AviNation Magazine Winter 2023

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Winter 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS

By Nick Poucher

About AviNation

AviNation exists to attract, educate and empower youth in aerospace. AviNation magazine strives to give readers insight into the future by focusing on students, programs, events and innovative approaches to the promotion and continued growth of the industry.

Staff & Contributors

Publisher: Jacob Peed

Copy Editors: Nancy Nwelati Coll and Vicky Rink

Design & Production:

Barb Stuve, Lime Valley Mankato, MN

Business Development:

Thomas W. Flavin

Phone: (310) 709-0844

E-mail: Tom-flavin@roadrunner.com

Correspondence

Editorial submissions and other correspondence

E-mail: jppeed@gmail.com

Phone: (515) 408-3763 www.avinationusa.com

Advertising

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Contributing Writers

Austin Banttari

Ava Rian Shelly

Capt. Nathan Maki

Connor Lane

Darrion Flunder-Jenkins

Dr. Scott Firsing

Emily Daniel

Grayson Ardies

Jamie Beckett

Jeffery Howard

Jim Faix

Larae Stotts

Nancy Nwelati Coll

Nick Poucher

Madyson Schulze

Tom Flavin

Victoria Neuville

Thank you to our Cornerstone Supporter

Aero Club to NOAA: Davis

Benningfield

Former Lakeland Aero Club member, Davis Benningfield, will be commissioning into the NOAA corps as a pilot. Davis has been a member of the Lakeland Aero Club since 2014 and was a recipient of the James C. Ray flight training scholarship. He was able to solo at 16 and earn his private pilot certificate at 17. During his time with the Aero Club, Davis participated in many trips, including flying a Cub from Florida to Oshkosh. After high school, Davis graduated from the University of North Florida in 2020 with a degree in mechanical engineering. Following his studies at UNF, Davis was accepted into the NOAA Basic Officer Training class. Once graduated, Davis will begin multi-engine flight training in February, eventually flying a Twin Otter.

My Testimony of Flight Academy

By Connor Lane

One day, I was notified by my mother of a flight academy program that was being offered on social media by the Air Force. I was in a Navy JROTC program, but it made no difference during the selection process. I had never heard of a program like this before, so I was intrigued. I thought that my school administration would post something, but they didn’t. So, I applied for this program and talked to Chief Goldstrom, amazed with this very competitive program. I continued to study hard, knowing that no one, to my knowledge, out of my local area had been selected for a prestigious program such as this. Around 2 months passed, when I received an email stating that I was selected! I was absolutely ecstatic of the news and told my entire family, along with my NJROTC instructor, Commander Kast, who wrote a letter to my principal. It was very groundbreaking news for the community; I was put on our school’s TV that broadcasts news to anyone who looks at it. I was then told by my principal that I was going to be recognized by the Harrison County Board of Education. When I got to the Board of Education, I shook the Vice President’s hand, was awarded a certificate of achievement, and had my picture taken. The next day, I was on the front of the local paper and included on some social media sites, which made me feel as if I was a celebrity. At this point, I realized how high-speed the program is.

June 4th was the day we arrived on campus to begin our training. We unpacked and gathered our gear to begin studying for the next day. In the morning, we were introduced to how the program was going to work and who our instructors were. Once we were introduced to the staff, we were issued books, a headset, a logbook and a flight bag. Without hesitation, we were assigned with our instructor to learn how to preflight an airplane through the checklist and what each part of the airplane is called. I was told to read about the first flight that I was scheduled to take the next day. This was such a shock to me as it was only the third day at the academy, and I was already in an airplane, learning how to fly. I flew at 0800 hours, so I was one of the first ones to fly. During takeoff roll, I had a grin that grew from ear to ear the further I got off the ground. It was amazing to feel the sensation of flying when we lifted off the ground that I had been planted to for 18 years. Once I got back to the ground, my instructor told me to study for the next lesson and the lesson after that as

we always want to stay ahead because of the weather. We flew everyday, and studied everyday, waking up at 0530, and going to bed at 2300. We got to the hangar at 0730, and left at 2000. Sleep wasn’t hard to worry about as I was too busy to worry about being tired; but, when I did sit down somewhere alone, it was hard to keep my eyes open. Everyday was something new. It would be a new flight maneuver or environment to fly into, such as the nighttime sky, the most stressful but also the coolest part of flying, in my opinion. I was always studying to get a great grade on the written exam, which was the next big goal. So, I studied every day, taking lots of practice tests daily, always trying to get at least an 85% score. Less than that would not be good enough.

Eventually, the day came for us to take our test. With all the studying I gained, in the back of my mind, I knew I only had one shot to take the test. If I failed, I wouldn’t graduate in time. As you can tell, I did not fail. I got an 88% on my written exam, and I was very happy about that score.

Now, the ultimate goal of the course is to pass the check-ride, be proficient in the plane, and pass the oral exam. At Fairmont, we trained harder than the check-ride would be, so that the exam would be a cakewalk. The check ride was nerve-racking, but with all my training, it all came together. I calmed down, and just did what I was trained to do: be a safe, professional pilot representing the academy and everyone at the program. Once I landed after the check ride, it felt sensational! It was an honor to shake the Designated Pilot Examiner’s hand, and to hear him tell me that I was a certified Private Pilot. What a journey! I can hardly describe it on a piece of paper.

CENTRAL FLORIDA’S NEW HIGH SCHOOL

Located at Winter Haven Regional Airport, Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Winter Haven is a new careerand-technical academy opening this fall. This four-year program partners with organizations within the local and national aerospace communities to add to the bounty of resources that allow students to reach new heights. This academy, which is part of Winter Haven High School, features its own campus, instructors, and curriculum.

Many in aviation may know of Central Florida as an aviation hot spot – being the home of Fantasy of Flight, Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base, and most notably, the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo. Those in attendance of Sun ‘n Fun may have had the opportunity to tour Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Lakeland. This school, which has had proven success for over a decade, now serves as a blueprint for its fledgling counterpart on the east side of the school district.

What is unique about both of these programs is that they are physically located at airports. “Being at the airport puts you closer to opportunities for experience and learning,” said James Vanvakas, a senior who is attending Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Winter Haven this fall. James, 17, is currently gaining hands-on experience towards his Airframe and Powerplant Certificates. Notably, the airport is an environment that fosters growth. “Physically being at the airport during a school day is better,” James continued.

While the location of the school brings students geographically closer to opportunities for learning, there is something to be said for the motivational mindset that it brings to students. Yerlenis Camacho, another senior in the program, is studying Aerospace Sciences towards her goal of flying for American Airlines. One of her biggest draws to the program was how much more involved the school would allow her to be in the local aviation community. She states how the programs open access to education, community, knowledge, and opportunities. “You have to take advantage of it,” Yerlenis shared.

The idea of school being a place where you learn things is a valid one, but a school becomes far more effective in impacting a community or industry when it also serves the purpose of acting as a beacon of inspiration for its students. Brian Hughes, the Director of the Aerospace

program for Winter Haven High School, is proud to facilitate the expansion of these opportunities to the eastern side of the school district.

“With Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Lakeland located on the far-west side of the school district, bringing a similar program to Winter Haven is a step in the right direction to provide an equitable experience for students in the eastern part of the district.”

Serving in the High School’s administration for over a decade, Brian Hughes is no stranger to education in Winter Haven. A few years ago, community members approached the school to establish an aerospace program. Having heard of the opportunity, and having an interest in aviation, it didn’t take long for Brian to say, “I’m in”. Stepping out of administration and back into the classroom, Brian began teaching the Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association’s (AOPA) High School STEM Curriculum as an elective course.

Expecting only 20-25 students in the first year of the course, it came as a surprise to all involved when over 150 students signed up for the class. With a proven concept within the Winter Haven community in hand, Brian and members of the local community began to pitch the idea of establishing an academy at the Winter Haven airport, like the program in neighboring Lakeland. To get the academy up and running, support was needed from all angles of the community. Alas, in 2022, the Polk County School Board, the City of Winter Haven, and the Winter Haven Regional Airport came together to establish the Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Winter Haven.

Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Winter Haven uses AOPA’s High School STEM Curriculum to teach the classes. The curriculum is a turnkey, fully-accredited program that AOPA offers to school districts and educators at no cost. The program has seen widespread success – implemented in hundreds of public, private, and charter schools in both urban and rural areas of the country. Winter Haven’s program will be utilizing all four years of the curriculum. The first year of the program educates students on the history of flight and the fundamentals of flight. By the completion of the curriculum in the fourth year, students will be prepared for the FAA written tests, complete an encompassing capstone project, and look decades into the future of the

By Austin Banttari

industry to what is in store. The curriculum also offers opportunities for students to explore the world of Unmanned Aerial Systems.

While the program’s primary focus is on aerospace sciences, which tend to best fit the career path of being a pilot, Brian hopes to expand the academy’s offerings to engineering, aircraft maintenance, avionics, and more. Though, he notes that the addition of many of these programs will come with the growth of the academy.

Currently, the academy is a collection of portable buildings on the south side of the field. Long-term expansion plans include the construction of a permanent, state-of-the-art building located on the airport’s property. “The airport has plenty of property on which a building could be constructed, an idea that falls in line with the airport’s future plans,” Brian stated, with the airport supporting the academy’s construction (in any degree) from the beginning.

One of the keys to growth for the academy comes from maintaining a strong relationship with its community. Most notable for the program is the Aspiring Aviator’s Aero Club (AAAC). Located next door to the academy, the AAAC is a high school flying club that has been around since 2020. Many of the academy’s students, such as James and Yerlenis, are also members of the neighboring aero club. The club, which is currently restoring a few aircraft so that students can have access to low-cost flight training, has a symbiotic relationship with the high school. While the high school can offer a well-rounded and accredited education, the aero club can provide hands-on experience and serve as a hotspot for the social community surrounding the academy.

