http://www.pilotsofpromise.org/

Pilots of Promise, 19046 Bruce B Downs, Tampa, FL (2026)

08/17/2026

Honored to receive the Outstanding ACE Academy Director Award from The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.

I am truly humbled and grateful to the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, the Board, leadership, and everyone who made this recognition possible.

This award is not just about me—it represents the students, families, mentors, and volunteers who believe in expanding access to aviation.

From launching ACE Academies in the Twin Cities, Denver, and Tampa to founding Pilots of Promise, my mission has always been to open doors and show young people that they belong in aerospace.

To my family—Dee, Dallas, and Drew—thank you for your unwavering support.

And to every student who has ever looked at an aircraft and wondered if they could be part of this industry: the answer is yes.

I am committed to continuing this work and helping the next generation reach higher than ever before.

Thank you, OBAP, for this incredible honor.

06/25/2026

🎓✈️ Celebrating Excellence, Purpose, and the Future of Aviation! ✈️🎓

The Tampa ACE Academy would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Mrs. Chevaughn McGregor for inviting our directors to share in such a special milestone—Paige's high school graduation celebration.

Watching our students grow beyond the academy is one of the greatest rewards of what we do, and Paige is a shining example of what passion, determination, and hard work can accomplish.

From the moment Paige joined the Tampa ACE Academy, it was clear that aviation wasn't just an interest—it was her calling. She arrived eager to learn, asked thoughtful questions, embraced every opportunity, and demonstrated the drive and commitment that future aviation professionals possess.

Today, we are incredibly proud to celebrate her graduation with high honors, a remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication both inside and outside the classroom.

This fall, Paige will begin an exciting new chapter as a student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where she will major in Aviation – Professional Flight as she pursues her dream of becoming a professional pilot.
Her journey is only beginning. Paige also plans to apply for Pilots of Promise, where we look forward to continuing to mentor and support her throughout her collegiate and professional aviation journey. We are also excited to help connect her with scholarship opportunities that will further invest in her future.

Paige, your Tampa ACE Academy family is incredibly proud of you. Keep reaching higher, continue working hard, remain humble, and never lose sight of the dream that first inspired you to take flight. The aviation community needs passionate leaders like you, and we have no doubt that your future is incredibly bright.

Congratulations once again, Paige! We can't wait to watch you soar.

06/20/2026

🎓✈️ What a truly memorable and inspiring Graduation Ceremony for the 2026 Tampa ACE Academy!

As we celebrated the accomplishments of this incredible group of future aviation and aerospace professionals, every director and volunteer took time to share their personal journey to the flight deck, the hangar, the boardroom, and beyond. Through stories of perseverance, hard work, setbacks, and success, our goal was simple: to show our participants that their dreams are possible if they remain focused, committed, and never give up.

Director Floyd Balentine had the privilege of sharing his journey—from humble beginnings to becoming a United Airlines Captain—and introducing our participants to Pilots of Pilots of Promise, a mentorship organization dedicated to helping young people continue their aviation and aerospace journey long after ACE Academy ends. This graduation is not the finish line; it is just the beginning.

A special thank you to Mission Bbq, Tampa, Fl for catering a wonderful meal for our participants, families, volunteers, and guests. We also want to thank one of our amazing participant mothers for creating the beautiful cakes that made our celebration even more special.

We want to thank Mrs. Dee Balentine from Black Butterfly Business Collective for decorating the entire space, making the programs and certificates.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening was hearing directly from each participant as they reflected on their experiences throughout the week. Their stories, growth, excitement, and newfound confidence reminded us exactly why we do this work. Watching them discover new possibilities and career pathways was priceless.

We would also like to officially welcome and thank our new photographer and videographer, Jeremiah Ricketts, for capturing the memories, emotions, and excitement of this incredible week. The photos have been outstanding, and we cannot wait to share the official Academy highlight video with everyone soon!

Finally, I want to personally thank my co-directors and volunteers. Your dedication, professionalism, passion, and countless hours of service made this academy possible. Tampa ACE Academy and Pilots of Promise continue to impact lives because of your commitment to inspiring the next generation of leaders, aviators, engineers, air traffic controllers, mechanics, and aerospace professionals.

