Molly Springs

Executive Director – COO

Molly Springs serves as the Executive Director of United Carolinas Cavalry, leading the organization’s mission to support communities across the Carolinas before, during, and after disaster. Her connection to UCC began during the Hurricane Helene Airlift Relief effort at the Statesville Airport, an experience that deeply shaped her commitment to service and community resilience.

For more than a decade, Molly has practiced law in North Carolina as the owner and Managing Partner of Springs Law Firm, where she has advocated for accident and injury victims during some of their most challenging moments. Her work with UCC rekindled a renewed sense of purpose, inspiring her to help build an organization rooted in compassion, collaboration and neighbor-to-neighbor support.

Molly lives in Mooresville, North Carolina with her husband and three children. She enjoys traveling, riding her motorcycle and serving alongside the growing Cavalry as they work to strengthen and uplift communities across the region.

Joel Amick

Managing Director – CIO

Joel Amick is a visionary leader with a passion for service. With over 20 years in the Financial Services sector, Joel spearheaded Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Fortune 100 companies, driving innovation and risk mitigation.

After a successful corporate career, Joel retired to focus on philanthropy, co-founding United Carolinas Cavalry, a nonprofit dedicated to rapid disaster relief in North and South Carolina. Leveraging his leadership skills, he mobilizes resources and volunteers to aid communities impacted by natural disasters.

A leader with both business acumen and a deep sense of compassion, Joel continues to bridge innovation and humanitarian aid, ensuring communities in crisis receive the support they need. As a helicopter pilot himself, Joel was instrumental in getting supplies to where they needed to go

Dr Craig McCotter

Dr Craig McCotter joined the Board of Directors of United Carolinas Calvary shortly after Hurricane Helen rescue efforts. He is a helicopter pilot and helped fly missions along with helping to coordinate other relief efforts. 

I addition to being a helicopter pilot, Dr. McCotter is a practicing cardiologists and electrophysiologist. He has a passion for helping others and serving the community. Being part of United Carolinas Calvary has allowed him to combine many of his passions in one organizations. 

Dr. McCotter lives outside of Wilmington on a working farm and nature preserve. He enjoys boating, fishing and flying along the beautiful Carolina Coast. 

Craig J. McCotter, M.D., F.A.C.C, F.H.R.S 

Erik Schonher

Erik Schonher brings over 20 years of executive leadership to United Carolinas Cavalry, specializing in the intersection of operational strategy and mission-driven growth. Throughout his career, Erik has been a builder of sustainable programs and a navigator of complex organizational challenges—skills vital to UCC’s rapid-response environment.

Before joining the Cavalry, Erik served as Director of Strategy and Innovation at the American Society of Transplant Surgeons. His experience managing high-stakes logistics and strategic planning ensures that UCC’s mission—“Land, Sea, or Air: We Get There”—is backed by rigorous execution and measurable impact.

Erik’s background includes senior leadership roles at the National Society of Professional Engineers and the Humane Society of the United States. With an MBA from Pace University and a deep commitment to community, Erik is dedicated to ensuring UCC remains a resilient, well-fueled lifeline for the Carolinas.