Just as the high school, the AAAC is very modest in its facilities. While the passion and support exists for both programs, they face constraints in the same areas: facilities and finances. Brian, who is also the Vice President of Aspiring Aviators, mentioned how a new hangar and monetary support would allow the club to grow and better support the same students who attend the academy.

Central Florida has become a national hot spot and model for aerospace education – even more so with the opening of Central Florida Aerospace Academy of Winter Haven. The region’s success seems to come from the openness and willingness of different agencies, organizations, and individuals to work together towards a common goal: preparing the next generation of aviators for flight. Beyond the enrichment of the local community, these programs have international effects, producing students that go on to work for major airlines, serve in the military, and give back to their communities. It seems like Central Florida has it going on!

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Louisiana: Where Aerospace Careers Take Flight

Louisiana is a place where young aviation aficionados and aspiring astronauts can learn to reach for the stars.

Home to NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility, the state has highereducation programs at universities and technical colleges designed to help prepare students for a variety of aviation and aerospace careers, from aircraft maintenance to engineering and aerospace manufacturing.

Louisiana’s ambitions took off more than 60 years ago, starting with the 1961 debut of Michoud. Fondly known as “America’s Rocket Factory,” employees at Michoud assembled the booster stage of the Saturn V rocket for Apollo 11, the spaceflight that first landed humans on the moon.

Six decades later, Michoud continues to make groundbreaking contributions to America’s space program, notably with the Space Launch System being built for Artemis, named after Greek mythology’s sister to Apollo. Artemis missions will attempt to bring the first women and the first person of color to the moon by 2024, and eventually, to the surface of Mars.

Today, Louisiana’s aviation and aerospace industry includes more than 30 companies and employs more than 6,500 people. Jobs range from aerospace engineering to helicopter and aircraft “completions,” an industry term for outfitting an aircraft with VIP luxury interior, or one customized for medical transport, law enforcement and more.

Young people who are considering aviation and aerospace professions can choose from a range of degree and certificate programs that will begin the process of putting childhood dreams of flight and space exploration onto a post-high school professional career path.

Nunez Community College, for example, provides students with the opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in the field of Aerospace Manufacturing Technology. The college’s Aerospace Technology Manufacturing program provides classroom and hands-on training, allowing students to develop skills to become aerospace manufacturing technicians.

CLAIMING THEIR PLACE IN AEROSPACE: Students enrolled in Nunez Community College's Aerospace Manufacturing Technology program tour the Michoud Assembly Facility.

The M.J. Foster Promise Program

The M.J. Foster Promise Program provides financial assistance to eligible Louisiana residents (21 years or older) to earn credentials that align to high-demand jobs in growing industry sectors, such as construction, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and transportation, logistics and aviation. Including these programs:

• Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew

• Aviation/Airway Management and Operations

• Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician

• Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician

https://mylosfa.la.gov/students-parents/scholarships-grants/mjfoster/

At four locations in Louisiana (Shreveport, Lake Charles, Lafayette and Baton Rouge), the state offers career education programs that prepare students to pursue certification in Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance and eventually perform scheduled aircraft maintenance, make repairs and conduct Federal Aviation Administration inspections.

And of course, if you’re not sure yet what direction you want to take your career, a number of Louisiana’s universities, including Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge), the University of New Orleans, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Louisiana Tech and Southern University (Baton Rouge), have science and engineering degree programs that can build a solid foundation for future aviation or aerospace pursuits.

Louisiana, with its variety of aviation and aerospace companies and education offerings, is one of the best places on earth to transform a passion for flight into a future that soars.

View the list at https://av-info.faa.gov/RepairStation.asp

AVIATRIX PIONEER: Wally Funk

By Scott Firsing

his Blue Origin New Shepard Rocket. The rocket, lifting-off from the Texan desert, traveled at almost three times the speed of sound and reached a height of nearly 62 miles above the Earth’s surface.

“It was my highlight, you know. I always wanted to go into space,” Wally told me.

If you are looking for inspiration, Wally Funk is your woman. A female aviation pioneer and commercial astronaut who knew she could do anything she wanted to, Wally has lived a remarkable life.

Born in 1939, Wally’s accolades and achievements have continuously piled up. She was ahead of her time in almost everything that she did. The full-length memoir of Wally’s life, entitled Higher, Faster, Longer is highly recommended. However, to point out some of her career and personal highlights: she was the first female air safety inspector for the NTSB;first female FAA inspector; the oldest person to go to space, at the time, on July 20, 2021 at the age of 82; and had over 20,000 flight hours, helping train thousands of pilots.

I had the pleasure and privilege of spending a few hours with the aviation legend in her Dallas area home in September 2022.

WALLY’S DREAM OF SPACE

Wally’s house is filled with accolades and gifts from almost every organization you can think of.

I asked Wally, while admiring the almost endless memorabilia, “With all of this, does anything stand out? Top of your list? Icing on the cake?”

“Of course,” Wally said, “Going into space!”

In 1961, Wally was among a group of female pilots testing whether women were fit for space travel. The group, known as the Mercury 13, passed many of the same tests as the men. Wally was third best, but the program was canceled.

Sixty years later, in 2021, Wally achieved her dream, traveling into space with Amazon’s Jeff Bezos onboard

While at her home, Wally made us recreate the moment Bezos visited her in her home and asked her to go to space with him. “Scott, stand here. Jeff stood right there, in that very spot, and asked me, ‘Wally, do you want to go to Space with me?’ I was so excited! I grabbed him and gave him a great big hug!” Wally gave me the same giant hug and started to giggle. “Scott, you know what? Jeff has no butt.” I joined in on the laughter. “No, I did not know that Wally!” She went on to applaud the Blue Origin team and how soft the landing was. It was very much apparent and encapsulating to witness Wally’s passion for aerospace, aviation and teaching.

WALLY’S PASSIONS

When asking Wally about how she got into aviation, she explained that it just came to her. Wally pointed out a black-and-white picture of a cute toddler next to the DC-3 landing gear.

“That was me at Taos Airport. Something came over me, the spirit of the mountain, to go over to that plane and check the lugnuts on the wheel.” It never stopped from there; Wally started to build model airplanes and ships. She also enjoyed her guns and skiing. She spoke

about her hitting bullseyes in rifle shooting competitions as a teenager and winning a Distinguished Rifleman’s Award. At the same time, Wally represented the southwestern United States as a Top Female Skier in Slalom and Downhill races in USA competition.

Although starting to fly at the age of nine, it was at the age of 16 when she started flying at Stephen’s College in Missouri, graduating in 1958 with an Associate of Arts degree. As one might expect, she rated first in her class of 24 flyers. Wally would go on to receive her Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education and earned her Commercial, Single-engine Land, Multi-engine Land, Single-engine Sea, Instrument, Flight instructors’ and all Ground Instructor’s ratings at Oklahoma State University (OSU). Wally was elected as an officer of the famous Flying Aggies at that time and flew for OSU in the International Collegiate Air Meets.

“Your parents must have been proud!”I blurted out when Wally was telling me these stories. “Oh,my mom was. She was a great woman.” said Wally.

To the parents reading this, Wally spoke very highly of her mother, Virginia Funk, as well as the influence she had on her life. When Wally signed the cover of my copy of her memoir for me, she wrote on the book’s dedication page: “She was great”.

The dedication reads: “To my mother, Virginia Shy Funk. She was a kind and gentle mother, a model of politeness and positivity. She encouraged my curiosity and accepted my interests in traditionally male activities despite her own genteel upbringing. When I was a child, I learned from her example of helping others through community activities. When I became an adult, she happily shared my more adventurous activities. Thank you, Little Momma.”

GIVING BACK AND WALLY’S ADVICE

“Teaching people how to fly has been a big part of my life,” said Wally, who has trained thousands of pilots throughout her career.

Wally frequently mentioned her students during the few hours we spent together. She spoke about working with groups like the Women’s Ninety-Nines and Women in Aviation.

You can sense her love for community, whether it’s aviation or the local pancake house where Wally and I shared a late breakfast. “Wally!” the one waitress

screamed as we entered the restaurant. Everyone knew Wally there, and the staff were very welcoming. It was clear she was a part of her local community, and that it is important to her.

Sitting at her favorite table, Wally spoke about the importance of looking and being professional. “I have taught at a lot of American flight schools. I remember one school had great individuals, but many looked sloppy and didn’t have much pride. I made all the staff clean up and wear their flight uniforms, and you could almost immediately feel the positive difference in the atmosphere.”

Some of Wally’s best, most inspiring advice for future pilots and their parents: “Just do it! If you are interested in aviation, and your parents are, you get them to take you out to the airport,” Wally tells the youth.

“Whatever it is in life, you must do it,” says Wally. “Don’t just think about it, do it.”

YOUR FLIGHT PLAN TO THE FUTURE

With an eye to the future, Auburn University’s School of Aviation is preparing aviation leaders who will shape the next century of flight. Auburn’s aviation program consists of two degrees:

Professional Flight Aviation Management

This all started back in 2015. Two members of EAA Chapter 180 were having lunch after flying Young Eagles one Saturday. The conversation went something like this, “So…when we’re done flying Young Eagles, these kids just go home and do whatever kids do on Saturdays. What are we doing to keep them at the airport and interested in aviation?” I’m sure the answer wasn’t immediate, but it got the gears moving in their heads. Eventually, the answer came. “Let’s build an airplane.” And a plan was hatched (pun not intended).

These two guys, Ric Romanoff and Martin Sobel, pooled their money, got a few more interested pilots to do the same, and purchased a partially assembled Van’s RV-12 ULS. They formed Teen Aircraft Factory of Manasota, Inc., and knowing they wanted kids to be involved in building the plane, eventually became a 501c3 in 2016. After purchasing the plane, it was transported to a T-hangar at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. Our Young Eagles kids were initially used to build the plane with several adults acting as mentors during the assembly.

