Kent State University | August 2026 - Present
In June 2026, I began the next stage of my aviation journey at Kent State University. I am in the Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot program. After earning my Private Pilot Certificate through Part 61 training, I wanted a more structured approach to training, so I enrolled in Kent's Part 141 flight training program. This will allow me to continue to develop important skills that I will translate into any roles I may earn in the future. Beyond the cockpit, at Kent State, I will continue to learn important skills through academic coursework, professional networking and opportunities, and involvement in a few aviation organizations. I am also preparing for the next stages of flight training, including the transition to the Cessna 172S and its Garmin G1000 avionics. As I move through the program at Kent State, I plan to build on my existing experience, develop new skills, and gain a broader understanding of the aviation industry.
Fundamentals Flight Training | May 2023 - June 2026
On May 1st, 2023, at 15 years of age, I enrolled in a Private Pilot ground school at Fundamentals Flight Training in Erie, PA. I went on to take my first training flight with them on May 31st, 2023. While training with Fundamentals, I had the opportunity to learn from three different flight instructors. Each instructor provided a different perspective on flying, exposing me to different instructional styles and techniques. Because of this, I had to learn to be receptive to feedback, adapt to different teaching styles, and take an active role in my own learning. Fundamentals Flight Training is located at a towered airport (KERI), which gave me valuable experience communicating with air traffic control and operating within a more structured airport environment. These experiences taught me how to maintain consistent procedures and work for a safe cockpit environment. My training at Fundamentals lasted about three years, not because my interest in aviation changed, but because I was balancing it with the many commitments that came with high school. Athletics, academics, extracurricular activities, and employment often competed for my time, while the northeastern weather and scheduling limited opportunities to fly. This made consistency one of the more challenging aspects of my training. Though there were some setbacks, I learned valuable skills such as maintaining knowledge over time, staying updated on changes both in my school and the industry, and rebuilding proficiency after time away.
Fort LeBoeuf High School | August 2022 - June 2026
During my four years at Fort LeBoeuf High School, I maintained a strong academic record while pursuing many of my interests both in and out of the classroom. I graduated with Summa Cum Laude recognition each year and participated in advanced coursework, including AP and Honors level classes, as well as dual-enrollment through two collegiate programs. I developed a specific interest in mathematics and physics, completing almost all of the math and physics courses offered by my high school. I also took an interest in engineering and hands-on learning classes. I took CAD I and II, a computer skills class, and a woodworking course, where I designed and built projects such as a chessboard. Outside the classroom, I participated in an engineering competition team called TEAM-S, as well as National Honor Society. I also loved to participate in service projects, both through National Honor Society, my Gifted program, and individual projects outside of the high school. Athletics were another important part of my high school experience. I played four years of varsity soccer, serving as team captain for my final two years, and was also a member of the golf team for two seasons. During my senior season as captain, our soccer team earned its first playoff victory in six seasons, laying the foundation for future success.
Delta Sonic Car Wash - Erie, PA | April 2024 - Present
At Delta Sonic, I work in the Detail Shop in the role of Detail Customer Advisor. This role is primarily customer-facing and combines sales, service, and daily operations. I am often the first person customers speak with when arriving, so I am responsible for understanding their needs, explaining available services, and making recommendations if needed. Because I am the first point of contact, I am also responsible for addressing customer concerns, including membership issues and any dissatisfaction with completed services. I learned to assess each situation, resolve issues within my authority, and recognize when a concern needed to be escalated to management. In addition to customer service, I am responsible for operating and securing the cash register and ensuring that it was balanced at the end of each day. I also participate in weekly Sunday night scheduled maintenance, completing maintenance checklists in the Detail Shop. This includes servicing vacuum cleaners and water extractors, inspecting and changing the oil on the conveyor motor, and greasing the belt motor, power units, and rollers. I also took the initiative to expand my knowledge of the services I was selling by learning them. I took it upon myself to be trained in advanced services like headlight restorations and ceramic coating applications. This allowed me to better explain services to customers and provide more informed recommendations. My experience at Delta Sonic strengthened my customer communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, and ability to follow established procedures, all of which I can translate to any future aviation-based roles.
Lake Erie Hockey Officials - Erie, PA | October 2021 - Present
As a hockey referee with Lake Erie Hockey Officials, I am responsible for maintaining player safety, enforcing USA Hockey or NCAA rules, and ensuring fair and consistent play. I officiate boys' and girls' games across multiple age groups, beginning with U10 and U12 hockey and progressing to higher levels of competition. In my most recent season, I also began officiating collegiate hockey games, expanding my experience to a faster and more demanding level of play. Communication is an essential part of my role. I work with one to three officiating partners to coordinate responsibilities, maintain consistent rule enforcement, and manage game situations. I also have to communicate many decisions directly to coaches, players, and scorekeepers, as well as communicate during play with everyone on the ice. When conflicts arise involving players, coaches, or spectators, I must remain composed and professional at all times, while applying the rules and using my conflict management skills. Beyond officiating, I help train and support newer officials, including providing guidance during their first games. I also participate in development opportunities, including officiating the Erie Otters' preseason scouting camp for the Ontario Hockey League, a Tier I development league for professional hockey. These experiences continue to strengthen my knowledge of the game, decision-making, communication, and ability to perform under pressure.
References available upon request. For Delta Sonic Car Wash, all references will be coordinated through the HR department in accordance with company policy. References for both education and work experience are available.