Soaring into New Opportunities

Last school year, East High School senior Sytierni Dickerson had the opportunity to participate in CRI’s Academic Mentors Project. Under the expert guidance of United Airlines Pilot Faye Matthews, Sytierni explored the world of aviation, developing skills that are instrumental in her pursuit of a career as a commercial pilot.

Upon the culmination of her mentorship, Sytierni was granted a remarkable opportunity to further explore her passions. She secured a full scholarship to participate in the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals' ACE Academy, a week-long summer program aimed at introducing diverse students to the fields of aviation and aerospace. For one week in July, Sytierni engaged with like-minded peers, participating in activities that were nothing short of a dream come true for an aviation enthusiast. Her experiences included visits to the United Airlines hangar, DIA's operations center and air traffic control tower, as well as Buckley Air Force Base. While the academy included a variety of amazing adventures, Sytierni's favorites included a flight aboard a Cessna aircraft and hands-on time spent in the United Airlines simulator.

Now embarking on her freshman year at CSU, Sytierni is following her path towards realizing her dream of becoming a United Airlines Airbus pilot. Thanks to her amazing Academic Mentor and the ACE Academy this dream now seems achievable!