How the right environment supports safety, confidence, and long-term aviation careers Choosing a flight school is one of the most important decisions a future pilot, and their family, will make. With aviation career pathways expanding and demand for commercial pilots forecast to remain strong, parents today are focused not only on safety and training quality, but also on long-term outcomes. …
As students at California Aeronautical University (CAU) consider their career options, one graduate returned to campus to share her perspective on an aviation path pilots might overlook: corporate flying. CAU graduate Gelsey Lozano, now a Captain at Wonderful Aviation, knew she wanted the stability and convenience of coming home every night — and that the airline track never quite fit …
California Aeronautical University (CAU) was honored to welcome Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) President Darren Pleasance to campus for an exclusive Pilot Town Hall with CAU students, staff, and members of the local aviation community. The event, held as part of Darren’s nationwide AOPA President’s Tour, gave attendees a unique opportunity to hear directly …
Fairfield, NJ – California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce the launch of its first Reach Flight Center in partnership with Air Fleet Training Systems, expanding access to university-level aviation education for aspiring pilots in the Northeast. Through the Reach Flight Center initiative, CAU partners with established flight schools across the country to deliver a unique …
As aviation enthusiasts from around the world gather in Oshkosh for EAA AirVenture, one of the most iconic aircraft in attendance isn’t just turning heads in the sky — it’s also featured on the event poster. The Goodyear Blimp, a beloved airshow staple and rare sight in the skies, will be making a special appearance …
California Aeronautical University (CAU) honored its 2025 graduating class during a commencement ceremony held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the University’s campus in Bakersfield, California. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of graduates entering the aviation industry, many of whom have already secured opportunities with prominent organizations such as Endeavor Air, Robinson Helicopters, SkyWest Airlines, …
In our recent guide, we outlined steps to becoming a pilot in general aviation and if you’re still deciding whether you want to become a pilot or not, we urge you to read our first guide before jumping into this one. If you have already read that guide and / or you have definitely decided …
In our recent guide, we outlined steps to becoming a pilot in general aviation and if you’re still deciding whether you want to become a pilot or not, we urge you to read our first guide before jumping into this one. If you have already read that guide and / or you have definitely decided …
Demonstrating their skill, professionalism, and sportsmanship on a national stage, the California Aeronautical University (CAU) Flight Team recently competed at the 2025 National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON flight competition, earning national honors among the country’s top collegiate aviation programs. Competing May 12-17, 2025 in Oshkosh Wisconsin, the CAU Flight Team proudly placed 14th overall, …
From Dream to Delta: Miguel Diaz’s Journey from CAU to the Majors For Miguel Diaz, the dream of becoming a pilot wasn’t just his—it was his father’s too. Growing up in Ontario, California, Diaz always liked airplanes. His father had wanted to be a pilot but never had the opportunity. That dream, passed down, became …
One of the most asked questions from people who want to become pilots is “do I need a degree to be a pilot?” The Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics states that “airline pilots typically need a bachelor’s degree in any field [while] commercial pilots typically complete flight training, and some employers require or prefer that …
Airline Pilot Hiring Process Whether you’re just beginning flight training or completing your last hours toward your Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, it’s time to start preparing for airline interviews! Yes, that’s right. Even if you’re a student pilot in the beginning stages of flight training, the airline pilot interview should be on your mind. The …
Growing up in Bakersfield, California, I always had a strong support system. My family taught me to work hard and never back down from the challenges of life, and those lessons have stayed with me throughout my journey. Whether I was playing sports, tackling AP courses, or chasing new experiences, my family, especially my grandfather, …
California Aeronautical University (CAU) proudly announces that Omar Aguilera, instructor in the University’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program, has been named “Educator of the Year” by the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC). This prestigious award recognizes Aguilera’s outstanding contributions to aviation maintenance education and his commitment to shaping the next generation of aircraft mechanics. A 25-year …
For many aspiring pilots, the dream of flying for an airline can feel distant. But for Brycen Yamaguchi, a graduate of California Aeronautical University (CAU), that dream became a reality. His journey from flight training in Honolulu to being hired as a commercial pilot at Horizon Air is a testament to his dedication and perseverance, …
If you’re aspiring to become a commercial or airline pilot and you’ve been doing your research, you’ve likely come across references to the ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) and Restricted ATP (R-ATP) certificates in job descriptions and requirements. In this guide, we’ll breakdown what an R-ATP is, the associated benefits and limitations, and the the process …
California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the Kern High School District (KHSD). The University will join KHSD’s Regional Occupational Center (ROC) and Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) in the “Take Flight” collaboration, serving as the professional industry partner to provide students real-world exposure to aviation. As one of …
California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce a new partnership with Lightspeed Aviation aimed at supporting students on their journey to become professional aviators. Through this partnership, CAU students will gain special access to Lightspeed’s premium active noise reduction (ANR) headsets. Winner of Flying Magazine’s “Editor’s Choice Award,” Lightspeed’s headsets are designed with advanced …
California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce its new partnership with Endeavor Air, which will provide CAU students and instructors with a step-by-step pathway to become a pilot at Endeavor Air, a pathway to Delta Air Lines. Through the partnership, CAU will become a university partner of Endeavor’s Student to Pilot (STEP) Program and …
Do you want to become a pilot but don’t know where to begin? How do you know if you’ll like it? Will you make a good pilot? Where do you start training? What flight school should you choose? Do you need a medical exam? How do you make a career out of aviation? If you’re …