As we got to know the kids, we found that many of them were from the poorer section of town, socially, educationally, or economically challenged. These were the at-risk kids. This became the premise and focal point from this point forward.

You might be asking “what is an at-risk kid?” We have a broad definition of what we consider ‘at-risk’. It’s more of “we know it when we see it”. We have had kids from broken families (mom and dad are divorced), kids with learning disabilities, kids who have one parent severely disabled, deaf kids, English as a second language kids, kids who were born in the US, but the parents were not, kids who may have had a brush with the law, or got in trouble at school, and we even have kids with normal backgrounds. Lately, we found that at least one of our kids comes hungry, so we started buying breakfast bars and feeding the group, not to single out one individual. We made it known to the parents and the kids that this is a safe place for all of them.

It took nearly three years-worth of Saturdays to complete that first plane. But the plane was just the byproduct. The transformation of the young builders became more apparent as they learned to read the plans, work with tools, and build a flying airplane with their own two hands while learning STEM skills that would have otherwise gone undiscovered. There was a tremendous feeling of accomplishment. During the build, they also learned ‘life skills’ such as, showing up, being on-time, working for the entire session, and putting your cell phone down.

Over time, we bought bright colored t-shirts for our participants. For some, it meant new school clothes and they were very happy. But then, something else happened. A little transformation. The t-shirts became team uniforms. They started acting as a team. Collaborating with each other and their adult mentors, the work became more efficient and more fun. They couldn’t wait for Saturdays to arrive.

FACTORY OF MANASOTA

When a plane is completed, we have a big celebration. A picnic is held for all the builders, parents and siblings with hamburgers, hotdogs, drinks, and chips being served. Best of all, every kid who helped, gets a ride in the airplane that they built. We even invite the local TV station to do a story on the event. This has been our tradition for each plane that is finished. We are currently working on our fourth and fifth airplanes in two T-hangars.

We approached the body shop teacher at the local community college to have his body shop students paint the airplane. He brought the entire class to our hangar. They walked around it, looking it over from spinner to tail, wing tip to wing tip, and then went into a football huddle. After a few minutes, he came back saying that they agreed to paint the plane. A week later, we had the plane apart and transported to the school. Now their kids are helping our kids.

While the plane was being painted at the college, the Dean of the school walked by the classroom and saw this unusual sight and inquired to the instructor, “What’s this?” After explaining, it got the gears rolling in her head, as the school was looking to offer the next ‘big thing’ through the college. Her research showed that there was a tremendous need for A & P technicians throughout Florida and the rest of the country. We recently learned that they received State funding to build a hangar at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport for their new A & P mechanic school.

About the same time, Teen Aircraft made a presentation to the local school board, telling them about our program. They thanked us for the presentation, but the reception was cool. However, I think it got the gears in their heads moving too. Today, they are building a

By Jim Faix

middle/high school across the road from the airport with an aviation-themed curriculum. I guess we really did make an impact. They invited us back for more help in developing their programs.

Teen Aircraft has changed the trajectory of the lives of these kids. Some of our kids went into the military, one became an airline pilot, several went on to college to become aeronautical engineers, several have gotten their pilot’s license, and some have gotten better at being a student. They learned from their aviation mentors what it means to be a good person. And when they come back to visit on Saturday mornings to tell the younger kids about all the things they have accomplished, you can see the gears moving in their heads too. This is what makes it all worthwhile.

So, what happened to our Chapter’s Young Eagles program during Covid? Young Eagles was put on hold and no flying was done for nearly two years. During this time, Teen Aircraft Factory has been the glue that has held our Chapter together, since about a 25% of our chapter membership have become mentors for our 20 kids. We also have a weekly adult-build program with an RV-7A. What other Chapter has a weekly event of this nature for their members? Young Eagles has resumed this past January and we fly every third Saturday of the month, giving rides to our Teen Aircraft Factory kids, and any other kid between the ages of 8 and 17.

This is what it’s all about.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT THE SKY’S THE LIMIT for a Career in Aviation, and Oklahoma is Supporting Students Hoping to Take Flight!

By Grayson Ardies, director of the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission

Boeing’s Pilot and Technician Outlook states that the aviation industry will need 763,000 new pilots worldwide by 2039. World air traffic will double every 12-15 years. More people will be needed to build, fly, and maintain new planes. Those are roles that could give many Oklahoma students a bright future.

Seeing the need for an increase in the aviation field, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) created an aviation STEM curriculum for high schools across the United States. The AOPA High School Aviation STEM Curriculum, aka the “You Can Fly” program, is the first of its kind, offering students comprehensive four-year aviation study options that are aligned to Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards. The AOPA program consists of two pathways, the pilot pathway and the UAS pathway, ensuring that students interested in all aviation fields can get on the path to their careers.

The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission (OAC) embraced the initiative immediately and has led the charge to implement an aviation curriculum at the high school level across the state to help solve workforce challenges and to ensure that Oklahoma’s second-largest industry, aviation and aerospace, will continue to be a significant economic driver.

Today, Oklahoma is ranked #1 in the nation for high schools teaching aviation curriculum, with 57 Oklahoma schools implementing the specialized AOPA program. It’s not just about flying airplanes, but about the whole aviation portfolio, ranging from history of the industry, to learning about aircraft systems, understanding the physics of aerospace engineering, operating around an airport, and even meteorology.

Oklahoma has one of the country’s most robust aerospace and aviation education programs. The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission has invested over

$450,000 a year to help educate young Oklahomans about the opportunities available in aviation and aerospace and excite them about the career field. The AOPA nod is one of the many reasons Oklahoma’s aerospace sector weathered the pandemic better than other states and why aerospace companies continue to locate operations here. The success is fitting. Oklahoma’s aerospace industry has roots established a century ago by pioneers such as Wiley Post, Clyde Cessna and many others.

This past August, Governor Stitt, who also happens to be a commercially rated pilot with several thousand flight hours, signed Senate Bill 1147 into law, allowing students to take specific aviation and aerospace courses as part of their core curriculum. Oklahoma also ensures students from all over the state have access to this specialized education. Of the schools across the state that are teaching these courses, over 60% are what would classify as rural schools. These students now have the opportunity to join this great career field, thanks to the AOPA program in Oklahoma. The program is helping to prepare the next generation of workers for Oklahoma’s aerospace industry.

In addition to the AOPA STEM high school program, Oklahoma has 12 universities offering aerospace degrees, including the nation’s only Ph.D. program that caters to UAS. In May 2021, Governor Stitt signed the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Development Act, establishing the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission as the go to organization in state government for UAS and AAM. Integration of AAM and UAS into the National Airspace System will be the key to unlocking this fantastic technology for the aviation and aerospace industry moving forward.

There has never been a better time for students who want to enter the aviation industry. We’re proud that the state of Oklahoma is helping their future careers take off!

NAS Lemoore, California

I joined the USNSCC (United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps) a little over four years ago after my tenth birthday. It was just after my discovery flight at the local flight school, and I was hooked on aviation. I joined the Sea Cadets to meet other people who were interested in flying and becoming pilots too. The Sea Cadets offer all different types of training around the country. I’ve attended several other aviation training sessions that have taught me valuable information and shared experiences that I will never forget. I heard about the training at NAS (Naval Air Station) Lemoore from a shipmate that knew I was into aviation and suggested I sign up for it. I waited all year for the summer training schedule to be released and there it was, Basic Airman-Aviation, NAS Lemoore, CA. A fourteen-day, in person aviation training at one of three Naval Master Jet Bases. Commissioned in 1961, NAS Lemoore now hosts the entire West Coast fighter/attack capability. It is also home to Strike Fighter Wing Pacific. Its primary aircraft being the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and more recently receiving the first F-35C Pacific training squadron. NAS Lemoore is home to five different Carrier Air Wings: 2, 5, 9, 11 & 17. I spent my entire time with VFA 122, the “Flying Eagles”. VFA 122 is the West Coast FRS (Fleet Replacement Squadron) which has approximately 225 officers, 400 enlisted personnel and operates over 60 aircraft.

I arrived at the gates of NAS Lemoore midday during the Summer of 2022, and the MAA (Master-at-arms) verified our paperwork and allowed us to enter the base. We were escorted to the Navy Lodge and met the COTC (Commanding Officer-Training Contingent), XO (Executive Officer) and the rest of the Sea Cadet volunteer staff and fellow cadets. We were assigned our rooms and unpacked our sea bags, ready for the adventure. The first night was really fun and getting to meet my roommates was exciting. My roommates came from all over the country to experience this training and take their knowledge back to their home units to share what they have learned.

By Ava Rian Shelly

I worked at the VFA-122 hangar every day from 0800-1400, assisting active-duty Navy personnel. There are a total of seven shops to rotate through at the hanger. The seat shop, airframes, power plants, electricians, avionics, paraloft and ordinance. The seat shop is run by the AMEs. (Aviation Structural Mechanic-Safety Equipment) The duties performed by AMEs include: maintaining the various aircraft systems such as seat and canopy ejection (egress), gaseous and liquid oxygen, life raft ejection, fire extinguishing, air conditioning, cabin and cockpit heat, pressurization, ventilation; remove and install oxygen system valves, gauges, converters and regulators; inspecting, removing, installing and rigging ejection seats, shoulder harnesses, lap belts and face-curtain mechanisms; performing daily, preflight, post-flight and other periodic aircraft inspections. With the help of the AMEs, my battle buddy and I both got our PQS (Personal Qualification Standard) for ejection seats and are now qualified to work in, on and around the Mk14 ejection seat. This was truly an amazing and fun shop.

The airframe shop is run by the AMs. (Aviation Structural Mechanics) The AMs maintain and repair all aircraft structural components, from the cockpit controls panels to the landing gear and everything in between. Some of their duties include: maintaining and repairing onboard systems, wings, fuselage, all types of hydraulic systems and assembling metal components to make necessary repairs to aircrafts. When I was with AMs, we removed one the Super Hornets left vertical stabilizer for routine maintenance in the morning and got to put it back on in the afternoon! We got to sit on the ‘stab’ so the Airframers could whack the bolts out with “big red” (their big hammer) and check the inside for corrosion and other potential damage.

