Richard J Solan

Richard J Solan – Geer Board Member since 2021

Rick worked for American Airlines as a pilot for 36 years and became a Pilot Check Airman Instructor on the B-777 aircraft for 22 of those years. He helped write policies and procedures for the World’s largest airline and checked the Professional Standards and Proficiency of the pilots that flew planes worldwide.

Since 2004, Rick has owned the Great Barrington Airport in Great Barrington, MA. As President of Berkshire Aviation Enterprise LLC, he and his staff have rebuilt the airport to a premier Flight school and maintenance center, employing 14 people at the “Friendliest Airport in New England.” Today, he still teaches people of all ages how to fly. Since 2004 Berkshire Aviation has helped the local community with food drives, pancake breakfasts, and Fly-In’s to help raise funds for local scholarships and local charities.

Rick and his family have volunteered at Geer since the Nursing home opened in 1970 by giving tours as a Boy Scout. Rick’s Grandmother lived the last five years of her life at Geer with dignity and grace. His father Joe mowed the lawn at Geer for years after he retired from the State. His mother Teresa Volunteered until she turned 85. In 1985 Rick needed rehabilitation after an operation and after experiencing the care, he started volunteering again.

Mr. Solan has lived in North Canaan for his entire life and is honored to serve on the Geer Village Senior Community Board of Directors.

Rick started on the Geer Board in 2021 and is currently the Vice Chair. Rick participates on the Development-Communications and Quality Committees. Rick is committed to helping preserve Geer and making it the best Rehabilitation and Senior Community possible.