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Students from the JROTC programs at Morristown East and Morristown West High Schools recently took to the skies during a special visit with the Young Eagles program at the local airport, where volunteer pilots introduced them to the fundamentals and excitement of aviation.

The event was hosted by Karen and Nelson Collins and organized through Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1494. Pilots from the chapter volunteered their time and aircraft so each student could experience a flight.

For many of the cadets, the highlight of the day was sitting in the pilot’s seat and taking control of the airplane while in the air. Under the guidance of experienced pilots, students learned how the controls respond, how wind affects the aircraft, and how to maintain balance and direction in flight. Organizers said focusing on the mechanics of flying often helps students quickly move past any nervousness they might feel before takeoff.

While one group of six students flew one at a time, another group spent time using a flight simulator to practice the basics of aviation. The rotation allowed everyone to stay engaged while learning about the different elements of flying.

The visit also introduced students to the Young Eagles program, a nationwide initiative through the EAA that offers free aviation experiences for young people ages 8 through 18. Participants receive simulator time and a flight with a volunteer pilot, along with a certificate and a signed flight log to begin tracking their aviation experiences.

Young Eagles also offers additional opportunities for students who develop an interest in aviation. Participants can work on a “Kid Build” project in which young people help construct an airplane. Once the aircraft is completed, those involved will have the opportunity to fly in the finished plane. The program also provides scholarships for students who want to work toward earning their pilot’s license.

Volunteer pilot Juliette Cash brought her Rosie the Riveter–themed airplane for the event. Cash said the program is one she always looks forward to supporting.

“Any excuse to fly,” Cash said with a smile. “But seriously, I want to give young people the opportunity to experience flight.”

Among the volunteers and attendees of the event was Mason Macaulay, a JROTC member who has been involved with Young Eagles for four years. This outing marked his fifth Young Eagles flight.

“I just really like airplanes,” Macaulay said. He hopes to pursue a career in the Air Force.

Students who took part said the experience offered a new perspective.

“This was a fun experience,” said JROTC student Laila Gonzalez.

Jastelin Morales, the student commander for the group, was selected for a special opportunity to ride in a jet during the event.

“The jet was very smooth,” Morales said. “It was kind of like driving a car.”

JROTC instructor Jim Thigpen said experiences like the Young Eagles flights open doors students may not have considered before.

“We’re introducing them to aviation and unveiling a new world to them,” Thigpen said. “We’re birthing passions.”

He noted that former students who participated in similar aviation opportunities have gone on to successful careers in the field. Beyond aviation, Thigpen said programs like JROTC help build important life skills.

“The biggest thing is we are instilling confidence,” he said. “It helps with communication, leadership, and conflict resolution. We’re getting them ready for the real world. Programs like this make teaching fun.”

Thigpen also pointed out that the local program reflects strong participation from female students.

“Our JROTC program here is about 50 percent female,” he said. “Many places are still around 70 to 80 percent male, so we’re very happy about that.”

For the students who climbed into the cockpit, the experience offered more than just a scenic flight. It provided a hands-on introduction to aviation and, for some, the beginning of a possible future career.