Running-Start-Graduate-Launches-Career-as-Airline-Pilot.php

Running Start Graduate Launches Career as Airline Pilot

• Students
• 03/11/2026

When Kayla Hesano graduated from Rock Valley College just a few years ago, she carried more than a diploma, she carried a dream that would soon make her one of the youngest pilots in her field.

 

Kayla’s journey took off when she enrolled in the Running Start program, inspired by her older brother’s achievements. The program enabled her to take college courses while completing high school, providing her with a valuable head start. “Seeing my brother’s experience showed me how valuable Running Start could be,” Kayla recalls.

 

The welcoming atmosphere on campus helped Kayla build friendships with fellow Running Start students and full-time college classmates. She remembers study sessions, grabbing coffee, and exploring campus between classes. “Everyone was welcoming and kind throughout the entire process, which made the transition into college classes much easier,” she says.

Academically, RVC pushed Kayla in new ways. The rigor of college-level courses helped her develop strong study habits and time management skills, qualities that have been essential in her aviation career. Kayla balanced her academic schedule with flight training and stayed connected to her high school through varsity cheer and track. The flexibility at RVC allowed her to pursue her passion for aviation while maintaining friendships and extracurricular activities.

While at RVC, Kayla earned her Associate of Arts degree. She also completed all her flight training at Poplar Grove Airport, earning her Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license. After RVC, Kayla continued her education at Southern Illinois University, completing a bachelor’s degree in aviation technologies, the A&P (Airframe and Power Plant) program. This qualified her for a maintenance license if she ever wanted to work on aircraft. She later worked as a flight instructor at SIU, helping other students achieve their flying goals.

Support from faculty and staff was crucial. Kayla remembers struggling with statistics, but with the help of math tutors and her professors’ encouragement, she persevered. “The tutoring sessions not only helped me academically but also led to some great friendships. The professors genuinely cared and wanted to see everyone succeed,” she says.

One standout mentor was Professor Beth Ingle, whose encouragement left a lasting impression on Kayla. Professor Ingle remembers, “Each year as a teacher, you have maybe one or two students who just beam with positivity and promise. Kayla was that student for me at Rock Valley College. Her dedication and determination were remarkable, especially given her commitment to flight.”

A particularly meaningful moment came after graduation, when Kayla, now a flight instructor, took Professor Ingle and her son on his first flight. “It was a special joy to become Kayla’s student and reverse roles,” Ingle recalls. “Her professionalism and deep respect for safety made a deep impression on me. She conveyed the seriousness and excitement of flying. She not only instructed my son but also found ways to develop his confidence and independence.”

Now, two years into her career, Kayla is a First Officer with Envoy Air a regional airline under American Airlines, flying American Eagle jets. She credits RVC and the Running Start program for helping her reach her goals so quickly and for giving her an early edge in a seniority-driven industry.

Her advice for current and future students: “Take advantage of every opportunity RVC offers. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and get involved in the community. RVC is a place that can really set you up for success, both academically and personally.”

Kayla’s journey is a testament to early ambition, supportive mentors, and the lasting connections alumni share with Rock Valley College. As Professor Ingle says, “Kayla’s passion for flying is infectious. We are so proud of you, Kayla! Keep soaring!”

“RVC challenged me in ways that high school never did."

Kayla Hesano, Former RVC Running Start student