The powerplant shop is run by the ADs (Aviation Machinist Mate). The ADs are aircraft engine mechanics. They have an important job of maintaining and preparing aircraft for flight by inspecting, repairing, and overhauling aircraft engines and propellers. ADs get to function as Aircrew in certain types of aircraft as well. ADs deploy with the air wing and keep all the aircraft functioning safely. We worked with them on the flight line and did the

FOD (Foreign Object Debris) check each morning. FOD check is when you and every other sailor walk in sections down the length of the airstrip checking for any screws, nails, or any small objects that could possibly end up in the intake. If something like that did happen, all the sailors would be in trouble and the pilot could end up in a fatal crash. Also, I got to help de-fuel a F/A-18E that was there for repairs. As luck would have it, right when I unscrewed the lid, fuel spilled everywhere and got all over us.

The electricians’ shop is run by the AEs & ATs (Aviation Electrician’s Mate & Aviation Electronics Technicians). The AEs are responsible for miniating, testing, troubleshooting and repairing complex electrical and electronic systems, and instruments using the latest test equipment and procedures. The ATs perform intermediate level maintenance on aviation electronic components supported by conventional and automatic test equipment, including repair of weapons replaceable assemblies and shop replaceable assemblies and perform test equipment calibration/repair and associated test bench maintenance. I was able to see behind the panels in the cockpit and watch the sailors replace a wiring harness on the radios so the pilot can talk to the tower, ship, and other aircraft. It’s amazing how many different electrical systems are inside of the jet.

The avionics shop is run by the AVs. (Aviation Electronics, Electrical and Computer Systems Technicians) AV sailors attend common basic electronics training, after which they are selected for either the Aviation Electrician (AE) rating or the Aviation Electronics Technician (AT) rating. Depending on selection to AE or AT, the AV sailor will troubleshoot and repair some of the complex electronic systems, employing the latest test equipment and procedures on radar systems, navigation systems, laser guidance systems and so much more. The AV guys showed us how all the instruments worked and why they are all so important to the pilot.

The paraloft shop is run by the PRs (Aircraft Survival Equipmentman). The PRs are survival equipment specialists and certified parachute riggers who oversee valuable lifesaving equipment, parachutes, and other

special gear used by US Naval and Marine Corps special operations forces, Naval Air Department, and the United States Navy Parachute Team known as the “Leap Frogs”. They perform a wide range of duties, which include inspecting, maintaining, and repairing parachutes, search and rescue equipment, along with survival kits, medical kits, flight clothing, protective wear, night vision equipment, aircrew oxygen systems, liquid oxygen converters, anti-exposure suits, and G-suits. PRs operate and maintain carbon dioxide transfer and recharge equipment, operate and repair sewing machines as well as train aircrew and other personnel in parachute rigging and the use of safety and survival equipment. Some of my fellow Sea Cadets were able to test the rigging system and wear the gear the pilots wear. They showed us the very expensive custom helmets for each pilot and how they are made to fit each unique person.

Finally are the AOs (Aviation Ordnancemen). AOs get to handle all the bombs, bullets, mines, torpedoes, rockets, and missiles. They are also responsible for storing, managing, inspecting, maintaining, loading, and unloading all ammunition and other ordinance. They let us hold some of the different missiles and assist in loading different munitions on the aircraft. One of the most notable aviation ordnance men was Lieutenant John William Finn, who came up as an enlisted sailor making it to the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Lt. Finn’s Medal of Honor Citation reads, “For extraordinary heroism, distinguished service, and devotion above and beyond the call of duty”. During the first attack by Japanese airplanes on the Naval Air Station, Kaneohe Bay, Territory of Hawaii, on December 7, 1941, he promptly secured and manned a .50 caliber machine gun mounted on an instruction stand in a completely exposed section of the parking ramp, which was under heavy enemy machine gun strafing fire. Although painfully wounded many times, he continued to man this gun and return the enemy’s fire vigorously and with telling effect throughout the enemy strafing and bombing attacks and with complete disregard for his own personal safety.

It was only by specific orders that he was persuaded to leave his post to seek medical attention. Following first-aid treatment, although obviously suffering much pain and moving with great difficulty, he returned to the squadron area and actively supervised the rearming of returning planes. His extraordinary heroism and conduct in this action are considered to be in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.” Lt. Finn is the only AO to ever receive the Medal of Honor.

I’ve known that I want to be a Naval Aviator for as long as I can remember, and after spending two weeks with active-duty sailors, I learned a lot about naval aviation and had the best experiences. I enjoyed every second, being in the hangar and being so close to the F/A-18s. Being able to work on them and helping on the flight line is something I’ll never forget. I met some amazing people there, and they were nothing but kind to us. It was also exciting to go to the F-35 hangar, being able to touch one, and see it up-close!

The living quarters were very nice, clean, and comfortable. It was an on base hotel, but for people who are in the Navy and their families when they come to visit. It was nice to bond with my roommates and get to walk over to the NEX for snacks during company time. I had three fantastic roommates in a very small room but we made

the best of it, and we still talk to this day. We ate breakfast and lunch at the OPS Galley and dinner at Spuds, where we would go daily to unwind. The food was good, and it was a nice time to catch up with the rest of the cadets and talk about our experiences on what we did that day. Being able to have this opportunity to travel to another state to see what it would be like to pursue my dreams was surreal. This was one of the most amazing Sea Cadet training sessions I have ever attended. Not only did my family and I travel together, but we all got to experience a little bit of California, too.

My favorite shop is hard to choose. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of the two weeks I was there, especially at the hanger! Being able to connect and bond with the sailors over shared interests was really an amazing way to see what it’s like being a part of the actual Navy. We enjoyed the on-base activities including the pool, the bowling alley and the movie theater. Overall, I highly recommend this training, if you can get a slot! It was such an amazing experience. I am so very thankful to my parents, the USNSCC, all the Navy personnel, and most importantly, VFA-122.

Finding My True Home

By Larae Stotts

How did you land a career in the airlines?

“I knew I wanted to fly at an early age thanks to aviation exposure as a kid. Aircraft from the Barksdale Air Force Base (AFB) in Louisiana flew over my house almost daily growing up, and I vividly remember watching an air show at the base. I set my sights on becoming an Air Force pilot and was fortunate to accept a pilot slot, attend pilot training, and receive my first choice fighter—the F-16 Viper. Over the course of my career, I flew various aircraft. About three months prior to my retirement, I interviewed with Southwest Airlines for a pilot role. I retired after 20 years as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force on a Friday and started training at Southwest Airlines the following Monday.”

Is it true that you live in a truck?

“Yes. I enjoy flexibility in my work schedule as a Southwest Airlines pilot and opportunities to see the country. With the onset of the pandemic, I became a minimalist and sold almost everything I owned. I purchased a Southwest Airlines provisioning truck, built a tiny house on wheels, and now pull my 2018 Tacoma behind it. I can come to work and fly as little or as much as I want, knowing that I’m completely comfortable living only with the necessities. I’ve learned over the past few years that less is more!”

What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing their dreams?

“Ask questions and don’t be afraid to try new things. Take chances; be bold and make moves without hesitation.”

There’s no one size fits all approach to achieving your dreams. Like Mark, you can create a career and experience that’s meaningful to you.

What’s your favorite work memory?

“On my first Southwest Airlines flight years ago, I flew out of Albuquerque and remember the unique, open-seating policy. It’s simple— just get on and sit wherever you want. The flight attendant’s announcements on the flight made me laugh. She said, “This is our fifth leg, we’re very tired, and this is a seatbelt; if you don’t know how to put this on, then maybe you should get off the plane.” Of course, she was joking, but everyone was laughing. The culture at Southwest Airlines is unlike anything I’ve experienced. I love the positive energy and individualism fostered. I dreamt about working somewhere that’s fun, no matter the income, as opposed to making more money where it’s just a ‘job.’”

Mark (@spanky301), Southwest Airlines Pilot

Magic B EI N G PA R T O F TH E

By Capt. Nathan Maki

stay proficient, which would require more money than typically is necessary. Normally, you take a series of lessons that would usually lead to an expeditious solo flight, so I had a problem. Butch submitted an excellent idea. After our flight in a Cessna 172, he recommended that I go to the small grass airport nearby and continue flight training in a glider. It is a less-expensive solution. I took his advice, and met Randy, who owns and operates Cape Cod Soaring Adventures. Flying gliders is awesome!

It is exciting to be part of the magic that is aviation! Moreover, it is exhilarating and pure joy to experience flight. It is a true gift to be able to share it. Some will tell you that money makes airplanes fly. That is not the whole truth. Passionate people make planes fly (and Bernoulli’s principle). If you truly desire to be a pilot, you will. Let nothing stop you. Today, I am a captain at a major airline, but I did not start here. I encountered many obstacles on my journey to the airlines. The path must be flexible, and you can never give up on your dreams!

Growing up in New England, I did not have much money, but I had plenty of passion and people to help me. In the summer of 1986, two things happened, my uncle Dick took me to an airshow on Cape Cod, and the movie Top Gun came out. I was eight years old; I always wanted to be a pilot; I was going to be a pilot; and what I saw that day at the airshow sealed the deal for me. There was no turning back. (Go to an airshow!)

That summer, my birthday was approaching, as it does every August, and I asked my father for an introductory flying lesson. He said yes, but added that I had to wait until I was ten years old. It turns out I had to wait until I was twelve years old for my first lesson. My father and I went to our local airport, entered Hyannis Air Service, and met my flight instructor, Butch. He was a kind man, a retired Air Force pilot. He was perfect!

