Estrella WarBirds Museum

Director

Michael Levine was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. He subsequently traveled and lived in Europe, Asia and throughout the United States before moving to Paso Robles in 2009.

You may have met Michael if you took one of the FA-18 flight simulator rides in Freedom Hall. What you probably did not know about him is his background.

He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a BS in Psychology in 1974, then continued his education with the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine where he received his DMD in 1978. He then moved on to Ohio State University / Columbus Children's Hospital where he completed his Pediatric Dentistry Residency in 1983. In the meantime, with not enough time on his hands, he joined the U.S. Navy. His naval career spanned 32 years and retired as a Navy Commander in 2001. Dr. Levine worked as Senior Scientist on projects for the Navy Surgeon General supporting Marines deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, while working with the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for Advancement of Military Medicine until 2007. He then served as a Field Medical Reviewer with Outcomes Health Information Solutions until 2010.

Michael became involved with the Estrella Warbirds Museum shortly after moving to Paso Robles. His love for all things aviation led him to volunteer as a museum docent and as an FA/18 flight simulator operator. He still finds free time to be actively involved with Guide Dogs for the Blind and The Cancer Support Community. He has a keen interest in photography, golf and travel (especially cruises).

In 2011, Michael achieved a life-long dream by earning his Private Pilot Certification. He recently noted "I love the Central Coast of California and hope to stay here indefinitely...but, I'll always be a Steelers fan!"