“My journey into aviation was, quite honestly, a surprise. Standing at 6’2” since ninth grade, I was convinced that my future lay in basketball—playing in college, competing overseas, and eventually becoming an Athletic Director for a Division I school. But life had other plans.
After the world reopened post-COVID, I found myself at a dinner table with a close friend, a JetBlue flight attendant. As he shared his experiences, I pushed back against his encouragement to apply for an airline job, yet I couldn’t shake the intrigue of the lifestyle and the adventure it promised. That night, I applied—just for fun, nothing serious. Within a month, I was hired by Frontier Airlines, marking the beginning of my unexpected but fulfilling career in aviation.
From Cabin Crew to Cockpit
Life as a flight attendant introduced me to many aspects of aviation, but one recurring conversation always stood out—transitioning from the cabin to the flight deck. During a layover, a pilot overheard one of these discussions and encouraged us to explore the process of becoming pilots. He could tell I was intrigued but hesitant, so he pushed me further: “Just try a discovery flight.”
That seed of encouragement took root. I found myself once again unable to stop thinking about a big, crazy idea. I searched for discovery flights on Groupon—just for fun, nothing serious. That “fun” turned into passion, and I knew I had found my purpose.
Why Skyborne?
I was fortunate to be accepted into Delta Propel’s Academy Pathway, which led me to Skyborne Airline Academy. As someone who had already begun flying before joining, I immediately recognized the value of Skyborne’s structure and discipline. The academy mirrors the industry’s expectations—strict protocols, higher standards than FAA regulations, and an emphasis on personal and professional accountability.
Having worked for an airline, I understand that the transition from student pilot to airline pilot needs to be seamless. Skyborne provides that preparation, ensuring that when I step into my airline career, I’m not just ready—I’m thriving.
Sisters of the Skies: A Scholarship That Changed Everything
A year ago, I joined Sisters of the Skies, an organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting Black women in aviation. At that time, I had the dream but lacked a focused plan. I was still a flight attendant with only 20 scattered flight hours. Joining Sisters of the Skies gave me clarity, accountability, and an unwavering support system.
They pushed me to take action, and with their encouragement, I secured my first-class medical, passed my written exams, got accepted into Delta Propel, and am now just a few lessons away from my checkride. Receiving the Sisters of the Skies Scholarship has been one of the most life-changing moments of my career. It confirmed that I am walking in my purpose.
This organization has become my blueprint—not just for achieving success but for lifting others as I climb. I am beyond grateful and incredibly excited to pay it forward to the next generation of aviators.
Advice for Women Aspiring to Become Pilots
To every woman out there dreaming of a career in aviation, my advice is simple: You belong here. The only validation you need is from the Federal Aviation Administration—earn those certificates, get those ratings, and boldly take up space in this industry.
Aviation needs more women, more diversity, and more stories like ours. I can’t wait to meet you in the flight deck!”
– Cache A.
