NIFA schools bring about spirited competition while developing lifelong relationships. You can benefit as a student but the real reward is giving back to the next generation of students as a judge and passing the baton to the future of aviation. The time spent as a competitor, a coach, and a judge helped me to become a better professional and mentor to others.

Captain, Southwest Airlines

NIFA was absolutely one of the formative experiences I had at Ohio State. Team work, hard work, and networking are what drive success in aviation and NIFA encourages all of these in spades. I would recommend this organization to anyone pursuing a career in aviation.

Managing Partner, Foxtrot Aviation Services

NIFA isn’t just a way to network and further your career. It’s a path for students to find passion and competition in flying, hone your skills, and meet lifelong friends. I loved every minute I spent with my teammates, coaches, and fellow competitors. This network of students and industry professionals is invaluable to anyone looking to jump into the world of aviation. I wouldn’t be the pilot I am today without NIFA and it’s amazing volunteers.

First Officer, Delta Air Lines

Being a competitior within the NIFA organization was the best and most memorable part of my collegiate career. The SAFECON events sponsor a spirit of excellence and allowed me to accelerate my aviation career. Through networking with industry, team building amongst classmates, and having the drive to excel in the competition, NIFA allowed me to grow as both an aviator and an individual, have the leadership roles I'm in now, and opened many doors for future success.

Air Traffic Control Specialist, FAA

NIFA has been an integral part of my career. Not only have I made lifelong friends from my time on the team and judging, but also priceless industry connections. I owe a big part of where I am today professionally to people I met through NIFA. Students today will benefit from that same type of networking and create lifelong friends in the process.

First Officer, United Airlines

NIFA continues to be one of the greatest parts of college for me; flying in the airlines has been awesome, especially running into fellow former competitors. Being part of the team not only helped my physical flying skills, but it assisted my teaching and leadership opportunities due to helping others learn to compete at the same level. NIFA is amazing and I will forever love this program. It was absolutely amazing to be a part of, not just as a student but on the coaching side as well.

First Officer, Endeavor Air

NIFA provided me an opportunity as a student to push myself to be a better aviator and student. The people I have met through this organization have been lifelong friends, colleagues, and mentors throughout my career. As a longtime sponsor of the organization, its schools, and most importantly it’s student competitors I always look forward to attending and supporting a NIFA event. These are some of the best people in our industry and the opportunity to support this organization is something ASA is honored to participate.

President, ASA

Participating in NIFA allows students to take their passion and skill and amplify it. It not only provides a competitive stage for showcasing talent, but creates an environment to build commaraderie and lifelong relationships. Continuing my participation in NIFA today as a coach allows me the opportunity to carry on the legacy of excellence in our school, but also ensuring the next generation of students have the same, if not better, experience that I did.

Corporate Pilot, Advanced Drainage Systems

We’ve seen a noticeable increase in knowledge and flight skills for our students competing in NIFA events. This experience stands out to potential employers who know NIFA and value the experience students gain from competing.

Head Coach, Dispatch Manager