For as long as Captain Reilly O’Grodnick can remember, flying has been more than just an interest—it’s been the goal. From peeking into the flight deck as a kid to following in the footsteps of family members who flew professionally, that early curiosity turned into a clear path forward.
His commitment to professionalism, leadership, and safety earned him the 2025 Envoy President’s Award. In this interview, Captain O’Grodnick shares insights into his journey, what motivates him, and the mindset that continues to push him forward.
What inspired you to pursue a career in aviation? Can you tell us about your career path and what led you to your current position?
I’ve always had a passion for flying since my early childhood. Every time I stepped on an airliner, I would look inside the flight deck with a dream to become a professional pilot one day. I thought it was the coolest thing ever to see so many buttons, switches, and levers! I had family relatives who were former military and corporate pilots that inspired me to fly. They helped me find a flight school and are still considered my mentors to this day. I completed flight training at ATP in Carlsbad, California, instructed at a local flight school in my hometown in Northwest Arkansas, I was also able to build early jet experience flying as Second In Command for a private operator on a CL-601 and LJ45. From there, I obtained my first airline job at Envoy Air as a First Officer. Over the years, I gained experience out on the line flying and have upgraded as a Captain. And now I’m ready to accomplish the next big milestone of mine to be a part of the legacy airline family!
What do you believe sets your approach to work apart from others?
What I believe sets me apart from others in a work environment is my work ethic, discipline, driven, and have a strong capability to lead by example in and out of the flight deck.
Are there any memorable moments or significant milestones in your career that stand out to you?
Some of the most memorable moments that I have cherished and milestones I’ve achieved throughout my aviation career thus far, was my very first solo flight, getting on with my first airline job, upgrading to Captain at Envoy, and the opportunity to fly with my wife for the first time. This was an absolute dream come true to work alongside my spouse in the flight deck. My next big milestone is becoming a pilot for a legacy airline.
How do you stay motivated and maintain high standards in your work?
I remind myself that this is by far the best job ever and my dream to become a professional airline pilot has come true. I wouldn’t trade this job for anything. I’ve worked extremely hard to get to where I am today.
What is your favorite part about working at Envoy?
My favorite part about working at Envoy Air is flying the state-of-the-art Embraer E-Jet aircraft, working with all the amazing colleagues, and most importantly being a part of every customer’s travel experience. The most rewarding aspect of my career is safely getting customers from one destination to the next. Safety is the backbone of any successful operation and it’s what I take pride in the most.
One of the most valuable lessons that I’ve learned throughout my career is to stick to doing the right thing, be truthful, take accountability and pride in what you do.
Are there any hobbies or interests outside of work that you’re passionate about?
When I’m not flying, I enjoy being outdoors, working out, spending time with my wife, family and friends, and bow hunting for whitetail deer.