To our graduates: Continue dreaming big. Continue believing in yourselves. Continue reaching for the skies. The aviation community is waiting for you.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! We are incredibly proud of you! 🎓✈️💙

06/20/2026

✈️ WHAT AN EPIC FLIGHT DAY! ✈️

Today was nothing short of amazing as we concluded Flight Day for the Tampa ACE Academy! Our participants took to the skies at Tampa Executive Airport, where we provided an incredible 21 discovery flights with Certified Flight Instructors. Each participant had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of aviation — how to Aviate, Navigate, and Communicate while experiencing the thrill of flight firsthand.

A very special THANK YOU goes out to Mr. Marvin and the entire team at Superior Aviation Gateway for once again stepping up in a huge way by donating two aircraft to support Pilots of Promise and the Tampa ACE Academy. Your unwavering commitment to inspiring and developing the next generation of aerospace and aviation professionals does not go unnoticed. We truly cannot thank you enough for always coming to the rescue and supporting our mission.

Today was also filled with unforgettable firsts. For the very first time, we had a grandmother marshal her grandson from the chock area to the flight line and onto the taxiway for departure — a memory that both of them will cherish forever. Moments like these remind us that aviation is truly a family affair.

Another historic first for the Tampa ACE Academy and Pilots of Promise was seeing one of our very own come full circle. Our volunteer, Roberto, who participated in the inaugural Tampa ACE Academy in 2023, returned today as a newly Certified Flight Instructor! Even more inspiring, Roberto Manuel Zacarias served as the flight instructor for 10 participants, teaching them the fundamentals of flight, including takeoffs and landings. To witness a former participant return to inspire and train the next generation is exactly what Pilots of Promise is all about. Roberto, we are incredibly proud of you and excited to watch your aviation journey continue to soar!

At Pilots of Promise and the Tampa ACE Academy, we believe in creating experiences that inspire entire families. That's why we always offer one family member the opportunity to fly alongside their participant and experience the same excitement, wonder, and inspiration.

The future of aviation is bright, and after today, we know that the next generation is ready to soar!

06/19/2026

✈️🚁 DAY 4 OF TAMPA ACE ACADEMY WAS ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE! 🚁✈️

Today began at the Dream Center of Tampa where our participants took flight with the drones they built yesterday. They learned the fundamentals of aviation communication, including how pilots communicate with Ground Control for taxi instructions, Tower for takeoff clearance, and Air Traffic Control as they navigate through the airspace. Watching these future aviators apply what they learned and successfully fly their drones was amazing!

Next, we headed to Tampa International Airport for an unforgettable lunch experience at P.F. Chang's, generously sponsored by Mr. George Tinsley II, Vice President of Tinsley Family Concessions, Inc. Mr. Tinsley and his team treated over 35 participants and volunteers to lunch and demonstrated what true community leadership looks like. We are incredibly grateful for his generosity and commitment to investing in the next generation.

We were also honored to hear from Ms. Synji Lee, Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel for Tampa International Airport and the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority. Her story of perseverance, leadership, and excellence was powerful. She inspired our participants to dream big, overcome obstacles, and never give up on their goals. Her message will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on many of these young lives.

A very special thank you goes out to Ms. Nikki Inda at Ladder Up. Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to creating opportunities for our youth continue to make a tremendous difference. We truly cannot thank you enough for everything you do for Tampa ACE Academy and Pilots of Promise.

The learning didn't stop there!

Our afternoon included an outstanding visit to Sheltair, where participants gained insight into the corporate aviation industry and explored the many career opportunities available beyond the airlines. They learned that aviation is much bigger than just being a pilot—it's an entire ecosystem filled with exciting careers.

We wrapped up the day with an amazing tour of the Tampa Police Department Aviation Division. Participants got an up-close look at the helicopters used for aerial law enforcement operations throughout the Tampa Bay area and learned how aviation supports public safety every day.

Today was filled with inspiration, education, mentorship, and opportunities. The participants arrived eager to learn and left with a greater understanding of aviation, new career possibilities, and the confidence to continue pursuing their dreams.

At Tampa ACE Academy, we're not just exposing students to careers—we're changing lives, building futures, and creating pathways to success.

One more day until graduation! 🎓✈️

06/16/2026

🚀✈️ Tampa ACE Academy Day 2 wrapped up with an incredible visit to the United Airlines Technical Operations Maintenance Hangar!

Our participants had the unique opportunity to step inside the world of aircraft maintenance and engineering. One of the highlights of the day was seeing the engine of a Boeing 737 MAX opened up while United Airlines professionals explained every detail, component, and system that keeps these amazing aircraft flying safely around the world.

