Williston High students obtain private pilot licenses thanks to CTE aviation course

WILLISTON, N.D. (KUMV) - Williston High School senior Kallon Delorme is flying over Bismarck through an FAA-approved flight simulator. He’s not even a high school graduate yet, but he got his private pilot’s license in January. He earned it with hours in this machine and efforts outside of the classroom.

“It was amazing. I can’t wait to go fly with my parents. I have yet to do that,” said Delorme.

Evan Fisher accomplished the same goal. The process includes several hours of flight time, passing exams, and clearing a checkride where you show an examiner you understand the flight process.

“I don’t think I would have gotten my license, especially as soon as I did, being a high schooler, without this program. It’s been a huge help for me,” said Fisher.

Thomas Sando has been inspiring future pilots for years through his aviation classes. While he clears the runway for students to learn, he credits them for taking the time to realize their dreams.

“It’s a pretty incredible feeling. It’s always nerve-wracking, especially when you sign a kid to go off solo. You’re letting this 16 or 17-year-old kid go fly an airplane by themselves, and you gave them permission to do so,” said Sando.

Private flying is just the beginning for these two pilots as they aim for careers in the sky.

“This class has probably been the main reason that I started my flying career, because without it, I probably wouldn’t have the chance to start flying,” said Delorme.

Thanks to the aviation course, Sando is showing students that the sky’s the limit. For the past three years, he’s been providing scholarships through a nonprofit to help students pay for part of their flight instruction.

For more information, check out the Western Star Aviation Foundation Facebook Page.