About the Founder, Sal Miwa

Born and raised in Japan, Sal grew up with a dream of becoming a pilot. After graduating from high school, he moved to the United States—a global center for aviation—to pursue that ambition. He began his training at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, where he earned his private pilot license. Over time, his interests shifted from flying aircraft to designing them, leading him to pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering and later a master’s in aerospace engineering from MIT in 1981.

Following the graduation, he spent several months in Tokyo before relocating to the New York metropolitan area in 1982. There, he engaged in a wide range of entrepreneurial and leadership roles across diverse industries, including computer equipment distribution, optoelectronics and vision systems, tuna fishing and export, plastic injection molding, cattle ranching, real estate, online services, composite decking manufacturing, wood kiln manufacturing, chemical production, and aviation services such as jet charter and air ambulance operations. He also served as chairman of a NASDAQ-listed company and led one firm through a public offering.

In late 2011, Sal moved to Hawaii, where he played a key role in turning around a real estate company while becoming actively engaged in community and civic efforts. He went on to serve as Chairman of the Japan-America Society of Hawaii for three years and as Chairman of the Pacific Air Forces Civilian Advisory Council for five years. In 2025, he was nominated by the Commander of Pacific Air Forces and appointed by the U.S. Secretary of the Air Force as one of the Air & Space Forces Civic Leaders.

One of the most notable experiences during this period occurred in 2016, when he was asked by the Consul General of Japan to assist in organizing a welcoming reception for Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during his visit to meet with President Obama. Held at the Hawaii Convention Center, the event brought together more than 1,000 Japanese Americans in a meaningful celebration of U.S.-Japan relations.

Experienced in but not limited to the following services and sectors. Contact for a full list.

• Affiliations: - Japan-America Society of Hawaii (Chairperson 2016~2018, Director 2013~) - Pacific Air Forices Civilian Advisory Council (Chairperson 2021~2023, Co-Chair 2024~) - Ukulele Foundation of Hawaii (President 2023, Director 2020~) - Department of Air & Space Forces Civil Leader (2025 ~) Degrees: - Science Master Degree in Aero & Astro Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Bachelor of Science Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL License: - Private Pilot License - Single Engine Land (1976)