In the vast expanse of our careers, few of us dare to venture beyond the familiar horizon. Yet, there are those who, driven by an unyielding passion, embark on journeys that transform their lives and inspire others. I am one such individual, having transitioned from a 20-year tenure in post-secondary education, information technology, and marketing, to the demanding and exhilarating world of aviation. This is my story, a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the unspoken camaraderie found in the skies.
The Call to Change
At the age of 38, standing at the crossroads of contentment and ambition, I found myself yearning for a change. The world of aviation, with its blend of precision, adventure, and the spirit of exploration, beckoned. It was a calling that resonated with my deepest aspirations, urging me to step into a realm where the sky is not a limit but a beginning. Thus began my long and ardently fought journey to become a professional pilot.
From Ground to Sky
My path was not paved with immediate take-offs. Before I could soar, I had to learn the essence of flight from the ground up—literally. Joining North Cariboo Air, I spent two years working the ramp. For someone in their 40s, this phase was both humbling and physically demanding. It was a period of profound learning and reflection, a time when the glamour of flight was grounded in the reality of hard work, perseverance, and the gritty details of aviation operations.
The Flight Path
My journey took flight from the rugged landscapes of Northern Alberta, charting a course through the ranks of regional airlines, including WestJet Encore, to the sophisticated cockpits of midsize business jets at AirSprint. Each transition was a leap of faith, a testament to the skills honed in the skies and the lessons learned on the ground.
Leveraging the Past
The transition from marketing to aviation was not merely a change in profession but a strategic maneuver that leveraged my past experiences. Marketing, with its emphasis on communication, strategy, and customer focus, became an invaluable asset, subsidizing my career change and helping support my family during this pivotal period. The skills cultivated in my previous career were not left behind but redefined, enabling me to navigate the aviation industry’s unique challenges and opportunities.
Mentorship in the Clouds
The journey was not solitary. Along the way, mentors and colleagues shared their wisdom, guiding me through turbulence and towards clearer skies. Their generosity underscored the importance of mentorship in aviation—a field where knowledge is not just acquired but passed on, where every flight can be a lesson in leadership, teamwork, and humility.
Conclusion: Extending a Hand
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the power of change and the importance of mentorship. It is in this spirit that I share my story, hoping to inspire those who dream of flight to embark on their own journeys. Through a new website dedicated to growing mentorship in aviation, I aim to extend a hand to the next generation of pilots, offering guidance, support, and the assurance that it is never too late to pursue your dreams. In the world of aviation, every horizon is a new beginning, every challenge a lesson, and every flight a step towards becoming not just a pilot, but a mentor to those who will navigate the skies and beyond.