He told us that twelve was an excellent age to begin flying lessons and warned it could get expensive. I could not solo until I was sixteen. Four years is a long time to

As a side story: I rode my bicycle to that grass airport to hang out and meet pilots when I was around eleven years old. I was told that if I mowed the grass runways with their farm tractor, I might get a ride in an airplane. I mowed that airport for hours and hours, day after day. I was just so excited to be on the field and near the action! When I asked about an airplane ride, the management gave me a t-shirt. Oh well, it was a fun summer and I got to do something unique.

Later, before I had my driver’s license, I got a job driving a fuel truck on the Hyannis Airport for Griffin Avionics. Initially, Mr. Griffin had doubts about my ability to drive the fuel truck. I told him of my extensive experience driving the tractor on the grass airport. He was beginning to see it my way. Just when I thought he might waver, I blurted out, “I fly airplanes here, I am sure I can drive the truck.” He nodded in agreement and hired me on the spot!

Around this time, I was required to get a FAA medical exam to solo. The doctor failed me for color vision. I thought I was finished! My first medical said I could only fly during the day, which was a problem. He suggested I reach out to the FAA and apply for a waiver, which I did. I passed their color light test with a 100%. The restrictions were removed! I can now pass any class of medical exam with my waiver and fly at night.

Finally, I soloed in a Cessna 152 at sixteen years old, and I earned my private pilot’s license at seventeen. I was lucky to have a very supportive father; between all of his support and some of my money, I earned my wings. He took a few flying lessons too, but I believe he gave up on his dream of flying so that I could continue mine. Thank you, dad. Many airports offer a private pilot ground school. Your local flight school will have the

best information, but make sure you ask! Sometimes the class is only once a year.

Now, I have advice for the day dreamers. I had a difficult freshman year of high school. I have no idea why, but my grades were bad. Leading up to my freshman year of high school, my plan was to attend college at the US Naval Academy, because it is free. Well, I got my grades up, but not enough to be competitive for the Naval Academy. I needed to go to college, finish flight training, and pay for it. I was accepted to three other universities. I decided to attend Oklahoma State University. At the time, it was purely a financial decision. The school’s tuition was reasonable and the cost of living was low. I had no money saved for school, so I took out student loans to pay for just about everything. If I had to do it over, I would choose to go to Oklahoma State because the people and the program are exceptional. They also have developed relationships with airlines for internships. During my time at OSU, I got straight A’s and earned an important internship at TWA. As a result of my success there, TWA offered to hire me as pilot. Except when I was qualified, they no longer existed. I was flying for a small regional airline at the time.

More people stepped-in to help me. Friends from college had moved onto other airlines and they helped me get hired at a Denver based airline flying the Airbus A320. I loved working there. However, in 2009, that company filed bankruptcy. I decided not to stay there, and learned of other larger legacy airlines hiring.

Truly, where there is a will, there is a way. There were many times when I thought a career as a pilot was just not meant to be. That is not true. What is true is that, at times, it is difficult; but it is worth it! Obstacles will come, and you can conquer them. All the obstacles build experiences that build on each other. The tractor led to a fuel truck, the truck to the Cessna, the Cessna to turboprops and regional jets. Now I have flown the 737, A320, 757, 767, and 787, just to name a few. I am grateful for my parents for helping me make a beginning. I am grateful for all the friends I have met along the way. Do not let anything stop you! Ask for help when you need to. There are plenty of people willing to help you if you have the passion to fly.

ZEAN NIELSEN: Inspiring Great Take-offs and Landings

By Nancy Nwelati Coll

Udholdenhed! That’s the word a young Danish Zean Nielsen would have used to describe the power behind his successful take-off into the world of leadership – it means, ‘perseverance’! Today, Zean lives in the United States and is CEO of Cirrus Aircraft, inspiring a more accessible and personal experience in aviation through innovation and attention to the values of flight enthusiasts.

Here is a soundbite of a great conversation the AviNation team had with Zean at AirVenture 2022.

AviNation: How were you introduced to aviation, and how did that get you to where you are today?

Zean: I grew up in a small town in Denmark, 3,000 people, a tiny town. My father bought a small farm that bordered up to a small airport. I played

semi-professional soccer in my youth, and I would go run by the airport. I would see all the 172s take off, the gliders, and so forth. Then, every year the airport authority would organize a day for all the neighbors to come out and fly. The first plane I flew was a glider. I was 9 years old. Obviously, I didn’t fly it, but I was in it. It was one of those where there was a stationary crane that pulled you up. But I never got into flying until I joined Cirrus.

AviNation: What was your first job, and do you remember anything from it that helps you today?

Zean: Yes. My first job was with Bang & Olufsen, a high-end electronics company. I started my journey there as an intern, got into the sales and marketing part of it, then the distribution/development part of it.

I moved to the US in 1999, and ended up running the North and South American aspect as the President of Bang & Olufsen. I left that company to go to work for Tesla, for Elon Musk, for four years.

I think, if I take something away, it is to persevere, and be a little humble – learning to listen more than you talk. So sometimes, I slow things down and make sure I’ve heard everybody out, and then I make decisions based on that. Then, you have to persevere through the implementation. There’s no such thing as an overnight success.

AviNation: What was your first, real, memorable hurdle as a young person? Was there something that you had to overcome? And, how did you overcome that?

Zean: A couple of things stick out as hurdles. I was 26 or 27, running Bang & Olufsen and I remember that I was getting super stressed; my blood pressure was through the roof, but I was in relatively fit condition, so I should not have had those sorts of things. I went to my CEO at the time – it was a Danish company- and I was like, “Hey, I’ve got too much on my plate, not enough hours in the day, and you need to take some stuff off my plate and give me more resources for what I need to do.” And he just looked at me, and said, “No. You’re working wrong. You’re not working smart, but you’re working super hard.” So, he basically threw a book across the desk, which read, ‘PEP: Personal Efficiency Program’. And I’m like, ‘Man, what a jerk!’ Here I come and ask for help, and this is what he tells me to do: ‘Dry your little eyes, and go read this book. Off you go.’

I went back, reluctantly read the book, and it changed how I work today. I, now, am way more careful about how I spend my time, who I surround myself with, how I delegate work, and what my priorities are. I changed how I work because of that very cold interaction, but it was the kindest thing he could have done to me. Today, I don’t get stressed anymore.

And, I think about feedback. Today, we wrap feedback in all kinds of softness so we don’t offend anybody. It actually takes the individual longer to course-correct because of that. Sometimes, the biggest kindness is actually to give direct feedback.

AviNation: Are there any subjects through the years that you’ve taken on, that have really been

beneficial in your leadership roles, anything that makes you say, ‘You’d better pay attention to this kind of stuff because you will really use it’?

Zean: The schooling system is a little different in Denmark. Essentially, you go through 9th grade, and then choose which direction in life you want to go. I chose business at the time. I spent a lot of energy on Math, Finance, and International Business Law.

In a family where my father was a CEO, my mom was a CEO, and my grandfather was a CEO, they all ran companies and built something. I think what we all picked-up on, in particular, was to look for value, value-creation, and to really refine that. Make products and make services that make the world a better place or somebody’s life a better life. That’s just been my calling.

AviNation: Speaking of that, early-on, who were some of your major influences? And now, who are a few of them?

Zean: I’ve been fortunate that right from my first job at Bang & Olufsen, the CEO at the time, Tolbin Belegot came from Lego with very much this philosophy of ‘You have to play; you have to create something and build something.’ I found him when I was 19 or 20 years old. I watched and learned through mentors like him. After that, I worked for Elon for four years. I watched and observed him, had lots of interactions with him where we disagreed on certain things, and learned my place in the world order. Then I went over to James Hardie, where Louis Gries was a very skilled CEO. So, I’ve just been very fortunate to have some really talented CEOs that I’ve observed and learned from them.

I don’t think there is one mentor. My parents were both CEOs, and ran their own companies. One of my first mentors was my soccer coach.

AviNation: How is Cirrus currently reaching young people with your message of removing the barriers of exclusivity for aviation?

Zean: We have changed how we communicate. Historically, we did mostly events and advertising to get the message out. So, we started doing way more digital, meaning more social media, more website development, more videos, more content on Cirrus Approach and Embark – two platforms where we do training, essentially. Some of that content is free. We actually just gave away a very expensive Take-offs and Landings course that we developed. It took us

almost a year to develop it. We gave it away. And, you don’t have to be a Cirrus owner to get some advantages of what to worry about when you take-off and land, right? So, in that sense, we’re trying to create content that has value for all ages that are into learning how to fly.

AviNation: Tell us more about Take-offs and Landings. How was that created?

Zean: We staffed-up our in-house media team. We literally have people that are experts at videography, editing, and putting it all together because we believe training content should be fun. If you can turn learning into gamification and a fun experience that you actually look forward to, and take the next chapter, we believe that’s enormously important in avoiding this plateau that a lot of students run into at all ages. I’m sure you’re already familiar with the statistics - somewhere around eighty or ninety percent of people who start their PPL never finish it. So, why is that? We think we can create an ecosystem where, if the weather is bad, there is a simulator available. You might be able to, at home, be able to game your way to learning how to talk to ATC and how to operate the avionics, so that when you are actually at the airport, paying a lot of money for the flying lesson, some of that stuff is out of the way, so you can focus on your stick and rudder skills.

AviNation: What piece of advice would you give to a young person coming up through the ranks, an aspiring aviation professional or CEO? Is there one piece of advice that they can take away and make sure that they follow?

Zean: For me, perseverance is the key. You’re going to fall a lot, so you have to believe that you can

achieve whatever you put your mind to. Once you make a decision, see it through, even if it takes a little longer than you had planned. Be humble along the way; because if you’re not, it comes back to bite you. Be kind. Once you get into leadership positions, you can deliver hard messages and hard feedback, but you don’t have to be a jerk about it. You can be kind. Then, people will follow you and help you, and you can help them. It is perseverance and focus. You have to put in the hours and not be afraid of the hard work.

