Spicy Harmon, a James C. Ray Flight Training Scholarship recipient, recently received her Private Pilot’s License at the age of 17. After receiving the scholarship in 2022, Spicy completed flight lessons at Flight Training 101 at Winter Haven Regional Airport. Training at a local airport provided an avenue for Spicy to join their Pilot’s Association. She also discussed the networking opportunities that the scholarship opened; for example, she joined the SU Aviator’s Club and met other pilots through volunteering at the annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo.
Spicy’s exposure to aviation came after her homeschooled education. She admits, “I didn’t even know what the term ‘Fixed Wing’ meant.” She later shares that the biggest hurdle in her training was starting out not knowing anything about aviation. She continued by expressing her love for the aviation atmosphere, and shares, “No matter your age, being immersed in the aviation community is an awesome experience.”
Spicy’s goals for a future aviation career include becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). She explained how she has a passion for teaching and wants to demonstrate that through flying. Spicy’s good experience with flight instructors inspire her to also teach aviation. Connecting her flight training to how much the scholarship has impacted her, she shares that being so young and being able to connect with other scholarship members affords her opportunities for growth in the aviation community. She is grateful to have finished her Private Pilot’s License before beginning college, and having that financial help allowed her the possibility of pursuing aviation as a career.
When asked what advice Spicy would give to scholarship students pursuing flight training, she offers, “Work hard and stay dedicated. There are going to be times where it gets tough, but push through. The feeling of learning you passed your checkride is like no other.” Spicy is a great example of someone who knew nothing about aviation, but upon hearing about the James C. Ray Scholarship, her interest in aviation peaked and grew. Her love of the aviation community and passion for becoming a flight instructor is contagious. We wish Spicy the best of luck in her future endeavors!
