The Air Force's Black Pilot Training Experience

Appendix A: Pilot Responses to Surveys

            The survey responses in this appendix come from black men and women who went through Air Force SUPT from the late 1940’s to 2017. The responses come from two different survey instruments and are grouped by decade below from the most recent to the Tuskegee Airmen era.

            Many of the respondents were willing to attach their names to their survey responses. However, I chose to make most of the responses anonymous to protect every participant from possible retribution—especially those still in uniform (Air Force or Airline uniform). Allowing anonymity, also helped create an atmosphere of safety for all survey participants and paved the way for more genuine responses.

            The intent of the surveys was not to prove a certain point but to capture as much of the experiences, emotions, and thoughts of the black pilots went through SUPT. Again though the surveys were not designed to push the respondents into a certain type of response, there are some inescapable, recurring themes. I encourage you to look for these themes as you read the responses.

            I highlighted the themes as they presented themselves to me, by inserting quotes from the survey responses throughout the book. My specific aim was to let the voices of actual black pilots speak to the issues that I (as a non-pilot) tried to draw attention to in “Black Ceiling.”

            I did not quote all of the survey responses in the main body of the book, due to the sheer volume of responses. And these quotes were just snippets of a person’s entire survey response. Reading a person’s entire set of responses gives you a different and deeper perspective, down to the individual student level.

            Therefore I would strongly encourage you to read through all of the responses. I found reading the survey responses so compelling that I was tempted to make them into a book by themselves! However, I just used the inspiration I found in the responses to help push me to complete this book! Enjoy!

The 2000s

2017 Black Male SUPT student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

4% (i.e., I am the only black person in a class of 24)

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

Significantly less than high school, and still noticeably less than college.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

Initially, I isolated myself due to a feeling that I was the only one who didn’t think and act the same way as the masses. This hurt me in the first phase of training, but as I grew to know and trust my classmates enough to be myself, I have found a lot more success.

In your opinion, does it make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

I believe it does. I am currently attending an international pilot training program, and it is very typical for the internationals, who did not know each other prior to pilot training, to work together in terms of studying, practicing simulators, and even mission prepping. This aids in their success, and likely even their sanity and feeling of belonging. I think it’s safe to say that the feeling of being an outsider is true for black student pilots in a white male-dominated career field.

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience?

In my case, I haven’t had any trouble in this area, but it’s always nice having a few people who look like you in charge.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

I have been given a fair chance and feel that I have been evaluated based on my attitude and effort. Nevertheless, it can be psychologically taxing to be in a community with such strong traditions and very similar personalities all of which seem to clash with my own norms and personality.

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

I had minimal training prior to pilot training. I had 10 hours from the Air Force Academy, 14 hours from initial flight training, +10 hours in Cessnas and the DA-20 in preparation for IFT.

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.

N/A

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

I will finish in 2017

2005 Black Male SUPT student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

My pilot training class was 0.04 percent African American. I was the only one out of 26 students.

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

There were less minorities in my pilot training class (0.12% or 3/26) than my environment at home, in high school, or in college. I was used to a more diverse setting.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

For me, I felt like I had to “carry the torch” which caused me to put more unwarranted pressure on myself. I know for a fact that it caused me to perform negatively. No one actually looked at me like I was supposed to fail, but I always felt as though there were thinking it or expecting it. So I overcompensated for it, wrestling with the demons in my own mind and it caused me to NOT perform at my best.

In your opinion, does it make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

I believe it did back when I was in pilot training, but since I had to go through it on my own, I had to learn to be successful and perform well and learn well from those around me regardless. So my pilot training experience forced me to grow out of that kind of thinking.

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience?

Again, not anymore but it used to. I do feel a heightened sense of pride when I see men and women of color in leadership positions, but I don’t expect anything different from them or suspect that they will act a certain way just because they are a minority like myself.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

Personally, I think there is enough of a perception of a difference that a weaker person can allow the demons in their own head to defeat them. I think just enough “space” is given to identify if the pilot training student is going to let the perception deteriorate their performance from the inside. As for me, yes, I struggled, but that had nothing to do with my instructors or classmates…they were great. I just felt that I had to “Carry the Torch” all alone and the weight of that became daunting at times.