And then, the last bit is, not everybody has the same skill. Everybody is different at different things, but once you get into school or a business environment, you can only control your attitude and your effort. Everything else will happen. You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but you’d better be the most prepared. That is totally within your control - to be the most prepared for whatever is going to be discussed or decisions that have to be made. If you do that, things will be fine. If you show up and you‘re not the smartest person in the room, you’re the loudest person in the room, and you’re not prepared, you’re not going to go very far. I would give myself that advice if I were 20 years younger.

Cirrus is definitely positioned for good landings in the capable hands of Zean Nielsen, no doubt about it! Check out their website, CirrusAircraft.com, for intern programs and outreach programs - everything from Women in Aviation, to Pilots and Paws, Angel Flights, and feeder programs to schools – they are really interested in seeing youth learn how to fly, but also to work for their company.

JUST A MECHANIC

By Jeffery Howard (gsams.org)

Recently, I received correspondence from an individual that described himself as “just a mechanic”. It broke my heart to think individuals would place so little value on their chosen profession. When you call yourself “just a,” you let the world see you as less than you really are.

I have been in the aviation maintenance industry for over forty years. I have met and worked with hundreds of Certified Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics, Certified Repairman, and Technicians of all skills and disciplines. There is a trend to paint them with a big brush and categorize them as Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMT). None are “just a”, anything. They are professionals, one and all.

Consider the Certified Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic (A&P) and their job. They are inspectors first and foremost. It is in their DNA to inspect aircraft. As they approach an aircraft of any kind, anywhere, they begin inspecting it.

The inspection begins with a series of questions and observations: is it leaking anything, does the aircraft require cleaning, is it making noises it should not be and are there smells that should not be coming from that type of aircraft? As the A&P gets closer, more details are inspected. Their eyes, ears, nose, and, finally, their touches examine as much of the aircraft as they gain access. Each aircraft has a personality and issues unique to that aircraft.

If an aircraft is usually maintained by an A&P mechanic, the mechanic will look upon it with an affection only they understand. They know it’s personality and know when it speaks. Oil in a new location, movement in an unusual way,or looseness in an area tell a story to those who know how to look for it. That is a unique bond that is only understood by those that have experienced it.

After a complete inspection, begins the process of correcting any defect found. An assessment of the defects must be accomplished. Does the defect constitute an unairworthy condition? If so, is the

corrective action a repair, major repair, or alteration? Each has a different process and, therefore, different criteria for proper completion.

Each of the three would require answering a few questions: where is guidance for the specific level of repair; does the repair guidance need to be approved data; do I have access to the guidance; is the guidance the most current available?

Now the A&P mechanic needs to research and study the guidance. An effort to understand the guidelines ensures the A&P has the skills, tools, and other resources to complete the repair. They must gather those resources and ensure the task is completed in compliance with the guidance. After the repair is complete, testing and evaluations must be completed to ensure the repair corrected the defect. Understanding the system and completing the testing and evaluation of the system is critical.

Ensuring the standards are met as outlined in the guidance for the repair is a critical part of the A&P mechanic’s responsibility. Those standards ensure the repair will restore the aircraft to a standard that will meet the expectations of the pilot and crew. Those expectations are identified in the approved flight manual. Failure to meet those standards may throw burning coals on the pilot and crew in an emergency. Not meeting those standards may create a crisis or worsen an ongoing emergency.

After the testing and evaluations are completed, and the standards met, the record must be updated to include details of the work accomplished, results of the functional testing, and proper certification of the maintenance, including documenting any follow-up maintenance inspections that may have been performed.

The above items will take time, skill, knowledge, and experience. This does not sound like “just a” to me. A skilled professional has applied their expertise to ensure every part of the task is completed, documented, and certified before the aircraft is released from their care. That sounds like someone committed to keeping others safe; someone that has freely taken on the responsibility of many lives, providing safety and security to those entrusted to their care. It is far more than “just a.”

By Darrion Flunder-Jenkins

Sky Breakers Take Flight

The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) is the hub for all new and emerging Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drone) technology. Our focus is on improving industries that provide the imperative elements of everyday essence in the state of Louisiana. Last year, ULM held our first drone workshops open to middle and high school students statewide. Allowing students the experience to explore aspects of the Unmanned Aircraft System Management degree and Agricultural Business degree, we offer students new career paths aimed at setting the fundamental practices for the drone industry and allowing students to focus heavily on STEAM fundamentals, in conjunction with exploring the applications of drone technology and sensors that can be utilized in different fields. These include geosciences, biology, health studies, film, photography, construction, marketing, atmospheric science, and research into the interrogation of drones into the National Airspace System.

ULM has some of the greatest young minds, working with faculty to give back to the community and to develop new relationships with industry leaders to explore new options when it comes to their daily operations efficiency. Our students’ behaviors and mindset foster an environment that launches ULM’s UAS Management program into the future alongside major components whose research has set the foundation for the integration of drone technology into the National Airspace System. The prime of our students elevate the drone industry by cultivating practices far into the future that will supply generations to come a safer and a more cohesive community.

Cooper Treadway, a promising bright mind in the aviation industry and a student within the Unmanned Aircraft System Management (UASM) program at ULM has been paramount to the success of the drone workshops, as well as, to the UASM program. His ability to interact with students of all ages and backgrounds allowed him to pique the interest of students attending the workshop and show them the capabilities of a variety of drones within the ULM fleet. Mr. Treadway, a senior

at ULM, all the way from Florida, realized his passion for drones at the age of 15 years old. In high school, Mr. Treadway documented football games and plays as well as created marketing material for his JROTC program. At a young age, his mind explored the ideas of applying drones, and from there, dedicated his career path to working in the aviation industry, specializing in the use of drone technology within under-served fields to improve operational efficiency.

After high school, Mr. Treadway sought out his FAA Part 107 Pilot Certification to start earning money while conducting flight operations using drones. He became influential in the development of DroneDeploy, a mapping software company that unifies the extensive everyday operating practices of drone pilots into one platform. Mr. Treadway conducted test flights, uploaded the data for analysis, then generated reports that DroneDeploy utilized to better serve their clients. His passion for drones and the aviation industry has led to great opportunities for his career. During the summer of 2022, he interned at the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD), where he conducted numerous flights, inspecting general aviation airports for compliance of federal aviation regulations and state standard operating principles, making recommendations on improvements needed to keep the public safe. Mr. Treadway says, “I have a passion to see how and where the UAS technologies will advance and expand. I got to see the progress it made and the impact it had on the state of Louisiana while I was with the LA DOTD”. After college, Mr. Treadway hopes to continue his work within the government at the federal level, setting the standards for future drone pilots and ensuring the safe practices of drone integration.

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NOT EVERYONE IN AVIATION FLIES

By Victoria Neuville

When discussing an aviation career, the first thought in many people’s minds is a pilot, flying passengers or cargo from point A to point B. However, aviation is a vast industry, full of diverse employment opportunities. There is one career in aviation many people don’t immediately consider, or know exists. Quietly behind the scenes is the comfort of a 9-5 weekday-only office job, but mixed with the excitement of working with pilots daily, attending airshows, and being current on the latest news in aviation. This field is a required call if you operate aircraft or run an aviation business – aviation insurance!

If you rent or own an aircraft, it should be insured. Insurance policies are bought on an annual basis and provide the insured a defense for third party liability for property damage or bodily injury. It can also cover physical damage to the aircraft. Policy premium is based on the pilot or operator experience, compared to the liability limits they require, and the value of the aircraft. For example, a pleasure use Cessna 172 will likely cost less than one used for instruction at a flight school. This is because the flight school has a larger exposure; more

pilots are flying the aircraft on a regular basis so there are more opportunities for aircraft damage than with one or two pilots flying the privately owned aircraft. The insurance on the flight school 172 will be cheaper than insurance on a Citation Jet, though, because the jet has a much higher value to replace or fix if there were an accident. In addition, an ATP owning an aircraft will be charged less than a new student purchasing an aircraft.

Companies such as flight schools and corporate aircraft fleets may also require general liability insurance (often known as slip and fall or premises coverage) and workers’ compensation for employees that may be hurt on the job. Aircraft maintenance facilities and FBO general liability policies often extend to include hangarkeepers’ coverage (for damage done to aircraft in their care) or products liability (for fuel services or maintenance services claims) coverage.

Auto insurance, homeowners insurance, and aircraft insurance policies all have a similar structure and require a property and casualty (P&C) insurance license. Education for the license is provided in a multitude of ways including in person classes, live webinars, and self-study courses. A test with a passing grade is required upon completion and to keep the license active, continuing education credits must be completed every two years. You must obtain a license in each state in which you sell insurance, and each has their own licensing requirements. However, aviation insurance stands out from the rest. The questions and training for the P&C license do not specifically address the nuances of aviation insurance and much of that learning is done on the job. Aviation insurance is a good career for someone with a background or passion for aircraft.

Aviation insurance agents are paid commissions from insurance carriers for whom they are appointed and sell policies. It can be a satisfying career for those who have ambition and like a good challenge. A typical day in the office involves handling email and phone calls consisting of quoting new business and managing

renewal business. Sales leads can come from cold calling, but the fun connections are made in person when visiting airports and participating in aviation events. There is a unique spectrum of pilots and companies in aviation and the relationships made over time make aircraft insurance a surprisingly rewarding career.

Not everyone with aviation careers flies. It takes many people to make the aviation industry run: from mechanics and lineman to air traffic controllers and safety inspectors. Behind the scenes are aircraft insurance agents, people who get excited to talk about aircraft and assist to provide solutions for aircraft owners and operators.

