Students Explore Aviation Careers at T82

News Release - March 26, 2026

EAA chapter 1088 Vice President Bill Lucy tours the students through the TacAero Hangar discussing the different aircraft including a red Vintage 1943 Waco and yellow Carbon Cub.  Both made a big impression.

The morning of March 26th at Gillespie County Airport wasn’t just another school day for the Fredericksburg High School Aviation students. Instead of textbooks and desks, they were met with the smell of avgas and the gleaming aluminum of a dozen different flight paths.

High School Aviation Students

Led by their teacher, Kade Jenschke, the students stepped onto the tarmac for a "mini Airport Day" curated by Bill Lucy, Vice President of EAA 1088, and Gwen Fullbrook, owner of Crosswind Aviation. Their mission: to see that the sky isn't the limit—it’s the workplace.

From Backcountry to Business Jets

The journey began at TacAero Tailwheel Academy. Here, the students stepped into the world of "sticks and rudders." They explored a lineup of Cubcrafters and Gamebirds, learning how pilots train for the rugged demands of backcountry flying and floatplane operations.

Fredericksburg High School Aviation Students were given an opportunity to ask Ethan Crane, Owner and Operator of Fredericksburg FBO, questions about the Citation X jet.

The perspective shifted from adventure to industry when they met Ethan Crane, operator of the Fredericksburg FBO. Standing among the hangars, Crane pulled back the curtain on the machinery required to keep an airport running. Drawing on his past life as a corporate pilot, he offered a firsthand account of the precision and professionalism required to fly for the world’s top executives.

Coastal Air Strike Pilot Steve Lakey invited students to take a closeup look into the cockpit of an AT-802 single engine air tanker.

The Front Lines: Aerial Firefighting

One of the most imposing sights of the day was the AT-802 SEAT (Single Engine Air Tanker) stationed at the Texas A&M Forest Service ramp. These massive yellow-and-black tankers, owned by Western Pilot and Coastal Airstrike, act as the cavalry during fire season.

"When there is some down time, pilots and staff happily show off the aircraft," explained Dayziah Petruska of the TAMU Forest Service.

The students stood in the shadow of the tankers, learning how these planes are contracted by the federal government to stand watch over Texas, ready to deploy at a moment's notice to combat wildfires.

A Future in Flight

For students like Jett Barnett, the tour was more than just a field trip—it was a glimpse into his own near future. Jett is already well on his way, having recently checked off a major milestone: his first solo towered landing.

As the afternoon sun began to dip, Bill Lucy gathered the group for one final question: "If you could take one home, which would it be?"

The answers came fast and varied. Some pointed to the high-tech tankers, others to the nimble aerobatic birds, and a few fell in love with the timeless lines of the Vintage Waco.

"It brings to life the career opportunities as well as a lifelong adventure," Gwen Fullbrook noted, watching the inspired group head back to the bus. This was only the beginning; with more businesses left to visit, the next chapter of their aviation education is already being cleared for takeoff.

Ethan Crane, Owner and Operator of Fredericksburg FBO going over flight controls with the students.