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

I was in a program at USAFA that allowed me to earn my private pilot’s license. It was a very diverse environment, and I did well in it. As a matter of fact, my two primary instructors were from South Africa and Australia. That experience probably made me overconfident for UPT and the humbling experience I had once I got there actually helped me become a better leader because it caged my focus to be more cognizant of the minority ratio and acknowledge it when interacting with people as they go through Life’s “issues.”

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.

I am not overzealous enough to think that I can speak for the experience of any other black student pilot other than myself which I have detailed above. My biggest takeaway is, of course, it’s not as difficult as it was during the era of the Tuskegee Airmen but it still takes a strong-willed individual to complete that grueling program regardless of your race…let alone a minority. The issue is the covert pressure that is put on you versus the blatant, overt pressure.

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

I graduated Pilot Training from Columbus Air Force Base Mississippi in 2005.

2005 Black Male SUPT student

(Moody/Columbus)

How would you characterize your childhood community?

Spent plenty of time in both environments. Moved around a lot as a child.

How would you characterize your high school?

It was about an even split, but minorities had a slight numbers advantage.

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

1

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

12

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Neither helped nor hurt. Female student. Wasn't really a factor. Most of us knew each other from the Academy so we didn't treat her any different and the IPs didn't appear to either. Her dad was a general as well, but it didn't appear to have an impact one way or another from my perspective as a student.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Flight; Guest Pilot.

Was there black leadership at your wing?

There was no black leadership at my base.

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. 3-4 black instructors at the base. Some of the black IPs were my upperclassmen from USAFA, and a couple were not. Both schooled me on keeping my act tight regardless of how the white students acted.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Detriment. Basic social interactions: because I'm the only black student, I get away with nothing, and I get noticed for everything purely because I stick out. My ability to blend in an all-white class doesn't exist. If I'm late for a brief, screw up a stand-up scenario, fly poorly, am out sick, etc., it will inherently stand out in their minds because of how the brain works. At the same time, if I do really well, it didn't go unnoticed either. I don't know if it carried the same weight though and I definitely was never going to get the halo effect. The white students kind of all just blend together so if someone does something dumb or dangerous, they'll be in the microscope for a bit then it'll fade. I knew that if the IPs had a meeting about me, they would remember every lacking performance I ever had because I don't blend at all and the human brain would easily recall it as a "yeah he's had a history of problems" or "didn't he have this same issue last month/last phase?"

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

F-15C

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

Soaring; Cadet Aviation Instructors

2003 Black Male SUPT student

(Laughlin)

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately minority community

How would you characterize your high school?

White students made up the majority of the student population

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

2

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

42

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. Just another person who understood the "inside joke" when times were stressful.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Guest Pilot; Check Pilot; Glenn Gonzales

Was there black leadership at your wing?

There was no black leadership at my base.

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. The one black 38 IP took me on my student cross country and he is who I called when I needed help throughout the program.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Detriment. Challenging socially as always.

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

T-6 FAIP Moody. F-15C/F-22

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

USAFA Soaring

Are you a commercial airline pilot? How Long?

Yes. 2.5 years.

Based on your observations and experiences, how was your experience going through commercial training when compared to USAF pilot training?

More positive experience.

2002 Black Male SUPT student

(Laughlin)

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately minority community

How would you characterize your high school?

White students made up the majority of the student population

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

2

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

42

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. Kevin Brathwaite was a NY National Guard C-5 pilot candidate, so him not being active duty kept the stress off of him, and he was able to keep me updated on when students and IPs would be setting traps for me to fall into (as much as he could). It was also good having the support of somebody who wanted to see me succeed and was not competing with me, so we would study together and he would grill me and ensure I was squared away, because we both knew that I had to be 20 times better than all of our classmates just to be considered in the top 10 to have a chance at fighters. We had to be 10 times better just to not wash out of training (Every black student pilot at Laughlin AFB in 2001-2005 knew this).

