Every July, thousands of airplanes flock to the Cheese State for the greatest aviation celebration of all time – EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. During the seven-day event, Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH) becomes one of the busiest airports in the world, welcoming approximately 10,000 eclectic aircraft, ranging from experimental and vintage planes to warbirds and modern jets. This year, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) celebrated its 70th anniversary and welcomed over 650,000 visitors, who enjoyed daily air shows, educational seminars, and a chance to connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts.
There’s no better place to meet and network with the best and brightest in aviation. Envoy’s Air Operations Recruitment Team had a successful week at the Career Center, where the team met with aviation enthusiasts, connected with industry peers, and engaged with prospective Cadet, First Officer, Captain, and Aircraft Mechanic candidates hoping to join Envoy. The team also hosted its annual Oshkosh social meetup to connect with individuals interested in employment at Envoy.
Purdue Aviation students & alumni at Envoy’s Annual Oshkosh Social pose with “RJ” the eagle.
Reflecting on the group’s experience, Pilot Recruitment Manager Austin Decker shared, “There’s no place like Oshkosh. Envoy’s team always has a blast networking with passionate aviation enthusiasts, and this year was no different. We had the chance to meet many talented individuals and look forward to welcoming them to Envoy in the near future.”
Envoy Cadet Instructors Attend Oshkosh
Envoy Cadet Instructor Grace Cowherd poses next to OSU’s Cirrus at EAA AirVenture.
Among the extraordinary Oshkosh attendees was Envoy Cadet Instructor Grace Cowherd from Oklahoma State University (OSU). As a passionate language enthusiast, she never imagined her love for Chinese would lead her to a career in aviation. She started learning Chinese in high school, and little did she know, this passion would open doors to a whole new world of possibilities. During her senior year, Grace had the opportunity to travel to Shanghai. One moment stood out to her – witnessing a female pilot in the flight deck. “Growing up in Arkansas, I was always fascinated by the sight of planes taking off at the local airport. However, I never knew that becoming a pilot was a realistic goal for me. When I saw the female pilot on that trip, I realized it was indeed possible. Shortly after, I delved into researching what it would take to begin flight training.”
From Chinese to Aviation: A Surprising Journey
Grace and Flying Aggies team members pose next to OSU’s Cessna at NIFA 2023. (Photo courtesy of Grace Cowherd).
Desiring a college with both Aviation and Chinese programs, Grace attended OSU and pursued a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Administration and Operations: Professional Pilot and a minor in Chinese. As a student, she served as President of OSU’s Women in Aviation chapter and a member of the OSU Flying Aggies. Grace is currently the Flying Aggies Assistant Coach and a proud member of the Ninety-Nines Arkansas Chapter. She graduated in December 2022 and is working towards completing her required flight time at OSU as an Envoy Cadet Instructor.
Grace’s inspiring story reminds us that our passions can lead us to unexpected places. “Whether it’s a hobby or a language, you never know where your interests might take you. To all aspiring aviators, embrace your passions and let them guide you to extraordinary places,” said Grace.
From Passion to Pilot
Envoy Cadet Instructor Evan Robinson poses next to OSU’s Cirrus at EAA AirVenture.
Another exceptional Oshkosh visitor was Evan Robinson, a dedicated Envoy Cadet Instructor and graduate of OSU. Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Evan’s enthusiasm for aviation began at a young age through his grandfather’s influence. “When I was a kid, my grandfather always told stories of his time as an Airforce crewmember on the B-17,” said Evan. “He was always interested in airplanes and took me to airshows with him. It didn’t take long for me to pick up his infectious love for the industry.”
At just seventeen, Evan began pursuing his aviation journey and completed his private pilot’s license during his senior year of high school. After graduation, Evan enrolled at his lifelong dream college, OSU, and began pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Administration and Operations: Professional Pilot. As a student, he showed an unwavering passion for aviation and OSU through his dedication as the Flying Aggies Treasurer and Flight Team Co-Captain.
Evan is all smiles after successfully completing his Cadet Instructor interview at Envoy Headquarters in Irving, TX. (Photo courtesy of Evan Robinson).
Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviators
Now as a Cadet Instructor at OSU, he is inspiring and shaping the next generation of aviators. Reflecting on his experience as a Flight Instructor, Evan shared, “I love teaching and all the rewarding aspects of helping student pilots reach their goals. There’s nothing better than watching your student solo for the first time or pass a check ride.”
Evan says to those considering an airline pilot career, “Go for it! I highly recommend applying to the Envoy Cadet Program to help get you there. It’s the fastest path to First Officer training, and I’ve really enjoyed all the benefits of a full-time employee.”
Click here to view the gallery of photos from EAA AirVenture 2023.