The knowledge shared today was truly invaluable. Our students were exposed to more than 50 additional careers within the aviation and aerospace industry, ranging from aircraft maintenance technicians and engineers to logistics, operations, safety, and leadership roles.

What makes the Tampa ACE Academy so special is that every day our participants discover new possibilities for their future. Today wasn't just about airplanes—it was about opening minds, inspiring dreams, and helping young people see themselves in careers they may have never imagined before.

As we move one step closer to graduation on Friday, I can already see future pilots, engineers, mechanics, air traffic controllers, and aviation leaders emerging from this talented group. I am also excited to say that we definitely have several future Pilots of Promise mentees who will continue their aviation journey through mentorship, guidance, and opportunity.

A huge thank you to United Airlines for once again rolling out the red carpet and investing in the next generation of aviation professionals. Your commitment to education, mentorship, and workforce development is making a lasting impact.

The future of aviation is bright! ✈️🌎

06/16/2026

🚁⚓ Day 2 of the Tampa ACE Academy was nothing short of AMAZING!

Today, our participants had the incredible opportunity to visit the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, where they were welcomed by dedicated professionals who proudly serve our nation every day.

Our students toured the impressive HC-27J Spartan and MH-60T Jayhawk aircraft, gaining firsthand insight into the missions, technology, and teamwork required to support search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, and homeland security.

The energy and curiosity from our participants were incredible! They asked thoughtful questions about aviation careers, life in the Coast Guard, search and rescue missions, water safety, rip currents, and the paths these professionals took to achieve their goals.

One of the highlights of the day was visiting the SWIM Response Team, where students learned about water rescue operations and what to do in emergency situations. The discussions were engaging, inspiring, and eye-opening.

Most importantly, our participants left knowing that the U.S. Coast Guard offers exciting opportunities to serve their country while pursuing careers in aviation, engineering, maritime operations, emergency response, and leadership.

A huge THANK YOU to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard for investing in the next generation and showing our students what is possible when preparation meets opportunity.

06/15/2026

🔥 Day 1 of Tampa ACE Academy was absolutely incredible! ✈️

Today, our students got an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Southwest Airlines , and they truly rolled out the red carpet for us. From operations and maintenance to customer service, leadership, safety, logistics, and more, our participants were exposed to nearly 60 different career opportunities within the aviation industry — and we're only on Day 1 of a 5-day journey!

One of the highlights of the day was our Tampa International Airport scavenger hunt, which the students absolutely loved. It challenged them to explore, learn, engage, and discover just how many moving parts it takes to keep an airport running smoothly.

As I reflect on today, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you to my incredible co-directors and volunteers who continue to pour their time, talent, and passion into inspiring the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals. None of this would be possible without your dedication and commitment.

I'm also excited to share that several participants are currently being vetted for Pilots of Promise, and based on what we've seen so far, I truly believe we may welcome at least five new mentees into our program after they graduate from Tampa ACE Academy at the Dream Center of Tampa this Friday.

The future of aviation is bright, and we're just getting started! 🚀

06/07/2026

✈️🌟 BIG NEWS! 🌟✈️

We are excited to announce that the official Pilots of Promise website is coming soon!

Our mission is simple: Inspire, mentor, and empower the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals by providing access, exposure, and opportunities that help dreams take flight.

🚀 Visit our new landing page today:
https://pilotsofpromise.org/

Whether you're a student, parent, mentor, educator, aviation professional, sponsor, or supporter, we invite you to join us on this incredible journey as we build pathways to success for future aviators.

The future of aviation starts with a promise... and we're just getting started.

Stay tuned for:
✅ Scholarship Opportunities
✅ Mentorship Programs
✅ Aviation Career Resources
✅ Student Success Stories
✅ Community Partnerships
✅ Upcoming Events

Together, we're creating opportunities, changing lives, and shaping the future of aviation.

05/30/2026

Congratulations to Roberto Manuel Zacarias on earning his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Rating in just two months! ✈️

This is a tremendous accomplishment and a major milestone on the journey toward becoming an airline pilot. We are excited to see you begin teaching and inspiring the next generation of aviators while continuing to build valuable flight experience.

The Pilots of Promise family is proud of your dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence. Wishing you continued success, safe flying, and many future achievements.

Keep climbing. The sky is not the limit—it's just the beginning!

Pilots of Promise

08/17/2026

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