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Guest Pilot

Was there black leadership at your wing?

There was no black leadership at my base.

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. When my IPs were clearly trying to wash me out even though I was doing well, there was an IP on base who was a Major. Although he wasn't in my flight/squadron, he kept himself updated on my situation. When things got really tough with my IPs, he stepped in and had a talk with a few of them one-on-one and his rank actually mattered. If he wasn't there, I WOULD NOT be a pilot in the USAF. Huge shout out to Maj Leon Butler.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Detriment. I could write my own book on this experience. To sum it all up: Pilot training is challenging enough, and when you add on the racism piece to it, you get the added stand-up EP test, you get IP's who fail you for items your white counterparts don't, IPs who won't take you cross country, less instruction, you automatically get ranked LAST in flight commander ranking regardless of officership qualities (Flight commander ranking is 20% of your overall ranking). Being a Distinguished Graduate out of ROTC, how can one justify falling last in a class of 40 some 8 months later? And then there are your fellow students, many of which had never had a black person in their class from high school through college. Now they are thrust into this competitive environment with a person that they see as lesser than them. Many of them questioned how we could even have made it into UPT (Affirmative Action). The better I did as a student, the worst I was treated by most IPs and classmates.

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

T-38 First Assignment Instructor Pilot. F-15C

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

USAFA Soaring

2001 Black Male SUPT Student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

4%

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

I was the only minority in my pilot training class. This was in stark contrast to my High School which consisted of 96% minority (Tuskegee Institute High School), and my college University of Alabama, maintained near 12% minority population.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

No significant difference

In your opinion, does make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

I believe it does, as there appears to be a “standard” the courses are attempting to maintain. A quota if you will. I noticed the minorities (Blacks) in the classes although starting at the same time, were spaced out accordingly in the classes to facilitate what appeared to be each class having at least one. This did affect how we perceived and received training believing we had to measure up to a higher standard.

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience?

Yes, it does matter the racial demographic. Simply put, background history and a relative understanding of the perceived struggle within the community and the biases needed to overcome. As class leader, I did not personally experience any of this, however, friends in classes ahead and behind, would speak of a lack of understanding from cadre.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

There is a difference. The cognitive perception is black students are not familiar with aviation and require more explanation of the material. It negatively impacted from day 1, as the instructors believed their bias, and this affected their perception of the student during the interaction. If the student displayed adequate knowledge, there would tend to be question and answer sessions in an attempt to find a “knowledge” gap to exploit.

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

I was an Air Traffic Control Officer prior to pilot training, which allowed me to completely focus on the flying versus having to also learn about airspace and radio calls etc.

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

2001, Vance Air Force Base

You are enjoying a successful career as a commercial airline pilot. How long have you been in this career?

2 years

In your estimation, based on your observations/experiences, have black student pilots done better in training for the airlines than in the military and if so why do you think that is?

It appears to be better; however, in my training class alone at PSA, I was the only Black pilot of 4 to complete the course.

The 1990s

1999 Black Male SUPT student

(Vance/Corpus Christi NAS)

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately white community.

How would you characterize your high school?

Neither minority student nor white students made up the majority of the student population.

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

1

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. Best friend from college, helped relate and network.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Guest pilot.

Was there black leadership at your wing?

There was no black leadership at my base.

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Neither positive nor negative impact. One Navy instructor, no other blacks or minorities.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Detriment. I think after having some initial problems it became a factor with my flight commander who I didn't get along with.

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

C-130

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

USAFA T-3s

Are you a commercial airline pilot? How Long?

Yes. 13 years.

Based on your observations and experiences, how was your experience going through commercial training when compared to USAF pilot training?

More positive experience.

1998 Black Female SUPT student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

If memory serves, my UPT class was two flights of about 15 people each. So, a total of about 30 people... I was the only American black in the class. We had an international student from Botswana for a while.   He made it through ground school, but when we hit the actual flying portion, he was kicked out of the program after a few weeks. I believe the issue was a language barrier. So, 1 out of 30 is 3%.

