Helping Flight Students Find Their Path

Everyone’s path to a career in aviation looks different. Some know exactly where they want to go and how they plan on getting there, while others need guidance. The LIFT Academy® Admissions team can provide you with just that, ensuring that we can help you reach your goals. To talk about her path to a career in aviation, and how the Admissions team can get you started on yours, we sat down with Megan Bouchie, Team Lead for Admissions and Recruitment at LIFT.

Breaking into the Industry

Growing up, Megan never envisioned herself in the aviation industry. She studied Nonprofit Management and Human Resources at Indiana University, where she discovered her passion for student life. After graduation, she happened across a job posting at LIFT Academy and soon began working as an Admissions Advisor. 

“I never expected to work in aviation,” Megan explained. “But I fell in love with hearing the planes overhead, seeing the hangar and watching students grow.” 

Despite enjoying her time at LIFT, Megan decided to pursue a different aviation opportunity after three years.

“I loved my time at LIFT, but I lived in Indiana my whole life, and I wanted to try living somewhere new,” said Megan. “So, I moved out to Denver, Colorado and worked for United Airlines as a Pilot Hiring Recruiter.”

While she liked Denver, there was something about LIFT that Megan couldn’t quite shake. Eventually, she came back to LIFT and began working with students at our Indianapolis campus once again.

Why LIFT?

There were multiple reasons why Megan wanted to return to LIFT, the most notable being the culture. 

“The cool thing about LIFT is that the people here love what they do,” Megan said. “You can see and hear how excited they are to do what they do, and in turn, you get excited about your work.”

Another major factor was her passion for supporting student success.

“Working at United Airlines was great, because I got to see what students can expect once they’re in the industry,” Megan explained. “That helps me better answer student questions and give them real-world context. Those conversations are so important because they really do make a difference in these students’ careers.

What to Expect from a Conversation with the Admissions Team

Setting up a time to talk with the Admissions team can feel intimidating, but really, it’s meant to feel like a casual conversation. During the talk, you’ll discuss everything from flight experience to financing questions to your career goals.

“That conversation is totally non-commital,” Megan said. “All it’s meant to do is answer any questions you may have and make sure that LIFT is right for you and vice versa.”

Having entered aviation by chance, Megan knows firsthand how it feels to start on an unexpected career path, and how rewarding it can be. Whether LIFT Academy is where you planned on completing your flight training, or it’s a welcome deviation, it remains a great place to launch your aviation career. 

“My advice? Just talk with us,” Megan shared. “I came back to LIFT because I believe in the people, the culture and the ways it sets our students up for success. Take that first step and let us show you how we can set you up for success.”

Ready to take the first step? Learn more or apply today at flywithlift.com