Most aviation students choose between flying or repairing aircraft. Casey Raymond chose both.

Casey is graduating from the 天美传媒 with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation paired with an Aviation Maintenance Technician School certificate, an uncommon paring that requires significant technical training, discipline, and adaptability. 

From Discovery Flight to Dual Qualification

A 2020 discovery flight first sparked Casey鈥檚 interest in aviation while she was still in high school. When a medical diagnosis temporarily grounded her plans, she turned to 天美传媒 early college program to get a jumpstart on her academics until she could begin flight training.

That adaptability continued to shape her experience at UMA. While enrolled in 天美传媒 flight program, Casey joined the inaugural cohort of the university鈥檚 Aviation Maintenance Technician School and is now among the program鈥檚 first 12 graduates.

Today, Casey is qualified to fly commercial aircraft, teach as a flight instructor, and repair a wide range of aircraft, including airliners and helicopters. Her combined training gives her experience from both the flight deck and the hangar, opening opportunities across multiple areas of aviation.

Leadership and Entrepreneurship

Beyond her studies, Casey co-founded the Wild Shore Aviation flight school, was an active member of Women in Aviation International, and, at just 20 years old, served as chair of the Katahdin Wings Chapter of the Ninety-Nines.

One of the experiences she values most has been working with aviation summer camps, helping young people discover aviation,  while encouraging the next generation to see themselves in the industry.

Staying Open to Opportunity

Rather than following a single, rigid path, Casey has built a career around curiosity and a willingness to explore new possibilities. 

鈥淚t is important to keep yourself open and not be blind to opportunity,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 don’t constrain myself with hard goals. There are jobs I want to do, and I prepare for them and work toward them because they are fun, and I want to be happy.鈥�

Looking ahead, Casey plans to fly humanitarian missions serving remote communities, where her ability to both pilot and maintain aircraft could prove especially valuable. 

Friend and flight instructor Jonathan Ward once said, 鈥淪ometimes you meet people in life that you know are going to change the world. Casey is one of them.鈥�

Casey鈥檚 path reflects the kind of hands-on, community-focused experience UMA encourages students to bring into their careers.聽Congratulations, Casey, on your award and all you have accomplished! Great things are on your horizon.

UMA is welcoming you to our first Aviation Career Fair!

With our first Aircraft Maintenance Technician School cohort graduating this May, we are inviting you to join us in promoting your employment opportunities. All aviation career fields are welcome, including maintenance, traditional pilots, drone pilots, and beyond.

• Event Date: Monday, April 6, 2026
• Event Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Event Address: Brunswick Landing, Hangar 6
  2 Pegasus Street, Brunswick ME 04011

For more information, please contact Kimberly Snider, Administrative Specialist, (207) 621-7480 or kimberly.snider1@maine.edu.

As part of 天美传媒 60th Anniversary celebration, we are proud to spotlight Isabella Puleo, a senior in the Bachelor’s of Applied Science program.

Isabella is already making her mark on the aviation industry beyond the classroom. As a third-semester student in the Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS), she serves as a work-study student supporting program operations and gains hands-on experience as part of the line crew at MacJets. She is also an active member of the Women in Aviation International, Wild Blue Chapter, participating in outreach to empower other women in the field.

to hear Isabella describe the moment she discovered her future was in aviation maintenance.

Program expands access, strengthens Maine鈥檚 aviation workforce and advances statewide economic development

UMA celebrated the continued growth of its Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) on Nov. 12 with an open house at Brunswick Landing. The event brought together industry, government and university leaders to highlight 天美传媒 growing role in aviation workforce development in Maine.

Maine鈥檚 first and only Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 147-certified aviation maintenance technician program, 天美传媒 AMTS educates students to become licensed aircraft mechanics. The five-semester, 56-credit program combines flexible online learning with weekend, in-person labs. Students prepare for the FAA Airframe & Powerplant certificate through applied skill-building by working on real aircraft systems as well as using advanced simulation and virtual reality technologies. Each cohort admits up to 25 students, with the first group on track to graduate in May 2026.

The program was developed in direct response to Maine employers鈥� need for skilled aviation maintenance professionals. Until recently, Maine was one of only a few states without an AMTS, forcing aviation employers to recruit talent from out of state. 天美传媒 program helps develop and retain Maine鈥檚 workforce, strengthen the and create new career opportunities in aircraft maintenance, a high demand-field offering strong earning potential and long-term growth.