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

I was used to being the only black kid in the room during high school. I had a diverse high school, but since I was in honors classes, it was basically me and one other black girl in all those classes. The teachers used to get us mixed up even though we didn’t look alike. Since I went to the Air Force Academy, the lack of minorities at pilot training did not surprise me. Very few of my black classmates decided to even go to pilot training. So many opted for careers in acquisition or personnel. Pretty sure I was the only minority in my major at USAFA. My home environment was filled with minorities. I had two black parents and an older black sister. :) But I left home (New York) at 17 and never came back due to my career.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

I will say that early on in pilot training, I made a cavalier comment about not wanting to end up in bombers. For a brief time, bombers were an option on the T-1 side instead of where they usually are, on the T-38 side. That comment amongst the white flight instructors morphed into “She’s going to quit the program if she thinks she’s going to wind up with a bomber.” Not true. I also heard that the white instructors thought they really needed to make sure I made it through the program since I was a visible minority (woman and black). I ran across several crusty, good old boy instructors (civilian contractors) in the flight simulator who thought I had an “attitude.” There was no pleasing some of those guys at times.  

In your opinion, does make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

I would have liked to have connected with more women going through pilot training. After one girl dropped out, I wound up being the only female in my flight. It would have helped if I had female instructors to provide a different take on the instruction. I didn’t fly with a female instructor until I was halfway through T-1s and she was occasional guest help. There were two black pilots in the class ahead of mine, and whenever I’d run into them, we’d swap stories about certain biases. These conversations helped me not to feel totally isolated.

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience? When I went through pilot training, there was only one black pilot instructor, and he was on the T-38 side.   After track select, I went T-1s, so I saw the guy around but never had any meaningful conversation with him. Examples to model yourself after are always beneficial. It wasn’t until I was on my first deployment that I ever saw another black female pilot. I only met a total of 3 other black female pilots during my entire career. For some perspective, I spent just under 10 years on active duty before transferring to the reserves. I currently have 20 years of service.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

I don’t think it makes a difference in the procedures you need to learn but I will say it makes a big difference socially. Cliques tend to form and the white students, since there’s more of them, are sharing information with each other to get ahead in the program. Being a woman and being black, you’re always kind of the odd man out.  

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

I got enough private time in a Cessna to solo prior to UPT and at the Air Force Academy. I went through the T-3 flight screening program.

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.

I wish I could think of more, but it’s been so long. It seems like another lifetime ago.

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

Graduated in 1998 from Laughlin AFB, TX.

1996 Black Male SUPT student

(Vance)

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately minority community

How would you characterize your high school?

White students made up the majority of the student population

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

5 or more

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

32

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. Provided a support network despite the fact that 50% of my class was made up of USAFA classmates.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Guest Pilot

Was there black leadership at your wing?

Flight CC

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. They actively looked out for us and checked on us.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Neither a benefit nor a detriment. Did not feel like it was an issue either way

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

KC-10

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

USAFA Soaring; USAFA T-41

1990 Black Male SUPT student

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately white community

How would you characterize your high school?

Minority students made up the majority of the student population

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

2

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

Approx 20.

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. We studied and socialized as a class often. I was in the middle of the class. He was at the bottom. We supported each other, but not sure of the net quantitative effect. Moral support...absolutely.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Guest pilot.

Was there black leadership at your wing?

Flight CC.

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. 5-6 black instructors at the base. The black IPs all knew my brother. They all made it a point to reach out to me and offer assistance. They all said not to wait to ask for help.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Neither a benefit nor a detriment. Many of the FAIPs were USAFA or UPT classmates of my brother who was well-liked/respected. I had more than a few people "looking out" for me. This was not like most black UPT students.

