From Small Town to Big Skies: Meet Lainie Zinser
Meet Lainie Zinser, a passionate young aviator from a small town in Wisconsin. “I started flying when I was 16 years old at a small Part 61 school 40 minutes away from my home,” she shares, reflecting on her early start to her aviation journey. Throughout high school, Lainie diligently worked toward earning her private pilot license, a milestone she achieved after graduating early. She returned for her fourth year at EAA Oshkosh AirVenture – an event she calls, “the best air show in the world.” She enthusiastically recommends the experience, noting that it has “improved [her] journey as a pilot” and continues to inspire her growth in aviation.
When asked if aviation was always her goal, Lainie admits, “growing up, I never had a clear idea of a career path.” Like many young people, she explored various options, cycling through “the normal phases of basic jobs” without finding the right fit. That changed when aviation came into view. “I waited for the right path,” she explains, “and one day it became aviation.” Now, she’s fully committed to the skies, having found her true calling in aviation.
Lainie’s experience as a woman in aviation has been largely positive. “I haven’t had many challenges,” she says, crediting the encouragement she received from those around her. “I have gotten support from mostly everyone around me and the groups that I am a part of.” Her message to other aspiring female pilots is one of confidence and reassurance: “As a woman, you shouldn’t be scared to do something you have a passion for because you will always have supporters.” Her story is a testament to the growing inclusivity in aviation and the power of a strong support system.
Beginning flight training can be daunting, and for Lainie, the nerves were real. “I had no idea how an airplane worked and how I was going to be the one responsible to fly it,” she recalls about beginning her flight training journey. While joining Phoenix East Aviation gave her the foundation, she admits, “I knew I still had so much to learn, which was intimidating and exciting at the same time.” The transition wasn’t just academic – it was personal. Moving across the country to Florida and leaving the only home she had known for 18 years was a major step. But like many students, Lainie has faced those challenges head-on and, in the process, “made many memories.”
Despite the nerves she overcame, challenges she faced, and the steep learning curve, Lainie has found unforgettable moments that make her flight training journey worthwhile. One of her favorite memories came during an instrument cross-country flight. “We had departed late, but it was worth it when we got out of the clouds and the sky opened up to one of the prettiest sunsets,” she recalls. It was a breathtaking reminder of why she chose aviation – a blend of challenge, beauty, and moments that stay with her a long time after landing.
Moments like that sunset remind Lainie not only of the beauty of flying, but also of the importance of staying grounded in the learning process. One piece of advice that has stayed with her throughout flight training is the balance between efficiency and enjoyment: “Be thorough and quick with training, but also enjoy your time as a student,” she shares. It’s a mindset that has helped her stay focused while still appreciating the unique experiences that come with being a student pilot. That mindset has helped Lainie keep moving forward while still enjoying the ride. So far, she’s earned her Instrument Rating and is now a Commercial Pilot – big milestones that show just how far she’s come since those first nervous days of training.
Looking back on her flight training journey, Lainie has some simple but powerful advice for others just starting out: “Give it your all and accept mistakes by learning from .” She knows firsthand that progress doesn’t happen overnight and reminds fellow students that “everything comes with time.” It’s the mindset that’s carried her through the ups and downs of training – and one she hopes will inspire others to stay patient, persistent, and passionate.
Building upon that, she encourages young women thinking about a career in aviation to dive into the aviation community early on. “Get involved with the many groups in the community and meet people,” she advises. For her, connecting with others in aviation has been a source of support, motivation, and opportunity – and she believes it can make all the difference for those just starting their flight training journey.
Now well into her training, Lainie is currently working on her Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating and has logged around 280 hours of flight time. Her sights are set on the airlines, where she hopes to “continue getting to pursue my passion like I do everyday.” From a small town in Wisconsin to the skies across the country, Lainie’s story is one of steady progress, strong community, and a deep love for aviation. With her determination and positive outlook, she’s well on her way – and she’s excited to see where her journey takes her next.
Did you take Lainie’s advice and get a chance to stop by the PEA booth in Oshkosh this year? If not and you are still waiting for your dreams to take flight? Contact their Admissions Department by emailing info2@pea.com for more information!
