AV8 Questions: Kelsey Small

Interview with Kelsey Small, Flight Instructor & Program Manager at AV8 Flight

When did you become interested in aviation? Not until I was 18 and wasn’t sure what I wanted to study in college. I was interested in working a job that wasn’t in an office or a traditional 8-5. I didn’t know a thing about aviation or what pursuing a career as a pilot would be like.

Are your family or friends interested in flying? I am a first generation pilot, but I have brought both of my parents flying. My mom got airsick, and my dad said he felt like “he was in a hot air balloon that was going to explode”. I brought many of my college roommates flying while I was in training and they all loved it.

How did your career in aviation begin? Shortly after my discovery flight, I was accepted into South Dakota State University and decided to study aviation there. I finished all of my ratings in 3 years and flight instructed there as I was finishing up my degree. After graduation, I moved back home and started instructing with AV8.

Has your career evolution followed an expected path? I wouldn’t say that I necessarily planned a path, I just knew my end goal was to become an airline pilot. After learning the ropes of the industry, I wanted to become a flight instructor to gain experience for the airlines.

Do you have a favorite aspect of your work? The feeling and freedom of flying is what I truly enjoy. I also really enjoy the environment of AV8’s instructors and students, and the people I get to work with every day. Flying wouldn’t be the same without the people I am surrounded by.

Is there a time in aviation history, or aircraft that you find most fascinating? I don’t have a specific favorite, but overall I enjoy seeing how much the industry has changed and developed in such a short amount of time.

When was your favorite industry related event? The first time I went to the airshow in Oshkosh, WI. I had never seen so many people that excited about aviation, and there were endless things to see. I will never forget the feeling of walking around all of the booths and airplanes the first time I went there.

What is the future of flight for you? As I wrap up my time instructing with AV8, I plan to start flying with a regional airline. I am excited to advance my career gaining experience in a jet and hope to eventually fly the 757.

Thanks to Kelsey for taking part in the series, AV8 Questions: Interviews with Aviators! It’s easy to see that Kelsey enjoys so much about aviation and the opportunity to instruct at AV8 Flight School and work as Program Manager. AV8 Flight is lucky to have Kelsey on the team, helping others to achieve their dreams of becoming a pilot!

Have questions about becoming a pilot? Contact us at AV8 Flight School and we’ll be happy to answer any questions and help you to get flying!

AV8 Questions: Interviews with Aviators