Name: Jon Marlinski
Course: FAA 141 Program
From Commercial to Multi-Engine: Jon Marlinski’s Skyborne Journey
For Skyborne student Jon Marlinski, reaching the end of Commercial training represents more than another milestone in his flight training. It’s a reminder of just how far he has come, with a new chapter already on the horizon as he prepares to begin his multi-engine training.
One of the most meaningful moments for Jon was receiving his stripes.
“Having the actual stripes in my hand, a tangible symbol that makes all the work and hours feel both real and worthwhile!”
Beyond the physical milestone, Jon says his biggest accomplishment has been seeing his own growth throughout commercial training.
Looking back at the skills he struggled with when he first began and comparing them to where he is now has given him a clear picture of his progress.
For Jon, the progress he has made reinforces the importance of staying open to learning.
“I think it’s important in this industry to always be open to learning and doing better with each passing day, and it really pays off when you can actually see that in your progress and training!”
Next Stop: Multi-Engine
With Commercial behind him, Jon is looking ahead to his next challenge: flying the Piper Seminole.
He’s especially excited to experience his first flight in a complex aircraft and knows that mastering a new airplane will come with its own challenges that lead to long-term rewards.
“It will be my first time flying a complex aircraft, and albeit challenging I believe it will feel rewarding to master flying this airplane.”
Finding Community Along the Way
While the flying itself has been a major part of Jon’s experience, one of the things that surprised him most has been the relationships he’s built with his classmates.
“The biggest surprise is how close I’ve grown with many of my classmates, as well as the support we all provide each other.”
Jon recognizes that flight training is a significant undertaking, and having a strong support system has made the experience more manageable.
“I believe it would have been much more difficult without that support.”
Jon’s advice to new students is simple: focus on your own journey.
“Don’t compare your journey, your progress to anyone else’s. Everyone has their own path when it comes to their training here, and it’s important to make the most of your own without comparing to others.”
For Jon, progress doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. What matters is continuing to move forward, putting in the work and doing your best.
“So long as you are making progress and doing your best, you are where you need to be.”
With his commercial phase complete and multi-engine training ahead, Jon’s journey at Skyborne continues, one milestone, one lesson and one flight at a time.
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