DSU aviation students joined students from around the region for an Inspiration Flight aboard a C-17 aircraft from the Tennessee Air National Guard Base in Memphis.CLEVELAND, Miss. — Eight Delta State University aviation students recently participated in an exclusive Inspiration Flight organized by the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA). The flight, which took place on September 11 aboard a C-17 aircraft from the Tennessee Air National Guard Base in Memphis, aimed to provide students with hands-on exposure to aviation careers and opportunities within the U.S. Air Force.
The students who took part in this unique experience are Jonathan Butler, Donovan Hasley, Kevin Ho, Boyd McMichael, Brennan Miller, Simon Pereira, Aaron Rogers and Naoya Sakai. These future aviation professionals were given a rare opportunity to interact with rated aviators, gain valuable insights into military aviation, and explore potential pathways into Air Force careers through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).
Major Allen L. Williams, Chair of the Commercial Aviation Department at DSU said, “This event is in keeping with my objective to ensure our students are reminded of the military as just as viable an aviation career option as the commercial sector.”
The Inspiration Flight program is designed to introduce young people to aviation careers while fostering diversity within the Air Force’s pilot force. The experience showcases the excitement of flying and also provides an opportunity for students to envision themselves in key aviation roles, whether in the military or in the commercial sector.
Williams worked closely with representatives of the USAFA to identify Delta State students interested in aviation and a potential future with collegiate ROTC programs. The Inspiration Flight aligns with the broader mission of the U.S. Air Force to connect with America’s youth and increase diversity in aviation, both within the military and across commercial sectors. By exposing students to role models and pathways in aviation, the Air Force seeks to cultivate a diverse talent pool equipped to meet the needs of future national defense strategies.
For Delta State, the event is part of a continued effort to provide students with unparalleled real-world experiences that can open doors to prestigious career opportunities. The university’s Commercial Aviation program is known for its commitment to preparing students for a wide range of roles in aviation.
Interim Dean of the College of Business and Aviation Dr. Tomeka Harbin said, “Providing our students with access to multiple aviation careers ensures that our students understand the depth of the industry and the many career opportunities available.”
For more information about Delta State University’s Commercial Aviation program, please contact visit https://www.deltastate.edu/business-aviation/commercial-aviation/.
