operations were turned over to Mike Lorden, General Manager and Fred Boyns, Controller in 1993. Aviation Supplies and Academics, Inc. frequently does business now as "ASA" to simplify and represent the activities and nature of our business. ASA is the leading publisher of aviation books and the largest producer of pilot supplies in the United States today.

In 2004, Mike Lorden took over as Vice President and General Manager.