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In this episode, we welcome Charles Small, a flight instructor from Richmond, Virginia — and a Black Educators Matter first. Not only is Charles our first aviation instructor featured on the podcast, but he is also the son and brother of two previous podcast guests, making this a true family affair. His journey into aviation began with a single tour of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 10th grade, where one encounter changed the trajectory of his life. What followed was years of grinding, working multiple jobs, playing rugby, and even fighting professionally, all to fund the $130,000 path to becoming a certified flight instructor.
Charles is passionate about what his presence in the cockpit means for the next generation. In a field dominated by a "boys' club" culture where Black instructors are rare, he understands that visibility is everything. His call to action is encouraging other professional pilots to return to their communities and speak to students directly, showing them that aviation is within reach. His teaching philosophy is rooted in safety, patience, and letting students grow through the process. And while the skies may not yet be equal, Charles Small is doing his part to make sure more Black students look up and see themselves there.