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

C-130E

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

FSP/LATR

1991 Black Female SUPT student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

I had 3/25 blacks in my training class. All were from my USAFA class. 12%

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

For me, it was an increase to have three African Americans in my training class. In elementary school, I had 3 blacks in the entire school. In high school, there might have been 10 or so AA students in my graduating class of 300+. The Seattle area is more diverse now, but it was not when I was growing up in the suburb of Bellevue, WA in the 70s and 80s. Other contributing factors for me were having 5/25 women in my class (not black besides me) and a mostly USAFA class (my commissioning source).

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

It had a tremendous impact! I’m still friends with these classmates today. For example, the morning of my UPT checkride, my classmates woke up at the crack of dawn and made my navigation charts for me, and encouraged me during my ground eval. They supported me and believed in me when some of my other classmates did not. They invited me to their family homes, and I met their parents and had a hot meal along with some other classmates. This positive encouragement made a big difference for me!

In your opinion, does it make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

I think that it certainly can. For me, it was key (if there were not other AA students, which I only had that one time) to have AA mentors guiding me along overall, and especially focused direction during the training programs. I learned to actively reach out for guidance and support. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to have other AA students in class on a regular basis. The support and encouragement would be invaluable!

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience?

It makes a big difference! Even though it is not a training example. When I worked at AMC HQ, the AMC/CC and the Reserve IMA two star were AA (one was AA and female!). It reached me to my core—the fact that they were AAs and such good leaders. It was a big boost! In the training environment, it would have the same effect. I encountered, but rarely flew with the AA instructors in UPT.   It was nice to at least know that they were there supporting me, even if they were in different flights.

There were several things that truly helped during UPT. The AA instructor corps developed an unofficial mentoring program where they kept an eye on us. Also, I had an AA female student who was six months ahead of me. It really helped to have her there.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

Yes! Fitting in culturally, knowing you can make it, instructors are more inclined to feel comfortable, give you a break and cut you some slack. For example, I asked to attend my sister’s High School graduation and was harshly criticized by the white instructors for even asking. I know that sometimes it just isn’t possible, but I believed that it should be okay to at least ask. The instructors were very formal and kept a distance from me. We did not socialize. Several made it known that they did not regard me highly, or think that I belonged there. Last year I spoke with one of my USAFA classmates who is currently an O-6 in the AF Reserve and went to a different UPT base. During UPT he had broken up with his girlfriend (now his current wife). The instructors TOOK HIM OUT DRINKING (whaaaaatttt???? Say again???) during UPT, which they apparently did on a regular basis he told me (against the rules???). They told him that they were very worried about him and that he should take as much time off as he needed to get his head back in the game. Current day mental health discussions aside—and keeping in mind that I also broke up with my boyfriend during UPT, and I wasn’t allowed to go to a legitimate function!   My jaw dropped open at this revelation and still remains wide open to this day! The rankings receive affect the airplane that you receive and help to propel your career. I think that this really put me at a disadvantage.

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

I completed the soaring/USAFA glider program. I actually washed out of this program because I could not find an instructor to take me on and be my permanent instructor. It was almost as if they were repelled by the idea of having me as a student. This still makes me sad. I also had a T-43 navigation training flight—one or two maybe. I soloed in the Cessna 172 in the USAFA T-41 program. I completed USAFA jump school and earned my jump wings in the elective class. I had one orientation flight prior to starting USAFA (as a civilian that my parents paid for) to see if I was really interested in aviation. With all of this, I was much more prepared than I would have been otherwise, but I struggled in UPT and was 24/25 in my class. I was so grateful to receive a “banked” tanker on my drop night. I felt woefully unprepared on a personal general knowledge level overall.

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.

When I arrived at UPT I was dismayed to set that there seemed to be a “washout mill” of African American students. While AA instructors tried their best, and I truly appreciate it, I felt as if the majority just really didn’t care, and didn’t do anything to correct the issue, to get to the root cause or to try to stem the flow.

Why did I graduate from UPT? 1) The African American instructor pilots from different flights that took the time to mentor me and continued to check on me, 2) I had an African American female student pilot (Lt Col ret Monica Smith) who was 6 months ahead of me and mentored me and assisted me in my studies, 3) my own drive and determination, and 4) My instructor Col (ret) then Lt Kevin Mastin. He was determined that I would make it, gave my training his all, and continued to follow me throughout my career. He went on to become a Thunderbird pilot and an 0-6 before he retired.

