Mike Shrum became interested in ballooning in 1992 while residing in Longview, Texas. After moving back to New Mexico in 1995 to help with the family business,  he entered private ground school in October 1997. On February 28^th, 1998 he received his private Lighter Than Air free balloon license. In November 1997 he bought an Aerostar RX-7 that he flew until May 2000, when a 90,000 cubic foot Aerostar RX-8 was purchased.

In August 2001, La Ristra, the worlds largest Chili Ristra, was acquired by Mike and his wife Denise. The balloons are owned and operated by the Flying Chili Peppers Balloon Company, LLC in which Mike and Denise are the members. Mike earned his commercial rating in November 2002. His logbook has logged hours in 5 different types and sizes of balloons, and four different manufacturers. He works full time as a project manager for Smart Office Services, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  He is the founder and current organizer of the Socorro Balloon Rally held in November every year in Socorro, New Mexico where he and his wife reside.

Pilot Mike Shrum