This past weekend I was definitely a little bummed to miss the Women in Aviation International conference that I usually attend every year, but instead of sharing my annual conference photos I’m excited to share REALLY EXCITING news!!!
Last week I was selected and celebrated as the recipient of the Professional Pilot Scholarship (a generous scholarship up to $8,000) from the Colorado Aviation Business Association, and I will be using the funds for my multi-engine rating which is a HUGE next step for me progressing in my career as a pilot in business aviation.
I’m so thankful for the organizations and people who have supported me along the way 🛩️🤍🥹
Through 2025, I carried a feeling that I hadn’t achieved much or moved forward the way I hoped while chasing my career path. It felt like progress was stalled.
But going back through these photos told a very different story.
I started the year earning my Commercial Pilot License, attended the Women in Aviation International Conference, accepted three scholarships—including one at the international level that took me to Toronto—graduated w/ an aviation degree from my Part 141 training program, spoke at multiple industry events, played in a business aviation golf tournament, watched the Thunderbirds at an airshow, and this December returned home from Minnesota as a Certified Flight Instructor.
Sometimes progress doesn’t speak loudly, and sometimes it works out in ways you never had planned. Carrying that into 2026.
Almost forgot to tell ya…I did a thing- graduated Magna Cum Laude from my part 141 flight training & aviation degree program!! It’s about damn time 🥳🎓onto bigger & better (& hopefully higher)🛩️☁️
Ever wonder how pilots navigate through the clouds? It’s not magic, it’s How to Fly IFR.
Use code CAITLIN & add this book to your toolkit- because even your GPS needs a backup! Find the link in my bio ☁️🛩️
Y’ALL I woke up feeling SO BLESSED & GRATEFUL today! I returned from Toronto to my home state of Colorado just last night and WOW do I have happy news to share.
The past few days I received the opportunity to travel to Toronto, Canada with a guest of choice to the Women in Transportation International Conference to be recognized as a scholarship recipient at their annual gala.
You may ask why I brought my dad to a “women’s event” & that’s because he has been my biggest supporter from the day I started this journey. Thank you dad for not telling me “only boys are pilots” when I told you my crazy idea of becoming one and to the allies who go all in to make sure we are represented & appreciated as the 6% of pilots worldwide.
This conference also really opened my eyes to how interconnected everything is and I loved learning more about the infrastructure and engineering aspects that support all of the various modes of transportation. Being surrounded by so many INCREDIBLE & ACCOMPLISHED female leaders across several fields was so inspiring! #womeninstem #womenintransportation #wts #womeninaviation
Today I had the opportunity to be a first time student attendee at the Colorado Transportation Symposium thanks to both Kiewit and Kimley-Horn.
I was incredibly grateful to share my speech in the welcoming address alongside fellow scholarship recipients- and even the Governor. While my focus is typically in the skies, it was inspiring to gain insight into vital work happening on the ground in transportation and engineering. A valuable reminder of how all modes of mobility are connected- and the people too!
WAI Conference does it again! Each year I am surrounded by powerhouse women in aviation- learning from, connecting with, and empowering one another.
If you know me, you know my flying journey has been a little quiet lately and I’ve been grounded more than I’d like, but this conference was everything I didn’t know I needed!
Here’s to progressing forward, even when it feels like you’re behind and like life is taking the scenic route. Trust your journey and surround yourself with people who lift you! 🩵
Update! The end of January was a bit overwhelming for me as I’ve continued to progress in my aviation career. Good news first! 👩🏼✈️🛩️🎂🥂
⭐️ I earned my Commercial Pilots License
⭐️ I attended a WTS luncheon where I was recognized as a scholarship recipient
With these accomplishments and the recent news in the aviation industry I have been reflecting quite a bit on what a career as a pilot means. This has all been a reminder of the trust people place in the hands of pilots, and it motivates me to continue learning, training, and working toward ensuring safety in my career. Life is fragile and every moment is so unbelievably precious. My heart goes out to the passengers, crew, and families whose lives have been affected by the recent tragedies. It’s okay to feel uncomfortable with the thought of travel and flying, but remember to continue trusting in the abilities of pilots who are dedicated to your safety!🤍
