NEXT START DATE: July 6, 2026!

Instructor, Staff

Rich Flora

Director of Live Sound Engineering & Instructor


Rich Flora has lived all over the country to pursue his passions of audio and electronics. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, he got his start during high school while working for a regional company doing lighting and monitor mixing. This ignited his love for audio, and he hasn’t looked back since! After high school, he joined the Navy as an Electronics Tech and discovered his heart for live production. Since then, he has worked in some of his favorite cities, including Seattle, New Orleans, San Diego, and Orlando, before transitioning to Nashville around 30 years ago.

Throughout his career, Rich has been an audio engineer, lighting director, radio broadcast engineer, celebrity guest truck loader, and even an A/V Tech for a top-50 law firm. He’s gotten the opportunity to work with many bands, most notably Little Texas & Collin Ray during his 27 years at Clair Global. Rich joined The Blackbird Academy in 2019. When asked about his time at Blackbird, he said, “I have worked with some of the most passionate and knowledgeable people on all sides of the industry. Now, I get to share my passion and help light the fires for someone else’s dreams.”

Other team members

  • John McBride

    President, Institutional Director

  • Carma DiCianni

    Executive Director

  • Jeremy Cottrell

    Director of Studio Engineering & Instructor

  • Lucas Glenney-Tegtmeier

    Studio Engineer / Instructor

  • Lucien Patten

    Studio Engineer / Instructor

  • Blair Gallimore

    Human Resources Director / Account Manager

  • Amber Gray

    Career Services Manager

  • Rolff Zwiep

    Schedule Administrator—The Blackbird Academy / Blackbird Studio Manager