From a Career on the Ground to a Career in the Skies

Casey Vincent is an ambitious, first-generation pilot who made the leap from a role in Talent Acquisition at Republic Airways to pursue her dream of becoming a pilot. While she worked at Republic Airways, Casey was immersed in the world of aviation and discovered the pathway to Republic through the LIFT Academy program. Now having graduated from LIFT, she is excited to be one step closer to her round trip back to Republic Airways, but this time as a commercial pilot.

Once you catch the aviation bug, it’s only up from there. Through her job within Republic’s Talent Acquisition department, Casey worked with pilots regularly and traveled to Part 61 and Part 141 schools across the country. When she wasn’t working, she was using her Republic flight privileges to travel internationally “as much as humanly possible.” “I quickly realized I could never leave aviation,” she shared, “and LIFT Academy was the best opportunity for me to pursue a pilot career.”

And so, it began. Casey started her training at LIFT in June 2022. She quickly earned all her ratings and achieved her last license, CFII (Certificated Flight Instructor – Instrument), in October 2024. Today, she is imparting her knowledge to the next generation of pilots. As a student, she appreciated the small, close-knit community at LIFT. “You grow to know a lot of your peers and instructors closely. Studying with classmates often on school grounds and helping each other out creates a bond that lasts beyond training.”

Some of Casey’s favorite memories were made during Winter Operations, where many Indianapolis students temporarily relocated to LIFT campuses located in warmer climates to continue flying during the harsh winter months. This opportunity allowed her to progress through training at a quicker rate than is possible in Indianapolis. “I made some of my closest friends during this time. Spending Christmas together at a Chinese buffet followed by card games brings people together, especially when you’re feeling homesick.”

Casey shares a good reminder that everyone has their own flight path to the airlines. “Some people progress quicker, and others progress slower. Sometimes a Part 141 program makes the most sense, and sometimes a Part 61 program fits someone’s needs better. There is no “one-size-fits-all” for flight training success. Be patient with yourself in figuring out your own journey, and if you really want it, no matter how long it takes, perseverance will get you there.”

Ready to start your journey? Explore the pathway to Republic Airways through the LIFT Academy program. Apply today and let your career take flight.