Young Aviators Soar to New Heights with California Baptist University

This summer, the Department of Aviation Science at California Baptist University partnered with the U.S. Air Force to host the Aim High Flight Academy. 

The two-week program provides high school students the opportunity to explore aviation as a potential career. CBU hosted two academy sessions, each with twelve high school age cadets who were selected through a competitive process. 

They came from across the country to CBU's campus in Southern California, some flying for the first time. CBU provided housing, meals, aviation Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), and planes. The Air Force sent ambassadors to mentor the students. CBU is one of two colleges in California that will host this program and one of only nine schools across the country that will host the academy. 

As one of the only universities to offer a full aviation science program, hosting the academy was a natural fit for CBU. Not only can students experience what CBU has to offer, but CBU can also be a part of the solution to addressing the issue of pilot shortages nationwide.

"The Aim High Flight Academy is an opportunity for students to develop valuable technical aeronautical skills and insights from experienced pilots," said Mikhalis Hike, a CBU CFI and Aim High Flight Academy program officer. "Seeing these students leave more inspired and better prepared to pursue excellence is what it's all about." 

During the camp, students obtain 15 flight hours, 15 hours of ground instruction, and 15 hours of simulator training at no cost to them.

During the ground-level instruction, students combine STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) practices to enhance their training, since each of these areas of study are required to foster growth in the aeronautical field.

"This training is important for several reasons. Students can learn essential piloting skills, including navigation, communication, and aircraft handling, which are fundamental for any aspiring aviator," said Air Force 2nd Lt. Kristopher Koberg, who is a past participant of the Aim High Flight Academy. "The mission of the Academy is to inform, influence, and inspire the next generation of aviators and leaders."

Christina Wilson, 16, from Washington, D.C., has dreamed of flying since she was a little girl. Her father was a naval flight officer who passed away suddenly in 2014. 

"When I found out about the Aim High Flight Academy, it became a way for me to see if flying could be in my future and a way to achieve a goal of his, all without having to worry about the financial burden and commitment to flight school," Wilson said. 

This program teaches students about the intricacies of becoming a pilot and offers a realistic and exciting approach to a career in aviation.

 Leigh Anna Speed, 17, from Texas, has enjoyed more than just flying during her time in this program. 

"I was given an opportunity to not only fly a plane but to gain new relationships with my CFIs and my peers," Speed said. "I've learned so much more than simply how to fly. I've learned about leadership, decision-making, and togetherness."