It seems that things are different now than when I went through UPT. I see students excelling and doing well. But still, overall our numbers are very low. And I saw very few to no AA UPT students in my unit of the AF Reserve.

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

I completed my training in September of 1991. I was class 91-14 from Laughlin AFB, TX.

You are enjoying a successful career as a commercial airline pilot. How long have you been in this career? In your estimation, based on your observations/experiences, have black student pilots done better in training for the airlines than in the military and if so why do you think that is?

I started class on Feb 2, 2001, with Alaska Airlines. I’ve flown the MD-80 and the 737. I’ve been with Alaska Airlines for 16 years.   To be honest, I’ve spent most of my time with the airline on military leave (14 or so years lol!), but I will try my best to give me impressions.

For the airlines, the biggest hurdle seems to be getting minority pilots the foot in the door and getting them hired at all. Most AA pilots do succeed from what I’ve seen once they get into the door. What I have seen, read, and heard discussed about for the airlines is that they have historically done a poor job of promoting and providing opportunities for AA pilots to serve in senior management positions: chief pilot, VP of operations, instructor pilot and so on. I understand that AA pilots from United Airlines in the 90s brought a lawsuit against the company for not promoting AA pilots in senior management jobs. I’ve also heard that for a while there, AA pilots were perhaps more danger of being fired if something went wrong, though now most airlines seem to have gone to the once we have you, we’ll provide you with the amount of training that you need to succeed. We did have an African American Chief Pilot and VP of Operations, Alaska Airlines Captain Mike Swanigan. (At one time he was a C-130 pilot with the Alaska Air National Guard!).

My impression is that in the military it is also hard to get in and make it through training. But I have seen examples of AA’s making it to senior leadership positions (AMC/CC, TRANSCOM/CC, WG/CC, OG/CC) more frequently than at the airlines.

1991 Black Female SUPT student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

1/27; same for women

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

About the same as college and high school, but not home as I grew up in a predominantly Black neighborhood.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

First, I had already been in the service for five years, so the racial make-up was nothing new to me. My educational experiences made being around Whites a non-issue for me as well. My first assignment in the Air Force was in flight test—literally an all-White, all-male enclave—and that prepared me. The biggest challenge is gender, in my opinion. I already knew the Tuskegee Airmen had paved the way for Blacks, but some male instructors were not ready for women who flew well.

In your opinion, does it make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

No, but it’s sure nice. I was a captain, so I always checked up on the Black students who I noticed in training. I remember this one brother, “Everything’s fine,” all the time. One week I saw him, stopping him before he headed outside to ask how things were going; he was about to fly his “89” ride which, if he failed, would eliminate him from the program. I had just seen him not ten days earlier, and all was well, supposedly. He said he was too embarrassed to say anything, but on the eve of an 89, it’s a bit too late for help because you’re either going to get a reprieve or pack for home. He failed, and I never saw him again.

I will also say it was nice to see Black instructor pilots (I can think of five at my base). There were no Black women instructors, but the base had three or four women instructors that I can recall (out of about 200). The guys definitely checked on me, but no women did; I saw it as my duty, being a senior-ranking student, to check on all Black students coming behind me, and I did to the best of my ability.

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience?

So it’s not so much about the demographic as it is about exposure to other demographics, along with one’s ability to accept people based on demonstrated performance, rather than preconceived notions (stereotypes). I’ve had great experiences with some White instructors and crumby experiences with only one Black instructor; I had lousy experiences with at least two White instructors, but neither of them flew with me regularly.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

Okay, everyone—and I mean EVERYone—who grows up in America is socialized in a racially biased society which affects one’s perspective, IMHO (In my honest opinion). Those who are aware of the biases can take proactive steps to mitigate the negative impacts, especially in educational and training environments. The “blissfully ignorant” wreak havoc on the rest of society, and hopefully, one day educate themselves.

