Name: Ethan Jimenez
Age: 19
Hometown: Valley Stream, NY.
School:
Graduation Year: 2026
Career Aspirations: Cargo/ Airline Pilot.
Hobbies & Interests: Flying, Plane spotting, Cars, Gym, Basketball, Hiking, Learning, Family time.
Organizations/Clubs: (JetBlue Foundation ACE OBAP) Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.
Why are you passionate about aviation?
I’ve been passionate about aviation ever since I was a young kid. When taking trips with my family, I would sit in the window seat and look out at the wing. Observing the wing flying through the clouds has never left me.
Honestly, I never intended to be a pilot until I was introduced to aviation my junior and senior year of high school. After my first takeoff and landing, I knew that flying was something I needed do. The view of the world from the cockpit is something I fell in love with. Being in control of the aircraft makes me feels as if I have power to do and go wherever I want.
What is your future aspiration?
My future aspirations are to continue to be successful in all aspects of life not only as a pilot. As the first pilot in my family, my dream is to pass the torch to one of my younger family members, or a future child. I want to inspire others to chase their dreams no matter what it is. The only person holding you back is yourself and your mind! Go out there and try to find opportunity because it will come. It can be done.
Why did you choose to apply to Tuskegee NEXT?
The main reason why I applied to the Tuskegee NEXT program is to honor and carry on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airman. Also, to prove to myself I can overcome an immense challenge of getting my licenses in reference to the challenges the Tuskegee Airmen faced. I noticed and applied to this program because I knew flying was for me and wanted to experience something new with others that have similar goals to myself.