From Classroom to Cockpit: The Story of How Holly Peters became a Flight Instructor

By Kymesha Atwood

“I woke up one day and decided that I wanted to be a pilot.”

Holly Peters, a student at Lone Star College-Conroe Center, had never ridden in an airplane until the age of 16. But one fateful day, she woke up with a profound realization – she wanted to become a pilot. Intrigued by her story, I set out to learn more.

Q. What inspired Holly to pursue aviation through Lone Star College’s Professional Pilot Program in Conroe, Texas?

A. Holly Peters always felt a deep calling to soar through the skies. Despite lacking any prior experience in aviation, she was resolute in her pursuit of her passion for flying. Her journey began at 16 when she took her first flight. At the age of 19, she eagerly enrolled in the Lone Star College-Conroe Center’s Professional Pilot Program, embarking on intensive training in both flying techniques and academic education. Through this program, she acquired knowledge in aircraft operations, navigation, aerodynamics, and safety protocols. Holly’s commitment and hard work shone as she overcame numerous challenges along the way. Diligently, she obtained the necessary licenses, amassing over 350 hours of hands-on training and ultimately graduating with her CFI and CFII.

Q. How did Lone Star College - Professional Pilot Program contribute to Holly’s aviation journey?

A. The Lone Star College-Conroe Center played a pivotal role in Holly’s aviation odyssey by providing her with a supportive and nurturing environment. While pursuing her dream of becoming an airline pilot, she thrived in the program, benefiting from intensive training and firsthand pilot education. Holly also found unwavering support from her loved ones and the Lone Star College-Conroe Center community. Completing the Lone Star College - Professional Pilot Program became a cornerstone of her aviation journey. She remains steadfast in her pursuit and advises newcomers in the field to lean on the support of friends and family.

Q. What does Holly’s life look like now after completing the Lone Star College - Professional Pilot Program and earning her AAS?

A. After achieving her CFI and CFII qualifications, Holly was offered a teaching position with the US Aviation Academy. Presently, she serves as an instructor at their Lone Star College Hangar, located at 10078 Airport Rd, Conroe, TX 77303, as part of their partnership program with Lone Star College. This unique program provides flight training for the Professional Pilot Program, offering ground and simulator classes taught by LSC faculty at the LSC-Conroe Center and flight classes led by certified flight instructors from the U.S. Aviation Group at the Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport.

"If it was easy, everyone would be doing it." -Bob Parsons

Q. What are some accomplishments and neat experiences from Holly’s aviation journey she would like to share?

A. Starting the program was a significant accomplishment for Holly, as it required pushing through when the going got tough. While her journey in aviation was challenging, Holly was able to overcome all obstacles that ultimately led to her most notable achievement of graduating and completing the program. Along the way, Holly had the opportunity to take her parents flying for the first time, and she felt proud to embrace her success with them alongside her. Additionally, Holly was also thrilled to teach her sister her first flying lesson, sharing her passion for flying while helping her sibling reach new heights, reflecting on her own current pursuit of her career. For Holly, these were some of the best experiences during her aviation journey.

Q. What does Holly hope to do in the future to inspire aviators like herself who have no prior experience or friends and family members to look up to for aviation?

A. Holly, as an aviator who understands the challenges of entering aviation without prior experience, aspires to inspire others in the future. She aims to share her experiences and the valuable lessons she has learned to encourage aspiring aviators who may not have friends or family members to look up to in their pursuit of aviation. Holly firmly believes that the journey to becoming a pilot can be arduous, but it’s an integral part of the process. If individuals have a genuine passion for aviation, she encourages them to pursue it despite the difficulties. Holly hopes to mentor and empower future aviators, guiding them to achieve their dreams through hard work, perseverance, and determination. She knows that success in aviation is attainable for anyone willing to put in the effort.

Holly Peters’ story is one of perseverance, determination, and unwavering passion. She is living proof that with hard work and resilience, any dream can be achieved. From a nervous teen on her first plane ride to a certified flight instructor, Holly’s journey is inspiring and humbling. She emphasizes the importance of having a support system and believing in oneself, even when the path may seem challenging. Holly hopes to continue to inspire others to pursue their dreams and achieve success, just as she has. As Holly takes her place in the cockpit, it is clear that the sky is not the limit for her, but rather the launching pad for her boundless potential.