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

No ACE camps. I asked to join FIT—fourteen hours of flight training-- in college (ROTC) but was told there were no more pilot slots, so I could not enter Flight Indoctrination Training. At the time, ROTC also gave each cadet two general aviation lessons, which I took full advantage of and loved (landed on my first flight, albeit not so well!) During three of the five (or so) years I applied for a pilot slot while on active duty, I took flying lessons. When I was accepted for training, I quickly finished up my FAA private pilot license so I would not have to attend Hondo (in Texas), a program I saw as another opportunity to wash out and I’d heard Black students had not fared well at Hondo, in what was described to me as a “redneck” environment.

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.

I think it’s very important, as it was in college, to quickly establish a solid study group. I set up a six-day work schedule to support my flight training goals, giving myself ½ to a full day off once a week, but often studying a little even on that day. I will say your spouse or significant other must be 100% on board with your goal, or you should treat the assignment as a remote tour. The guy I mentioned earlier had an unsupportive spouse (according to him), and after he washed out, I would not be surprised if he blamed her in some way. Lastly, I would be sure to get as much info from recently graduated students and latch onto one or two mentors; I might not have made it through so well without calls from a fighter test pilot—and a brother--I knew from my first assignment.

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

1991 at Laughlin AFB TX.

1990 Black Male SUPT student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

20%

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

The percentage of blacks in my pilot training class represented my high school, college and home environment very closely. I believe the percentage of black people in the U. S. is 13%, and the cultural makeup that I have been exposed to in life has always been relatively close to that level of diversity.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

There was not a significant difference in my particular pilot training “class.” However, if you look at the overall number of students in UPT, and compare the number of black students, you will find a very dismal number. With that being said, I don’t think it made a significant difference in my development as a pilot.

In your opinion, does make a difference, regarding your success, how many other black pilots are going through training at the same time as you? Why or why not?

Socially, yes, it makes a huge difference. I think it is critically important for the black students, families, and children to have others in their environment that look like them. Culturally, we tend to have different needs, do things differently, and have different priorities. Professionally, however, I found UPT to be a relatively level playing field. I think a large part of that had to do with the fact that General “Fig” Newton was the Wing Commander. He was the only black Wing Commander at the time, who happened to be a past member of the Thunderbirds, and many of the black pilots from AFA chose to go there solely due to his presence. The mantra at the time was, “Go to Vance to have a chance.”

In your opinion, does it make a difference what the racial demographic of your training cadre or leadership team is? Why or why not? Please share any specific examples from your experience?

Absolutely! I found there to be an inherent bias by some of the training cadre who may have had a difficult time getting accepted into UPT themselves, or had friends who were not accepted. Although white males often make up more than 90% of the instructors, there were definitely a number who felt Black pilots were given a handout and didn’t deserve being there. I guess 90% was still not enough… There were also those who were raised in an environment where they were insensitive to cultural diversity. These are the types of biases that factor into SOME instructors making things more difficult for UPT students that didn’t look like them.

In your opinion, or based on your experience, is there a difference for a black person going through pilot training compared to a white person? If so, do you feel that the difference positively or negatively impacts the success of black student pilots?

I feel there is a difference, but one’s success, or lack thereof, is determined by how they approach that difference. I knew about and anticipated this bias and chose to work harder than everyone else. My goal was to be better than everyone else in every way. I wanted to ensure the instructors had no choice but to see me as one of the best. I made sure my appearance was impeccable; my knowledge of the material was second to none, and I would spend hours every night rehearsing for my flights the following day. I was constantly told not to worry about studying prior to the start of our formal training. When I arrived on day one, I had much of the required material already committed to memory. This approach allowed me to finish UPT as the #1 graduate in my class.

Describe/detail the flight training you had (if any) before Air Force flight training (ACE camps, Young Eagles incentive flights, ground school, etc. and describe how it may have impacted your success in Air Force flight training.

I had not additional flight training outside of what was provided by the Air Force.

