The Doors LIFT Academy Opens

Not everyone knows what they want their career to look like, even if they think they do. The truth is, many people who pursue a career in aviation got their start by pursuing other avenues. That’s where LIFT Academy^® comes in. Not only does LIFT help future aviators start their aviation careers, but it also provides a number of pathways for them to take their careers in any direction they choose. To talk about how LIFT Academy has set him up for career success, we talked with Ricardo Figueroa Munoz, Certificated Flight Instructor at LIFT.

The Journey to LIFT

Ricardo grew up in New Jersey, where he pursued a pre-law degree and played soccer at the collegiate level. While it seemed like the right path initially, Ricardo quickly realized it wasn’t a good fit for him.

That led to Ricardo working at Newark Airport as a Ramp Agent with United Airlines. One day, while pushing back a United Express-branded Embraer aircraft, he noticed a small line of text that read, “Operated by Republic Airways.” That tiny detail sparked something in him. Soon after, he was on the Republic Airways website, which ultimately led him to the LIFT Academy site.

“That’s when it all clicked for me,” Ricardo explained. “I knew in that moment that I would much rather be in the air than on the ground.”

Getting Started at LIFT

When Ricardo first joined LIFT, he didn’t yet understand how rigorous the accelerated nature of the training program could be. That changed quickly after receiving the results of his written exam for his private pilot license.

“That first test was very humbling,” said Ricardo. “You have to be willing to put the work in. So I shifted my mindset, and I got motivated. Looking back now, I’m grateful for that moment.”

While at LIFT, Ricardo felt the impact that Certificated Flight Instructors (CFIs) can have. Seeing the way they supported him made him want to follow in their footsteps. After graduation, he made that dream a reality by becoming a CFI at LIFT.

“They made me a stronger pilot,” said Ricardo. “I’ve taken all of the things they taught me, and now I use them to support my students.”

Becoming a CFI is just one time-building pathway that LIFT offers to its graduates. Graduates can also fly with Bridge Air, Cape Air or Brickyard Connection to earn the 1,500 hours they need to become Commercial Airline Pilots. Working as a CFI is an incredible opportunity because it provides a way to reliably build flight hours, make a difference in students’ lives and earn an income.

Looking Ahead

While many LIFT graduates go on to fly with Republic Airways, thanks to our defined career pathway to Republic, students can take their careers in any direction they choose.

“My goal is to become a Check Airman,” said Ricardo. “I want to support students through some of the most pivotal parts of their aviation journey, and ensure that safety remains their top priority as they move to the next stage of their careers.”

When asked what advice he had for LIFT students, Ricardo had this to say: “Remember that you are here for a reason. Put the work in and just know that it will pay off.”

Are you ready to put the work in? Learn more or apply now at flywithlift.com.