In Silicon Valley, innovation doesn’t always start in boardrooms or tech campuses. Sometimes, it begins in hangars, workshops, and conversations between people who believe deeply in community, connection, and building something meaningful together.
That belief is what brought Jeff, founder of NoCal Aviation, and Jake Tital, a heart-centered entrepreneur and lifelong connector, together to create Stratus Collaborations—a new kind of networking experience designed to bring founders and funders together in a way that feels human, memorable, and local.
From Hangars to High-Growth Ideas
Jeff’s journey started in aviation. While attending San Jose State University in the aviation operations program, he pursued his dream of becoming an airline pilot, earning his private and instrument pilot licenses while still in college. Along the way, he volunteered at a maintenance facility—not for pay, but to better understand the mechanics behind the machines he flew.
That curiosity changed everything.
As Jeff learned more about aviation, he realized that the airline lifestyle wasn’t aligned with the future he wanted. He valued being home, building a family, and creating something lasting. After graduating, he transitioned into aircraft maintenance full-time, eventually opening NoCal Aviation, which now services privately owned propeller aircraft across the Bay Area.
Today, NoCal Aviation employs a growing team and specializes in annual inspections, engine work, avionics installs, and full-service aircraft maintenance. While the business thrives, Jeff found himself increasingly drawn to a new challenge: building connections beyond aviation.
A Connector’s Path Through Startups and Self-Growth
Jake Tital’s path took a different—but complementary—route. A heart-centered entrepreneur since 2005, Jake built and exited businesses across multiple industries, including marketing, energy, Bitcoin education, and cannabis. Along the way, he developed a reputation as a “super connector”—someone who brings the right people together at the right time.
After years in the startup world and a deep focus on personal development, Jake shifted toward creating experiences rather than just companies. When a mutual connection introduced him to Jeff, the alignment was immediate.
Both had seen the same pattern repeatedly: founders searching for capital, investors searching for meaningful opportunities, and communities lacking a space where those conversations could happen organically.
The Birth of Stratus Collaborations
Stratus Collaborations was born from that shared insight.
Rather than creating another traditional networking mixer, Jeff and Jake envisioned an experience—one that blends innovation, culture, and community. The result is a curated event series designed to connect founders and funders while showcasing the creativity and energy of the South Bay.
The events feature:
- Startup and investor networking
- AI-focused conversations and innovation themes
- Live music and entertainment
- Exotic cars and private aircraft on display
- Optional airplane rides offering aerial views of Silicon Valley
The upcoming event is expected to draw between 175 and 300 attendees and is part of a six-event series planned over this year, with future themes expanding into real estate, technology, and regional innovation.
Why It Matters to the Community
At its core, Stratus Collaborations reflects the same values that power small businesses everywhere: relationships, trust, and shared growth.
Jeff brings the operational discipline and local roots of a successful small business owner. Jake brings the vision, storytelling, and connector mindset shaped by years in startups and entrepreneurship. Together, they’re creating a platform that doesn’t just spotlight innovation—but invites the community into it.
Their long-term vision includes scaling the Stratus Collaborations model to other cities, while keeping its community-first DNA intact.
Looking Ahead
With growing interest from sponsors, founders, investors, and even local leadership focused on expanding AI initiatives in the South Bay, Stratus Collaborations is quickly becoming more than an event—it’s becoming a movement.
For small business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike, it’s a reminder that the future of innovation isn’t just about technology. It’s about people coming together, sharing ideas, and building something bigger than themselves.
And sometimes, it all starts with a conversation.
Event Details:
Event: Stratus Collaborations – AI Founders & Funders Night
Where: South Bay / Silicon Valley
When: January, 29th, 2026 | 6PM to 1030PM Pst
Where to Buy Ticket: Eventbrite
Who Should Attend:
- Startup founders
- AI builders
- Angel investors & VCs
- Operators & community leaders
What Makes It Different:
- Live band 🎶
- Exotic cars + aircraft showcase ✈️🚗
- Optional airplane rides over Silicon Valley
- AI-focused conversations, not awkward mixers
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