The first time I sat in the left seat of an airplane – just me and my flight instructor – I was hooked. I loved the precision, the challenge and the freedom.
Later on, I became a flight instructor to help others experience that same thrill. Flying will always be part of who I am.
But here’s the twist: I built my career on the ground.
Most of my days now are spent on the business side of aviation. At NBAA, I lead an incredible team that plans major industry events and builds professional development programs. Together, we support a growing network of more than 10,000 business aviation professionals, including students and aspiring leaders like you.
“If you love aviation but don’t picture yourself as a pilot, that’s more than OK. In fact, that’s exactly what this industry needs.”
So, while I may not fly as often, my passion for aviation still drives me. Today, that means helping shape our industry’s future by advocating for funding and legislation that supports aviation careers and working to attract and retain a diverse, inclusive workforce.
And that’s the message I want to share with you.
If you love aviation but don’t picture yourself as a pilot, that’s more than OK. In fact, that’s exactly what this industry needs.
Business aviation depends on professionals from all walks of life: technicians, engineers, flight attendants, safety experts, software developers, drone pilots, schedulers, sustainability strategists, managers and more.
This issue introduces you to a few of them:
- Dylan Brown, who began his career loading baggage and later earned an engineering degree before working at the legendary Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. With added experience as a Georgia Air National Guard aircraft maintenance officer, he’s now a business aviation pilot.
- Ashlynn Brooks, a flight attendant who chose business aviation over the airlines – and discovered a career that fits her lifestyle, values and ambitions.
- Tony Reid, founder of Drone Cadets, an accredited, STEM-based drone pilot program that helps students build aviation skills and confidence from the ground up.
Each of these professionals proves there’s no one way into this industry. You can take what you love and turn it into something meaningful.
At NBAA, we’re here to help you explore what’s possible. Through scholarships, mentorships, internships and career resources, we’re invested in your success.
So, stay curious. Ask questions. Keep exploring. Because aviation isn’t just a job, it’s a community, and there’s a place in it for you.
You don’t have to fly to soar. But you do have to start.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.