Kirk Shoemaker
- Year you started skydiving: 1999
- Total number of jumps: 6600
- Licenses / ratings: A, B, C, D, coach and tandem instructor rating, S&TA
- First canopy → current canopy: Sabre 150, Crossfire 2 119
- Role at Skydive Windy City: Operations Manager, Tandem Instructor
What got you into skydiving?
A co-worker came to work one day and asked if I wanted to skydive.
Do you remember your first jump?
I do. There was a 6 hour static line class before the jump so when it was finally time to get in the plane I was ready.
When did you realize this was more than just a hobby?
After the first jump I knew I’d be back.
What keeps you coming back?
The vibe, the lifestyle and the sensation of falling (flying).
Funniest thing that’s happened while skydiving?
Filming a friends naked jump, stuff doesn’t look too good going that fast.
Favorite type of jump?
Sit fly and belly jumps.
What would you be doing if you weren’t skydiving?
Probably stuck in some office or factory wishing something exciting would happen.
What separates a good instructor from a great one?
The ability to read the situation, the people and making sure you stay calm and always practice your EPs.
What’s the biggest lesson skydiving has taught you?
The ground does not move and is very hard.
FROM THE SKY TO THE CREW
Who’s the most chaotic person on the team?
This is forever changing…day by by…hour by hour…we’re skydivers.
Most unforgettable jump you’ve ever done?
Jumping over the Palm in Dubai.
What do you love most about jumping at Skydive Windy City?
The proximity to the lake creating one of the best views for any dropzone.
Why He Loves What He Does
What makes this dropzone special?
The crew, the view and the amazing people that come to visit.
What do you enjoy most about working with first-time jumpers here?
I get to show them the most amazing thing you can do. I like showing people why the birds sing.
What’s your biggest “this is why I love this job” moment?
Taking the most nervous, scared people and talking them into actually jumping and having them thank me afterward.
WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE SKYDIVE WINDY CITY
At Skydive Windy City, it’s more than just the jump, it’s the people who make the experience unforgettable. From experienced instructors like Kirk to the entire crew on the ground, every member of the team is committed to making your first jump safe, exciting, and something you’ll never forget.
Whether you’re planning your first tandem skydive near Chicago or coming back for another jump, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. When you’re ready to take the leap, there’s no better place to start than Skydive Windy City.