Congratulations to Emily Skinner, who recently passed her Private Pilot practical test and officially became a certificated pilot! Emily completed Private Pilot Ground School at the Catalyst Center with Kailee, then began flight training with Cornerstone Aviation at the Ogden-Hinckley Airport.
We caught up with Emily to hear about her experience in the Catalyst Aviation program, pursuing flight training while still in high school, and her advice for other students interested in becoming a pilot:
How does it feel to officially be a pilot?
I feel so relieved and I’m so pumped, too! It feels so good to know that all the work I put into it has finally paid off too, so I’m just so happy and grateful!
When did you realize you wanted to start flight lessons?
I have been interested in becoming a pilot for some time and then learned about Catalyst’s aviation program, so I decided to give it a try and see what it was all about. Throughout Kailee's ground class, my interest in aviation grew a lot, and that’s when I realized I wanted to start flying.
What was the most helpful part of the Catalyst aviation program in helping you achieve your goal of becoming a pilot?
The ground school offered at Catalyst helped me develop an interest in flying but also showed me how challenging it is. It also prepared me and gave me a head start, which can save a lot of time and money. Also, it’s a great way to help you see if flying is right for you before making a big investment.
How did you manage flight lessons while still in high school? Any tips for students on how to make time and prioritize?
I would say take your time with training, but also stay consistent in making times for lessons each week. Prioritize your goals! And, reviewing topics on the ground even a little bit every day can really help.
What was the most challenging part of becoming a pilot, and how did you overcome it?
I’d say studying and staying disciplined enough to study every day was the most challenging part. I made it easier by making studying fun with flashcards and having family and friends quiz me. Also, actually going up and flying motivated me a ton to keep studying and going.
What are you planning on doing next?
I’m serving an LDS mission next, and when I get back, I want to continue my flight training and keep working toward my goals in aviation!
We are so proud of your hard work, Emily!