Ask any pilot about taking to the skies for the very first time and they'll tell you it's a thrill that stays with you forever. And for one extraordinary Sumner County high school senior, that first flight is a moment she'll never forget! Prepare for take-off with us as we sit down with Liberty Creek High School student Addison DeWitt to talk about her aviation journey–one that started early in a high school classroom and ultimately led her to the wide open skies.
GL: Where did your passion for flying come from, and when was the moment you knew you wanted to fly?
AD: I always loved traveling and exploring new places. So, when I started the Intro to Aerospace class [at Liberty Creek High School] and discovered my love for flight, pursuing a career in the field just seemed like a perfect fit. The moment I knew I wanted to fly would probably be my first flight in a small plane. It was almost two years ago with the EAA Young Eagles Organization, and I was sitting in the right seat of a Cessna 172. I loved the feeling of being able to see out of the cockpit and into the sky.
GL: What was the process of your ground studies and flight training, and how did you incorporate or balance that into your other high school studies?
AD: I began learning basic flight knowledge in class, and then I used Sporty's online courses to accelerate my progress. I started formal training with Jet Access [at the Gallatin airport], flying three times a week, weather permitting. Balancing school and flight lessons was challenging, but I rose to the challenge with AP courses, exams and college planning.
GL: What are your career goals and aspirations, and what do you love most about flying?
AD: I'm considering a career as an international airline captain; this would allow me to continue traveling and exploring the world while being in control of the sky, which is an exhilarating feeling that's hard to put into words. While my career path is still tentative and dependent on opportunities, I'm excited about the prospect of pursuing this goal.
GL: What advice would you give to other students who might have an interest in aviation?
AD: More than half of those who start flight training end up quitting. I think the most important thing to remind these students is how rewarding it will be once it's over. The process is not easy, and there are definitely moments that make you question why you even started. But, once it's over, you'll appreciate every part, even the worst ones.
GL: Who has been influential or a mentor in your aviation journey?
AD: The aviation community in Gallatin has been so supportive throughout my journey. My original aviation teacher, Chris Peterson, has been there to provide advice and encouragement every step of the way. My flight instructor, Luke Sweeney, was incredibly thorough and helpful throughout flight training. Every pilot and crew member I have met has been so willing to share their experience and guide me toward getting my license.
"Aviation provides so many opportunities, and I am looking forward to being able to do for others what this community has done for me."