Chase Ziegler ‘24 recently earned his Private Pilot’s License. During his time at CC, he was part of the inaugural Flying Shamrocks Club, which helped him explore his interest in aviation. 

In the Q&A below, Chase shares what sparked his interest in becoming a commercial airline pilot, how Catholic Central supported that goal, and what steps he's taking next in his training.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot, and how did your time at Catholic Central influence that decision?

Chase: For as long as I can remember, I have had a passion for aviation. That dream of becoming a pilot has never faded. As a child, I loved driving by the airport and watching planes take off and land—it was always exciting. During my time at Catholic Central, I was fortunate to be part of the Flying Shamrocks Club in its inaugural year. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared the same passion confirmed that pursuing a career as a commercial airline pilot was the right path for me.

Q: While you were a student at CC, did you participate in the Aviation Program? If not, have you been back on campus to see the Redbird simulator? What do you think of it?

Chase: I participated in the Flying Shamrocks Club during its first year; however, I did not have the opportunity to use any of the simulators as a student, as the Hall of Science was still under construction throughout my Senior year. I have since returned to campus and had the chance to try out one of the Redbird TD2 simulators. I have not yet flown the full-motion Redbird FMX simulator, but I am looking forward to trying it out when I get the chance. The simulators at Catholic Central are a tremendous step forward, especially with the new curriculum designed to help students work toward earning their Private Pilot License.

Q: For those who are interested in pursuing a similar career path, can you walk us through the process of earning your Private Pilot License?

Chase: The process of earning a Private Pilot License can vary depending on the type of training program chosen. There are two main options: Part 61 and Part 141. Part 141, the path I elected, follows a more structured, school-like curriculum. In either case, all students must pass a written exam and a checkride, which includes both an oral knowledge test and a practical flight test. The flight portion evaluates the student’s ability to perform various maneuvers, takeoffs, and landings. Meeting all the requirements can be challenging, but it is incredibly rewarding.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your training, and how did CC help you overcome them?

Chase: Flight lessons are not easy for a first-time flyer, and repeated lessons were a challenge I faced more than once. Flight training allows very little room for error due to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) strict standards, so it took a lot of perseverance, especially during times when I felt like I needed a break. Catholic Central helped me develop the discipline to push through moments like those. CC taught me to fail forward, to not be afraid of challenging myself, and—if I did not succeed at first—to try again. In addition to the hands-on challenges, the academic side of flight training presented its own demands. The extensive studying required to earn my Private Pilot License was another significant hurdle, but the strong study habits I developed during my four years at CC prepared me well and continue to serve me in my aviation training.

Q: What’s next for you on the path to becoming a commercial airline pilot, and what advice would you give to other students considering aviation? Can any of the required flight hours be taken at Catholic Central?

Chase: Next on my journey is earning my Instrument Rating, followed by my Commercial Pilot License, Multi-Engine Rating, and finally my Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Rating, which will allow me to teach others who share a passion like mine. After earning my CFI rating, my goal is to be hired by Skyborne Airline Academy and begin instructing new students. Once I reach 500 flight hours, I will apply to the Delta Propel Pathway Program, which offers a defined path to a career with Delta Air Lines. After passing 1,500 flight hours, I will qualify for my Restricted Airline Transport Pilot License (R-ATP) at 21 years old, after which I will transition to working for the airlines.

To anyone considering becoming a pilot: yes, it is a lot of work. You must enjoy the journey, both the highs and the lows. Everything I have completed so far has been incredibly rewarding. Do not be afraid to take that first step, even if it feels intimidating or you are unsure when to begin. Most importantly, you have to remember what you are working toward—your dream. Catholic Central can now play a large role in giving students a massive head start in their aviation journey.