When Pilot Runs in the Family

Joshua Koch is a Republic Airways First Officer and LIFT Academy graduate who is embarking on a new chapter in his aviation career. Josh is from Indianapolis, IN and has always had a love for travel and adventure. Today, we’re fortunate to hear firsthand about his journey, from discovering his passion for aviation to training at LIFT Academy and finally achieving his goal of becoming a pilot. Let’s dive in and learn more about Josh’s inspiring story and the pivotal role his father, a Captain for Republic Airways, played in shaping his aviation career.

Question: Hi, Josh! It is a pleasure to be talking with you today. Huge congratulations to you as you enter the next leg of your career journey as a Republic Airways First Officer. Exciting is probably an understatement, and I know you’ll be flying alongside someone close to you. Before we take off, will you share a little bit about yourself? 

Josh: Of course! My name is Josh Koch, and I grew up in Indianapolis, IN. In my free time, I like to travel, kayak, and bike. Whenever I travel, I like to try different hamburger restaurants and ice cream shops wherever I go! 

Question: That’s fantastic! I bet your new career has provided you with lots of travel opportunities. Was there a specific instance or experience that captivated your interest and led you to pursue a career in aviation? 

Josh: My dad, who is a Captain for Republic Airways, made me interested in aviation. Growing up, I was always fascinated by aviation and airplanes, however, I did not have much desire to fly when I was younger. Being the son of a Captain for Republic Airways, I realized the great work-life balance one can have as a pilot. While a pilot may spend several nights a week in a hotel, there is also no other job that will give you as much time off as a pilot. Plus, the views from above are amazing too! 

Question: The view from your office must be unbeatable! It must be such a treat to share your father’s passion. I’m curious, what made you decide to pursue your flight training at LIFT? Were you drawn to the pathway to Republic because of your dad? 

Josh: No doubt about it! There are a few different factors that led me to select LIFT. Without a doubt, one of the biggest draws was the direct pathway it provides to Republic. I also loved that it is that it is modeled like Republic to try and make the transition as seamless as possible. The fact that LIFT’s structure and procedures, including the FOM and SOPs for each aircraft, are modeled after Republic’s made the transition incredibly smooth for me. Another reason I chose LIFT was the assurance of a First Officer position with Republic Airways after successfully completing the program and accumulating the necessary flight hours was a significant incentive. Knowing that I would have a secure and fulfilling job opportunity at a reputable airline like Republic was a major factor in my decision to choose LIFT. 

Question: You mentioned that Republic is a reputable airline. I’ve heard a lot that the culture at LIFT and Republic is what sets them apart from the rest. Can you talk a little bit about what the culture was like at LIFT? 

Josh: Certainly – the culture is unique at LIFT because we all have the same end goal in mind: to be a pilot for Republic Airways when we complete the program, students and instructor alike. At LIFT, everyone shares the same goal of pursuing a career in aviation as pilots, which fosters a shared purpose among us. 

Question: I’ve been impressed by the mutual support and encouragement between LIFT students and instructors as they navigate their individual journeys. During your time at LIFT, was there a favorite moment or aspect of the program that left a lasting impression on you? 

Josh: One of my favorite parts of the program was flying in and out of Indianapolis International Airport. With both airports being Class Charlie Airspaces, it allowed me to become much more comfortable communicating over the radios with air traffic control.  Because I was communicating with them every day, I was not afraid to go to another airport and worry about communicating over the radio with air traffic control.     

Question: Getting that perspective and experience of communicating with air traffic control was very informative, I’m sure! Looking back at your time at LIFT, do you have a favorite memory? 

Josh: Yes! I actually have two favorite memories that come to mind from my time at LIFT.  The first one was shortly after earning my Instrument Rating, I was flying into Wilmington International Airport, and I was cleared for the approach far out and got to fly all the stepdown fixes in the clouds!  This was a very neat feeling doing this for the first time in actual instrument conditions after completing my Instrument Rating. 

My other favorite memory at LIFT was taking my dad up for my final flight at LIFT before transitioning to Republic Airways. Since he is a Captain for Republic, he has taught me many things about flying and decision making. He has been one of my biggest supporters since deciding I wanted to follow in his footsteps and pursue a career as a commercial pilot about four years ago. 

Question: What a special memory for both you and your father – one that will stay with you forever! What would you say you are most proud of in your career so far? And what exciting prospects lie on the horizon? 

Josh: What I am most proud of so far is starting training at Republic Airways as a First Officer. I remember just starting at LIFT as an instrument student thinking that is such a long way away and now it is really happening. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and learning concepts of aviation that are completely new to me. I am also looking forward to travelling and seeing new places! 

Question: Your path is filled with endless potential! Would you say your dad has been your biggest inspiration throughout your career journey or is there another figure in your life, aviation or otherwise, who inspires you? 

Josh: My dad has been a huge inspiration in life, not just in aviation but in other aspects of life as well. My dad has had a huge impact on me as a person and as a pilot. My dad has spent countless hours with me studying and preparing me for lessons, check rides, etc. He has taught me so many valuable skills that I take with me to the airplane each day. Anytime I do not understand something, I always either go home or track him down on an overnight to call and ask him whatever questions or advice I may need at the time. He is always willing to help me or anyone out because he wants to see everyone succeed in whatever they may do. 

Question: The connection you share with your dad is truly remarkable, and it’s evident that he has had a profound influence on you. I can tell that you, in turn, will undoubtedly inspire others to pursue their dreams, just as your dad inspired you. With that in mind, what guidance would you offer to individuals contemplating a career in aviation? 

Josh: I would offer three pieces of advice: time, study, and keep pushing forward. Regarding time, make sure you have ample time set aside for your studies. The amount of studying you do on the ground compared to flying is much greater than one would imagine. Come up with study habits that work for yourself and stick to them. Find your ideal study place. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to study before lessons, checking events, check rides, etc. Studying will prepare you for success in practically every scenario in aviation. The last piece of advice I have is to keep pushing forward. During your training, you will run into learning plateaus, fly a lesson and not fly well, and get frustrated with yourself. Whenever this happens, just keep pushing forward. Take your mind off flying for a few hours, then come back to it and keep pushing forward. You will eventually move on and pass it if you keep pushing.   

Thank you, Josh, for sharing your journey with us. Your path from LIFT Academy to First Officer at Republic Airways is both inspiring and filled with testaments of perseverance, passion and support of your loved ones. We wish you continued success in your new role! For anyone inspired by Josh’s story and ready to take the first step toward their own aviation career, now is the perfect time to apply to LIFT and start your journey toward the skies.