Sharing your experiences/thoughts. Please use this section to share any experiences or thoughts on this topic from your experiences, the experiences of others, etc. that you feel are relevant to the of the experience of black student pilots in Air Force pilot training.

I personally feel that the Air Force does a better job than most large American employers in preventing racial bias from rearing its ugly head. Of course, bias still exists, but the career repercussions are severe enough to keep it to a minimum. My beliefs have always been to face racism head-on, work harder, be better, and possess higher ethical boundaries. It’s very difficult to change others, but you can definitely change yourself.

What year did you complete your training and at what location?

1990 Vance AFB, OK

You are enjoying a successful career as a commercial airline pilot. How long have you been in this career? In your estimation, based on your observations/experiences, have black student pilots done better in training for the airlines than in the military and if so why do you think that is?

I have been flying for UPS for almost 24 years, and have been a captain for 16 years. I have had the opportunity to fly with a large number of military and civilian trained pilots, and I find the military trained pilots to be far superior aviators, in general. The same is true for my experience with Black pilots specifically. Military just seems to produce a far better product.

1990 Black Male SUPT student

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately minority community

How would you characterize your high school?

White students made up the majority of the student population

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

5 or more

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

Don’t remember. Approx 27.

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. Instantaneous support group. Made it more difficult for someone to be singled out.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

I never flew with a black instructor.

Was there black leadership at your wing?

Wing CC.

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. Col "Fig" Newton set the example and made others accountable for their decisions.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Neither a benefit nor a detriment. Since there were so many black pilots in my class, we were considered just a part of the group as a whole.

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

C-141 (Travis AFB)

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

USAFA Soaring

Are you a commercial airline pilot? How Long?

Yes. 19 years.

Based on your observations and experiences, how was your experience going through commercial training when compared to USAF pilot training?

Neither positive nor negative.

1990 Black Male SUPT student

How would you characterize your childhood community?

It would be considered a predominately minority community.

How would you characterize your high school?

Minority students made up the majority of the student population.

How many blacks were in your pilot training class including yourself?

5 or more.

Total number of student pilots who initially entered pilot training with you?

Do you feel that having the other minority pilot helped you during training? Please explain.

Yes. It was motivational to have someone who looked/felt like me going through what I went through.

Did you ever fly with a black instructor in your flight, guest help, or check pilot?

Guest pilot.

Was there black leadership at your wing?

Wing CC. (Vance, AFB)

How was your pilot training experience impacted by the presence of black instructors or black leadership? Please explain.

Positive impact. As stated before, motivation from someone who went through what I was going through.

In your opinion was being black a benefit or detriment during training? Please explain.

Detriment. Did not necessarily receive the benefit of the doubt at times. Some double standards in regard to evaluations and instruction.

What was your assigned aircraft out of UPT? Primary MDS?

C-12F. KC-10A.

In which flight program(s) did you participate prior to pilot training?  

USAFA Soaring.

Are you a commercial airline pilot? How Long?

Yes. 18 years.

Based on your observations and experiences, how was your experience going through commercial training when compared to USAF pilot training?

More positive experience.

The 1980s

1989 Black Male SUPT Student

What would you say was the percentage of blacks was in your training class?

8%

Describe how the number of minorities in your pilot training environment compared to your high school, college and home environment (growing up).

I went to a private high school and college……so the percentages were significantly higher than my high school and slightly less than my college class. In my home environment, it was a predominantly black.

If there was a significant difference describe what impact it had (if any) on your success in training and why?

I felt had the weight of my community on my shoulders. At that time, the washout rate of blacks had skyrocketed, and the Air Force was very concerned about what to do. I had spoken to one candidate who I knew only through friends and another (an Air Force Academy grad…a member of the “fraternity”) who I worked with who felt he’d been discriminated against because he was dating a white woman and his instructors found out...I went off to pilot training proud and scared. My nurturing along the way, I believe, was the biggest factor. I was young, and as a young black man, I was a little “bullet-proof.” My mindset at the time was one of “if they can do it, so could I”. These mentalities are easily manifested in some youth...I must have gone through the “silly mentality