The Aviation Club at Seven Lakes High School is more than just a gathering of students with a shared interest in aviation; it’s a launchpad for future pilots and aeronautics enthusiasts. The club President Colin Stuckey aims to invite guest speakers, including industry professionals and experienced pilots, to share their knowledge and insights. This exposure to real-world experiences and advice is crucial for students preparing for their future careers. 

“We [planned] to watch ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and then attend an air show nearby,” Stuckey said. “It’s a small club [so] we can’t [have] a huge time commitment but in general, [it’s] pretty fun, pretty enjoyable, and something cool.”

Becoming a pilot can be challenging and rewarding, involving rigorous coursework, flight training, and a deep understanding of aeronautical principles. For instance, senior Marcus Racek is planning to go to college for a degree in aviation in hopes of becoming a professional pilot.

“I believe joining this [club] will give me the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve my dream of becoming a professional pilot,” Racek said. “[I like] aviation [because] it’s a

[secure] job: you get to travel the world, and you get to [see] clouds and its deployments.”

The club supports this ambition by offering a wealth of resources and personalized guidance to help members navigate the process of obtaining a private pilot’s license. This includes providing detailed information on the necessary steps, such as selecting a reputable flight school, understanding the financial commitments, and preparing for the various stages of flight training and examinations. 

“It starts with ground school, which is weeks of training, and then you go into the actual hands-on experience,” Racek said. 

Looking ahead, the Aviation Club aims to continue expanding its activities and resources. These initiatives will further enhance the learning and networking opportunities available to members. However, the club does not have the resources to conduct flying experiences but it offers pre-flying related activities.

“We don’t feel like putting our members on a certain payment plan for that because we’re trying to have a free club that’s more optional, more enjoyable, and more free run,” Stuckey said. “We tell them all the information for [flying opportunities]—where to go, how to do it, and how to get started—but we don’t formally do that.”