I’m always impressed when I read about programs targeting the next generation of aviators, like the Central Florida Aerospace Academy, the Lakeland Aero Club, the Tango Thirty One Clube, or Teen Flight.
These programs have helped many aspiring aviators take to the sky or the wrench.
But they also represent a heavy lift. It took intestinal fortitude, patience, money, and time to get these programs rolling and keep them rolling.
What if, in addition to these all-in programs, there was a simpler option for those of us not able to start the next Teen Flight chapter? It could be of similar value at a much lower cost of entry.
A recent email from the Green River chapter of the Washington Pilots Association hit my inbox recently and has just such an idea…
“Justin Treat of Enumclaw Airport has a low-key way to start….the airport receives calls and emails from time to time from people interested in aviation that don’t know how to get started so we are building a list of people to whom he can refer callers for advice and a bit of mentorship.”
That’s it.
Be willing to put your name and contact information on a list and listen to and guide a would-be aviator on their journey.
When someone calls your local airport seeking information about flying or wrench turning or air traffic control — you know, aviation — the person fielding the call can connect that caller with an interested aviation-minded person.
Justin told me he most often fields calls from parents of would-be aviators. And he’s already referred a few callers to mentors from the list WPA is putting together.
I’ve written about family friend Sam before. While I don’t think I functioned as a true mentor, I did check in from time to time and poked and prodded. Sam is now a first officer for a regional airline in the midwest. And I couldn’t be prouder of him.
There is no single solution to solving the challenges of aviation. We will continue to share the stories of all types of nextgen programs. And now we will add “The List” to those programs.
So what do you think? Are you willing to add your name to the list?
I have been flying Powered Parachutes, fixed wing ultralights, and weight shift aircrafts or trikes since 2006. I have my Instructor Rating for Powered parachutes in Canada and I am quite willing to talk to or help others to get their Canadian Ultralight Pilot Permit.
Ben, I would like to join too. I have lots of experience in the airport side of GA (leasing, development, special events (including the Reno Air Races)), another avenue for tomorrow’s aviation family members.
Full-time middle school teacher. EAA, AOPA, working in CFI, CFII, and MEI. Willing to put my name on the list. Multiple avenues should make it easier to connect with parents. Texarkana, AR & TX area.
Yes! Without question I will put my name on a list. What a great idea. Developing a mentorship listing at the local airport would be a highly productive resource for all those who seek info but don’t know where to turn.
Good piece Ben. Of course the list is one effort. Another, that bypasses that parent “filter” is one that worked pretty well up in semi rural NH when I had my fbo there and later from my A&P teaching days. The school system had career days. As the local focal point I could field questions about A&P, GA and military flying but often drug an off duty airline pilot with me. An easy step for anyone/group is to approach your local high school and offer to take one or more pilots to their career day or even just get in through their science program to put yourself where the students can ask…… LOL. Be careful what you wish for. Go prepared. My favorite answer, both in school presentations and when I teach (A&P and CFI) is “I don’t know … BUT I know where WE can find out.” Unfortunately also comes the caution that in our litigious society be careful taking the discussion outside the “safe, school” environment…
People interested in general aviation, should be referred to the nearest EAA chapter.
Besides pilots giving ‘Young Eagle’ flights to kids age 8 to 17, they also will do ‘Eagle’ flights for anyone over age 17.
Most chapters have a number of pilots ready to give a free flight in a Cessna, Piper, Mooney, or experimental aircraft.
So, no list required….the info is readily available through any EAA chapter.