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NOAA, Far More Than Just Hurricane

By Jamie Beckett

Not so long ago, Kenneth Brewer was a student at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. His heart was set on becoming an officer in the U.S. Marines. His specific goal was to become what was once known as a Flying Leatherneck – a U.S. Marine pilot. That goal shifted dramatically after he attended a career fair while in college. Brewer met a pilot there who was dressed in a peculiar uniform he didn’t recognize. Brewer wondered, “Why are you dressed like an astronaut but you have the rank of a Naval officer.” He simplified his question and posed it to this oddly attired gentleman, “What are you?” It turned out he was a P3 Orion pilot. A true Hurricane Hunter.

That chance encounter led Brewer to revise his goals and seek out a deeply satisfying career with NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Today he wears the rank of Lt. JG (Lieutenant junior grade) as a DHC-6 pilot and Programs Officer for perhaps the least well understood branch of the United States Services. His call sign is, The Mayor.

When asked if he thinks the general public is aware of what NOAA is and the importance of the missions they carry out, Brewer replies simply, “Most people aren’t.” Little wonder. A quick visit to the NOAA website will confirm that NOAA’s reach extends “from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor.” That is an impressively large area of operation. One few of us think of as our own domain. But NOAA does.

Unlike the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines which all fall under the Department of Defense, NOAA falls under the umbrella of the Commerce Department, and for good reason. They deal in science with a mission to monitor and protect the nation by using the knowledge they acquire in the course of doing their work.

“On the officer’s side we are the ship drivers,” Brewer explains. “We are the pilots. We’re the aviators, the navigators. We do all the line office work.” Even a short conversation with The Mayor makes it clear that NOAA and its staff do far more exciting, important, and challenging work than most people even dream possible. “On the civilian side we have meteorologists, technicians, engineers, mechanics, and support staff.”

Based out of a purpose-built structure that encloses approximately 270,000 square feet of hangars, offices, and storage, NOAA is the driver for a host of impressive operations that range from the Arctic Circle to the tropics.

Another way NOAA differs from the other branches of service is that NOAA is small. “We are the smallest service,” Brewer admits. A staff of just 321 commissioned officers work hand in hand with the organization’s more than 11,000 civilian employees to protect the nation’s resources and environment through scientific research. Science. That’s what hooked Brewer after considering his options following that career fair when he was in college. “I get to be an officer who serves my nation,” says Brewer. “While doing science in the fringes of the Arctic and down in these horrible hurricanes down in the Caribbean. And, I still get to be a pilot.”

The lifestyle and the work appealed to Brewer as much as the people he got to work with at NOAA. “They have a lot of my same interests,” he acknowledges. “They love being outside. They love science.” With a chuckle he suggests, “These are basically nerds that fly and go to sea.”

Perhaps the best-known aspect of NOAA’s work is their fleet of Hurricane Hunter aircraft. The turboprop powered P3 Orions fly into the heart of the storms at between 8,000 and 10,000 feet above sea level. The scientists inside those aircraft are taking measurements and determining the strength of the beast as it treks toward the mainland.

Above the fray flies a NOAA Gulfstream G-IV, soon to be replaced by a G-V. The jet flies high, in the realm of 41,000 to 45,000 feet to monitor the storm and track its movements.

Hurricane Hunters

“Forty to fifty years ago,” Brewer says, “we could tell you within 200 miles where that storm is going to hit.” Today, that cone of confusion has been narrowed down considerably. While tracking storms in recent years Brewer says, “We were able to narrow that to one mile prediction of exactly where the hurricane is going to go.”

That precision is a lifesaver for folks on the ground in the affected areas. Knowing whether to evacuate, which direction to evacuate in, and when to go can make all the difference. The folks prepping, flying, and monitoring the scientific instrumentation on these aircraft are truly unsung heros.

Hurricanes and tropical cyclones are not all NOAA tracks, however. And yes, a tropical cyclone is different than a hurricane in the sense that it exists south of the equator. So, it rotates the opposite way. One of Brewer’s favorite assignments is snow surveys. “It’s 500 feet terrain following through the mountains up in the Northeast, and all throughout the mid-west.

Snow is a natural feature of the northern latitudes during the winter months. By tracking the depth of the snow and its water content, NOAA scientists can predict how fast the snow melt will occur. More importantly, they can postulate where that water will flow, and how high the risk of flooding might be.

This can be especially critical in low lying areas, such as river basins where ice floes can block free drainage during a sudden increase in the Spring melt. With NOAA providing input in advance, ground and water borne forces can prepare to clear the blockages, preventing untold property damage as well as the life-threatening risk to the population of the affected areas.

Snow surveys are flown with NOAA’s lighter aircraft. Typically, Beechcraft King Air and DeHavilland Twin Otter equipment. These are Brewer’s favorite aircraft to fly.

Even that isn’t a full picture of all the work NOAA does, however. As they say in the late-night television infomercials…there’s more!

NOAA crews also track at risk species in their natural habitat, such as Right Whales, Leatherback Turtles, sea lions, and dolphins. They track and protect fisheries. They analyze air quality and pollutants from forest fires. All of which makes sense when you realize that NOAA’s Mission Statement is a simple three word declaration. “Science. Service. Stewardship.”

Thankfully, Kennieth Brewer was able to turn a chance meeting into a whole new career path that has matched his professional and personal lifestyle goals perfectly. “There’s opportunities out there beyond what you see,” Brewer says.

Truer words were never spoke.

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SUCCESS: American Dream

The AviNation American Dream Tour to promote aviation/aerospace education and career opportunities to diverse youth was in Southern California in October 2022. Local, regional, and national industry leaders, educators, and mentors shared their inspirational journeys with interested students.

Santa Monica High School, Kern High School Career & Technical Education Center, Palmdale High School Engineering Program, and the Edwards Air Force Base STEM Expo allowed the Tour to reach thousands of potential young aviators and future industry leaders.

A standout "aha moment" was that perhaps the teachers and leaders were learning as much as the students, and all were having fun! "What is an FBO (Fixed Base Operator) or CFI (Certified Flight Instructor)?" asked a few teachers and administrators.

All were working together to accomplish the AviNation mission to attract, educate, and empower youth in aerospace. In Bakersfield, where a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter flew in, the waiting crowd applauded, many of the industry leaders taking "selfie" photos

The leaders represented were from a wide variety of aviation and aerospace disciplines- an Ag Pilot, two F-15 pilots, an aviation attorney, two airport managers, a 20-year-old pilot, a 15-year-old who is building an airplane, an FBO manager, an air traffic controller, a museum director, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter pilot, an A&P Mechanic, a DOD engineer, and a Youth Aero Club president - in addition to, college and

At the Kern High Career & Technical Education Center, I was invited to speak with students in small groups. To "break the ice" and get to know the student audience, I asked them to name their hobbies. One student responded,

Dream Tour - CALIFORNIA

By Tom Flavin

"Physics!" Wow! Immediately, I suggested he feature that hobby on his resume, front-and-center.

Later that day, in a conversation about this student with Mr. Earl Johnson, one of the guest speakers, he mentioned that his hobby is physics, too. Wow, again!

Then, at the Edwards Air Force Base STEM Expo (Physics Central), I had an opportunity to briefly speak with Brigadier General Matthew W. Higer. Introducing the AviNation team, I pointed to Mr. Earl Johnson, a guest speaker, and added, "His hobby is physics." The General immediately replied, asking, "Isn't physics everyone’s hobby?" Jokingly ducking my head down to signal embarrassment, because physics is not my hobby, I heard the General quickly add that math was his first language. Wow! Wow! Wow!

The top five hobbies of Gen Z and Millennials on one Google search include:

1) Gaming, 2) Music / Playing an instrument, 3) Sports, 4) Art / Drawing / Painting, and 5) Reading. One could have any of these hobbies and be a pilot, an astronaut, or an engineer.

Not everyone involved in aviation or aerospace is a physics major, math guru, engineer, A&P Mechanic, avionics technician, pilot, or astronaut. AviNation American Dream Tour celebrates all areas of aerospace and plans to continue outreach throughout 2023, and beyond.

AviNation is grateful to our supporters and speakers, who include Republic Airways, the U.S. Coast Guard, Antelope Valley College, California Aeronautical University, California Baptist University, MC, Ricardo Foster, LCDR, USN (Ret.), President Infinity Aero Club Tampa Bay, Mr. Earl Johnson, SGT., U.S. Marine Corps (Veteran), LCDR Ryan McCue, U.S. Coast Guard Aeronautical Engineer, and MH-65 Helicopter Instructor Pilot / Flight Examiner, AET1 Lindsey Cassel, Avionics Electrical Technician, Flight Mechanic, U.S. Coast Guard Recruiter

Ms. Latanya Collier, Airport Manager, Los Angeles County Public Works, Ms. Denise Bayers, and Ambassadors. Ms. Melissa Johnston, Director of Flight Training Centers and Mr. Matt Johnston, President, California Aeronautical University, Dr. John Marselus, Department Chair Aviation, Col. U.S. Air Force (Ret.), Mr. Nick Read, General Manager, Atlantic Aviation,

Mr. Brandon Gallardo-Arias, 1st Generation Mexican American, 20 years old, Ms. Gallardo-Arias a.k.a. Mom. Ms. Cayenne Gutierrez, 15-year-old and building an airplane. Mr. Charlie Gutierrez, a.k.a. Dad. Mr. Michael Segal, Attorney, F-15 Pilot U.S. Air Force Reserve.

Ms. Nathali Duran Camou, National Guard, LCDR Nathan Shakespeare, MH-65 Helicopter Instructor Pilot / Flight Examiner, U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Ventura Liaison Officer, LCDR Zach Diiulio, U.S. Coast Guard Supply officer, MH-65 Helicopter Pilot, AMT1 Cody Reed, MH-65 Helicopter flight mechanic, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Mr. Tim Reid, Airport Manager, Mojave Air & Space Port, Mr. Jon Slikker, Ag Pilot, Vince Dusters, Mr. Ron Pierce, Aviation Historian, Director, CEO, Minter Field Museum.

