3 minute read
Celebrating the Spirit of Volunteerism at Infinity Aero Club of Tampa Bay
By Ricardo Foster
Aviation enthusiasts gathered for the Infinity Aero Club of Tampa Bay’s (iACT) annual Volunteer & Sponsor Appreciation Ceremony on October 15, 2023. This heartfelt event, hosted at a venue buzzing with excitement, aimed to honor the dedication and hard work of volunteers and sponsors, the backbone of iACT.
The ceremony unfolded with awards recognizing outstanding contributions. Amanda Wyandt, Bob Clark, Tom Barlow, Janna Velez, Tyson Mickie, Nicole Humphreys, Juneann Lewis, and James Heer—these names, echoing with applause and cheers, represented the Outstanding Volunteers of the Quarter and Year, along with Outstanding Aviation Cadets, CFIs, sponsors, and pioneers in internships and entrepreneurship. The atmosphere felt more like a family gathering than a formal event.
The ceremony highlighted the vital role of volunteers, sponsors, and young aviators like Tristen Calderon, Sebastian Arbelaez, and others. It emphasized the community’s commitment to fostering a love for aviation, with CFIs like Rilee Brieden, Rob Serif, Phil Medick, Rand Volmer, Greg Spicola, Kunal Patel, and Walther Matthews turning the sky into a classroom and sponsors providing crucial support.
As the night concluded, gratitude extended to individual donors and corporate sponsors, including Jetline Systems, AMROC, 100 Black Men Gainesville Chapter, Gleim Aviation, Papa John’s Pizza, and Butler Drones Services, for their generosity. The event’s after-party became a lively celebration, echoing the spirit of unity and shared passion for aviation.
At Infinity Aero Club, the emphasis is not just on flying; it’s about soaring together as a force for change. The ceremony marked another lift-off in their extraordinary journey, leaving attendees with lasting memories and a sense of pride in their collective contribution.
Looking forward, iACT continues its mission as a member-only flying club with charitable and educational status, dedicated to uplifting communities and inspiring the next generation through STEM-Aviation initiatives.
In the spirit of volunteerism, the night affirmed that together, as a club and a community, they are reaching new horizons, fueled by the dreams and stories that take flight, much like the aircraft they love.
Explore the World of Infinity Aero Club
Discover the thrill of aviation with Infinity Aero Club, based at Tampa North Aero Park. Operating weekly activities every Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, and available by appointment Monday to Friday, our club offers a range of exciting opportunities.
Activities Include:
• Group or individual drone and private pilot training
• Careers in Aviation-STEM facility tours
• Introductory flights in simulators, drones, and aircraft
• Airplane flights are available for a suggested donation of $99, supporting our mission and programs.
Stay Connected:
Explore our organization and stay updated on upcoming events through various platforms:
Website: Infinity Aero Club infinityaeroclub.org
Facebook: Infinity Aero Club Page m.facebook.com/infinityaeroclub
YouTube: iACT Volunteer & Sponsor Appreciation Celebration Event https://youtu.be/hFFZ6VlAhtA?si=x4BYgp_ bhW-Uls1m
AviNation American Dream Tour: Southern California Stop https://youtu.be/84UVD44bhmc
AviNation American Dream Tour: Peoria, Illinois Stop https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5COc7drLj0
Media Feature: Fox News Feature https://www.fox13news.com/news/bay-areastem-program-helps-disadvantaged-teens-takedreams-to-new-heights
Infinity Aero Club is dedicated to building a community united by a passion for aviation and a commitment to STEM excellence. We invite you to soar higher with us, supported by the enthusiasm and dedication of our volunteers and sponsors.