Unmatched Experience.
Undivided Attention.
At West Elk, we blend acute market insight with a family office ethos—personalized, selective, and aligned with your values.
With a boutique, client-focused approach rooted in trust, transparency, and long-term relationships, we offer guidance in buying, selling, operating, and sourcing aircraft.
Whether you’re upgrading a fleet or entering private aviation for the first time, we navigate the complexities with discretion, precision, and the judgment of a trusted advisor.
Aviation Advisory. Intelligent. Intentional.
We advise with clarity, act with purpose, and lead with precision—resulting in client success.
Troy Lawson
Partner
With 25 years of leadership in aircraft sales, operations, and aviation department management, Troy brings deep operational expertise to client engagements. His 20-year Air Force career, logging 7,500 hours as Enlisted Aircrew, instilled a disciplined, outcome-driven approach to complex aviation operations.
Nearly two decades in OEM sales and marketing of both new and pre-owned aircraft provide Troy with rare insight into both the transactional and ownership sides of the business. His ability to integrate technical, financial, and operational considerations allows him to advise clients across the full lifecycle of aircraft ownership—from initial acquisition through long-term ownership and fleet transition.
Troy's experience spans both corporate platforms and bespoke ownership structures, providing clients with nuanced, market-savvy guidance. As an IADA Certified Aircraft Broker and Duncan Aviation Advisory Board member, he leverages a robust industry network and real-time market fluency to protect client interests at every stage.
Jonathan Gardner
Principal, Markets & Strategy
Jonathan brings over 15 years of experience in business aviation, with a background that spans aircraft brokerage, fleet planning, and strategic market intelligence. His work with top-tier brokerage firms and OEM-aligned organizations has shaped a data-driven, advisory-first approach grounded in market depth and operational awareness.
At West Elk, Jonathan leads valuation, market research, and client strategy—delivering precise pricing guidance, forward-looking market insights, and disciplined analysis built to withstand institutional scrutiny. He supports clients through complex transactions, portfolio management, and long-term capital planning.
Respected for his responsiveness, clarity, and discretion, Jonathan serves both private and institutional clients as a trusted long-term advisor. His ability to translate shifting market signals into clear, actionable strategies ensures every client decision meets West Elk’s standards for rigor and results.