We welcome you to join the tour! So, what is your hobby?

ON YOUR WAY TO BEING A Pilot

By Madyson Schulze

Have you ever thought about what would happen if you were on a flight and the pilot needed someone to fly? Would you be the person to step up and help, or would you be in the mess of chaos taking place in the back? If you decided to get your pilot's license, you would always be prepared.

There are many ways that you can get started with aviation at different ages! You can either go through the military, or just get lessons from your local airport. Although it may seem time-consuming and like the process would last forever, it may be just a little simpler than you think. According to academyofaviation.com, there are five steps to getting your license:

1. Earn your private pilot certificate (must be at least 17)

2. Earn your instrument and multi-engine ratings

3. Earn your commercial pilot certificate (more experience is better money)

4. Earn your certified flight instructor certificates (helps you make a living)

5. Gain your experience and a minimum of 1500 flight hours.

Another possible way of flying would be to try glider planes. In a glider plane, you are towed up by a bigger plane that contains an engine, then unconnected and left to glide back down. For this variation, you only have to be 16 years old and cleared of any medical conditions that could prevent you from the safe operation of the plane, according to soaringacademy. org. This website also mentions that you need a minimum of twenty glider flights, ten hours of instruction, and ten solo flights. You must also pass the FAA knowledge test, as well as the oral and flight test with an FAA examiner.

The type of aviation I grew up around was within the military. In an interview with my dad, a test pilot for the Air Force, I learned in depth about another common way into flying. He started out at the Naval Academy, a four year college in Annapolis, Maryland that gives both traditional academics, as well as, teaching leadership and how to be an officer. When graduating from there, one goes on to either the Navy or Marine Corps. He graduated as a second lieutenant

in the Marines. After graduation, he moved on to six months of learning to be an officer, and another two years of flight school, where he earned his wings of gold, a designated winged pilot in the Marine Corps. Next, he learned how to fly the jet that he would be operating overseas for the military for about a year.

My father and I discussed that there are other ways of getting into aviation. One avenue would be to go straight to flight school for the military, which only requires a college degree. Another way would be to start taking lessons as a kid. If you go to your local small airport, more times than not, there will be instructors that can teach you how to fly. These instructors would start with ground school. This includes learning about aerodynamics, weather, and basic rules about flying (sort-of like the ones you learn when you get your driver’s license). The next step would be getting in about 25 hours of flight time with your instructor. Once those hours are completed, you will have your private license. However, this license is only good for flying a small plane in good weather. If you wanted to fly a plane through clouds, or something similar, you would need additional instruction. “If it’s something you think you might be interested in. but don’t really know, a lot of small places will take you for an orientational flight to see if it’s something you enjoy,” said the interviewee.

So, if you think aviation is something you would enjoy, try it out! There are many ways to learn; just pick the one that seems best for you!

I am an AG PILOT

My alarm goes off at 4:00 am, and I can smell the pot of coffee brewing in the kitchen. I set it the night before to give myself an extra few minutes of sleep in the morning. The dogs begin to yawn and stretch as I groggily roll out of bed. I throw on shorts and a t-shirt as I let the dogs out. I pour my coffee and pack my snacks for the day. I finish feeding the dogs and then move on to the outside animals. With everyone fed, I quickly brush my teeth, wrangle my hair into a braid, and put on some sunscreen. The time is now 4:30 am, and I am getting in my truck to head to work.

I pull up to the farm airstrip at 4:45 am. The crew is there getting the airplanes ready while I review the flying schedule. We sit down for the morning brief at 5:00 am. Once everyone is briefed and safety procedures have been discussed, we hit the ground running. Everyone heads to their airplane to finish their preflight, and one-by-one, we get loaded, are handed a map, and fire up our engines. The first airplane takes off, and the time is now 5:25 am, just a few minutes before sunrise. I relish this golden hour of flight. Sunrises are much more hopeful than sunsets in my opinion. The air is cool and crisp, there is just a flicker of a breeze beginning, and it feels like you can accomplish anything. I try to hold onto that feeling and remember it as the air becomes more turbulent with each passing hour of daylight.

The above description is my daily morning routine from mid-May to mid-September every year. We will fly until

By Emily Daniel

we run out of work or the weather forces us to park the airplanes. In the early part of the season, we run out of work first. When we hit mid-season, the weather becomes the primary reason we shut down, and the work begins to pile up. We go as fast as we can, safely, for those few busy weeks.

So, what exactly do I do? I am a crop duster, agricultural pilot, aerial applicator. These terms all describe the same activity, known today as aerial application.

While I am a third generation pilot, when growing up I had no aspiration to pursue aviation as a career.

I enjoyed flying, but I had the ultimate goal of studying meteorology to become a broadcast meteorologist, flying for fun on my days-off, and learning aerobatics. My dad, who was one of my instructors, encouraged me to obtain all of my ratings regardless. He explained that additional ratings and training would make me a better, safer pilot. I am so glad I listened. When I reached the end of college, I had interned and worked weekends at a local television station for weather. I had gone on to get my multi-engine and commercial ratings, competed in the Air Race Classic, and had been working on my CFI at the time. Something in my gut did not feel right about my career choice, and I decided to take a leap to switch careers back to aviation.

I had begun dating my husband at the time, who had introduced me to his family business, an aerial application business in New Jersey, only about an hour from my

childhood home. I began working weekends and spent the summer working on the ground loading airplanes, digitizing maps, and doing a lot of what we call the “grunt work”. Within a week I was hooked. There was something really special about this type of work. It was aviation, but it was also farming. The work we were doing really made a difference in helping farmers and our local economy. Being a part of the agricultural process deeply resonated with me, which is the reason I chose to pursue a career in this profession.

PROPELLING THE PROGRESS OF AG AVIATION

It was a lot easier said than done. Although I was family by this time, I was not able to just hop in the plane and fly. At the majority of aerial application companies, pilots without prior aerial application experience start on the ground loading airplanes and learning how the operation works, sometimes for as much as two years without prior agriculture or farming experience. While many people assume this is what pilots have to do in order to “pay their dues”, this trial period actually acts as an interview process. It allows the aspiring pilot to learn how the business works, learn the chemistry side of things, learn basic aircraft maintenance, and how to handle different emergency situations from other pilots, among many other things. Similarly, this trial period allows the employer to see how the aspiring pilot acts in a multitude of scenarios. Does the person have a strong work ethic? How does he or she handle pressure and stress? Does this person treat both equipment and people with respect? The answers to these questions and many more are all answered during this period in time. It takes a lot of trust and patience for both parties to put a new pilot in an airplane. Insurance and training costs add up significantly, in addition to the time spent by the employer to train the pilot during the first several seasons.

After that summer, my husband and I traveled for a few years during his Air Force pilot training. Although I was away from the agricultural side of things, I took every opportunity to advance myself as a pilot. I flew jumpers and charter flights, then I finished my CFI, and went on to obtain my CFII. I instructed at all the local airports on our journey, and received the Lubbock FSDO CFI of the Year award in 2017. Each summer I would travel back home to stay current in tailwheel aircraft, and I began flying the Piper Pawnee, practicing takeoffs and landings, learning the GPS, and eventually, practicing with water.

I had significantly more flying experience under my belt when we moved back

home and that summer I flew my first successful season in the Piper Pawnee. I learned a lot that year about flying and myself. I understood that I was brand new to this profession and I did my best to soak up every bit of knowledge I could.

I learned early on to never stop learning, because that is when a pilot becomes dangerous. To this day, I do my best to keep learning and pushing myself to become a better pilot than I was the day before.

After my time in the Pawnee, I moved on to fly the Weatherly. The Weatherly is powered by a 450-hp Pratt & Whitney R985. Flying radials and using them as work engines taught me a lot about energy management and how to treat an airplane properly. It also taught me to listen to my engine at all times and be prepared for anything, always having a field picked out to dead stick into if needed.

It had been a shared dream between my husband and I to take over his family business, and it was around this time, as well, that we began the purchase of the company.

am an AG PILOT

Solely relying on the business for our income, we decided to take a leap and expand our operations into turbine aircraft. Today, we own three turbine Air Tractors, and still have a Weatherly and a Pawnee that we use for newer pilots and smaller field applications. We apply products on a variety of crops, including cranberries, blueberries, corn, soybeans, wheat, and more. In the Fall, we spread

Association (NAAA). I attended my first convention after my first season flying, and was overwhelmed at the amount of support I received and the

types of agriculture, both conventional and organic. It is also a very overlooked career choice in aviation. Aerial application treats approximately 71 million acres annually, and is vital in providing a safe, affordable, and abundant food supply for a growing global population. It has come a long way in its 100 years of history, and is now a very combine two passions of mine, aviation and agriculture, challenging, and rewarding. Even after a long day of flying when I am absolutely exhausted, I look forward to going to sleep so that I may wake up and do it all over again.

AviNation Museum Directory Showcase

805.238.9317 ewarbirds.org

Do you know about flight test?

Do you know about flight test?

Learn how test pilots and engineers apply STEM principles in developing new aircraft, experiments, and advances in aerospace at Edwards AFB, home of the Air Force’s Test Center. FREE resources, classes, lessons, and materials for all learners.

Learn how test pilots and engineers apply STEM principles in developing new aircraft, experiments, and advances in aerospace at Edwards AFB, home of the Air Force’s Test Center. FREE resources, classes, lessons, and materials for all learners.

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Building an airplane is the ultimate project for groups, individuals and clubs. Zenith Aircraft Company supplies great designs, shipped as complete kits (with advanced nal hole size match drilled parts) that are easy, simple and fun to build. zenithair.com

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METRO AVIATION IS MORE THAN A DREAM JOB, A GREAT CULTURE, AND A PAYCHECK. Metro is a lifestyle. Chase your dreams. We'll support you with work-life integration and an investment in your health, wealth, and career journey.

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