Monthly Update - November 2022
“I never lose…I either win or I learn.” —Nelson Mandela
Hello Everyone,

The Mile High Flight Program (MHFP) is off to a great start. On October 15th, the Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight hosted our 2022 – 2023 inaugural event. This marks our 27th year and we’re excited about what the future holds. We were humbled to receive a donation from the Mount Evans Lodge Chapter 7. In addition, we honored Captain Eric Mosley for all of his years of service to the MHFP. He has worked hard to ensure students have access to the multitude of opportunities in the STEM, aerospace, and particularly aviation fields. It’s the commitment of the Tuskegee Airmen and the Mile High Flight Program to highlight those opportunities for our students and help them to build paths to success. Through our own personal experiences and achievements, we hope to provide shining examples for our students to follow. 

The MHF “Crew”
Honoring the Past & Inspiring the Future
P-51 'Tuskegee Airmen' Flies Again

The Commemorative Air Force's P-51C Mustang has returned to the skies. The aircraft-serial number 42-103645 and nicknamed Tuskegee Airmen has been undergoing repairs since last year...

Read more
www.flyingmag.com
Col. Merryl Tengesdal, the only Black woman to fly U2...

Merryl Tengesdal stood at the front of a school auditorium in St. Paul, wearing a t-shirt that said "Dragon Lady." It is her nickname. It also happens to be the nickname of one of the most famous airplanes in the world.

Read more
www.fox9.com
On the Move!
Willy Martinez

MHF Crewmember Willy Martinez is the embodiment of the Tuskegee Airmen’s 6 “Rise Above” principles: Aim High, Believe in Yourself, Use Your Brain, Be Ready to Go, Never Quit, Expect to Win! 
 
A superstar in every regard, Willy rose rapidly from Flight Instructor, to regional airline pilot, to interviewing with some of the biggest and best airlines in the world. Willy has just received conditional job offers from United Airlines and Delta. His hard work and "Never Quit” attitude ensures his success. 
 
Willy shares some of his life story, as a roadmap for others to follow. Read Willy's story here. Congratulations Willy. We’re proud of you. Keep leading the way!  
Apsan Bishwokarma

Mile High Flight grad Apsan Bishwokarma shares his path to success. We’re proud of Apsan and proud to be a part of his journey.  

Apsan writes:

“Dear MHF Crew,

I am excited to tell you that I graduated Air Force BMT (Basic Military Training) this October and fulfilled my dream to become an airman. I love the military lifestyle and discipline this profession demands. 

The Air Force offers a variety of activities. We are always training: physically, mentally and professionally. There are leadership opportunities everywhere and we are responsible for our roles. We always strive to do our best. The best part is the connections you build with wingmen.

I joined the MHF 3 years ago and looking back now, I realize how much MHFP did for me. I loved coming to monthly gatherings and being part of the programs the MHF community offers. Thank you.

Aim High,
Apsan Bishwokarma”
Tommy Fortson

Mile High Flight graduate, now MHFP Crewmember and United Airlines pilot Tommy Fortson just completed a very challenging interview and selection process and was chosen to become a Pilot Instructor at United Airlines. He’ll be teaching the next generation of United pilots to fly the B737 aircraft.

As our first “Phase 2” solo flight student, Tommy not only took each and every opportunity and made the most of it, he has done what only a rare few do. Tommy has used his successes to open the doors for countless others and for that, we’re eternally grateful!
Kamia Bradley

It’s with great joy that we announce that one of our best and brightest, Kamia Bradley, is moving on with the next exciting chapter of her career. Kamia will start flying for one of the largest commuter airlines in 2023.
After learning how to fly with the Mile High Flight Program, Kamia went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Embry Riddle. While there, she created the first Black Student’s Alliance, which continues to support, mentor and encourage students of color.

Last Summer, Kamia organized and taught our first ever, in-person ground school for our prospective “Phase 2” solo flight students and then served as our Chief Flight Instructor.
Kamia is truly a one-of-a-kind gem whose future has no limits. 
She writes: 
“Officially got the call!!! I got the job offer with Skywest!!!! Class date is set for the end of January! Thank you for always being so encouraging throughout this journey because there were a few times where I didn't think I would make it here. I appreciate you all so much!”
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Mile High Flight Program | www.milehighflight.org