鈥淭his program represents the very best of 天美传媒 mission,鈥� said Jenifer Cushman, president of the 天美传媒. 鈥淲e are creating access to opportunity, driving innovation and building the programs that Maine and our nation need most. 天美传媒 aviation programs show what is possible when education, technology and workforce development come together to prepare students for the future.鈥�

天美传媒 AMTS was made possible through state and federal investments supported by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, the Maine Technology Institute and Congressionally Directed Spending secured by U.S. Sens. Susan Collins, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King. With their support, UMA turned a shared vision into reality, creating new opportunities in aviation education and helping strengthen Maine鈥檚 aviation workforce.

鈥淲e are preparing students for meaningful, high-demand careers and helping Maine鈥檚 aviation employers meet critical workforce needs,鈥� said Maria Wilcox, program manager of 天美传媒 Aviation Maintenance Technician School. 鈥淥ur students are learning on real equipment, using cutting-edge tools and gaining the skills to be hired and contribute to Maine鈥檚 workforce immediately after graduation.鈥�

天美传媒 aviation offerings extend beyond maintenance to include a Bachelor of Science in Aviation and a degree in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems. Together, these programs form an integrated aviation education pathway that serves students across Maine and beyond. Looking ahead, UMA and the University of Maine System are exploring plans to expand aviation education, including a satellite aviation maintenance school in Limestone and future opportunities in air traffic control training.

鈥淭he University of Maine System is proud to support 天美传媒 growing Aviation Maintenance Technician School, which is opening new doors for Maine students to launch rewarding, high-demand careers while strengthening our state鈥檚 aviation sector,鈥� said Chancellor Dannel Malloy. 鈥淭his is exactly the kind of innovative, workforce-focused education and training employers can expect our public universities to develop and deliver to power Mainers鈥� upward mobility and our economy.鈥�

天美传媒 aviation programs create clear pathways for students to gain in-demand skills and strengthen Maine鈥檚 workforce. Through studies in aircraft maintenance, piloting and uncrewed systems, UMA offers hands-on learning, flexible options and strong industry partnerships that prepare students for rewarding careers and a bright future in the field.

The 天美传媒 (UMA) is proud to announce that Greg Jolda, coordinator of 天美传媒 Aviation program and longtime instructor, has received the Federal Aviation Administration鈥檚 Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, the highest honor the FAA bestows on a pilot.

Presented by John Bell of the FAA Safety Team out of the Portland Flight Standards District Office, the award recognizes airmen who have demonstrated professionalism, skill and safety for at least 50 years.

Jolda鈥檚 aviation career began in 1970 with the U.S. Air Force, where he logged more than 3,000 flight hours before retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1991. He joined UMA in 2014 as coordinator of the Aviation program, where his leadership has helped strengthen Maine鈥檚 aviation workforce through accessible, career-focused education.

Greg鈥檚 passion for aviation and his commitment to teaching have strengthened 天美传媒 role in preparing Maine鈥檚 aviation workforce.

Jolda maintains Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot credentials and continues to train students in 天美传媒 fleet, including the Cirrus SR20 acquired in 2022. He has logged more than 5,000 total flight hours and 2,000 hours of instruction.

Colleagues at Maine Instrument Flight, 天美传媒 aviation partner, praised his impact. 鈥淕reg brings an energy that you don鈥檛 see very often,鈥� said Chad Morris. 鈥淗e loves to teach, and his vision has advanced our program in ways that benefit every student.鈥�

As UMA celebrates its 60th anniversary, Greg’s leadership reflects 天美传媒 commitment to student success, academic excellence and community partnerships that support workforce-relevant education that empowers students and supports communities across Maine.鈥�

Bruno Mendes De Freitas takes you on his inspiring journey from UMA aviation student to MIF flight instructor, sharing his deep appreciation for Maine in this beautifully crafted self-produced video.

UMA’s own Parker White, a freshman aviation student, does it again! He’s the reigning 2024 eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series champion, and he just dominated the eNASCAR College iRacing Series spring season opener, leading all 31 laps to take first place. Congratulations, Parker!

Read about his win .

Read Parker’s story here.

Parker White is a full-time freshman aviation student at the 天美传媒 (UMA). When he鈥檚 not engrossed in his studies, you鈥檒l find him behind the wheel of his racing simulator, honing the skills that led him to clinch his first eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series Championship. His ability to manage both demanding schedules highlights his commitment and time-management skills, and his success is a testament to his dedication and hard work.

Though sim races are run virtually, often from the comfort of one鈥檚 own home, eNASCAR is a global competition that has been operating for over 15 years. Racers from around the world compete in several qualifying rounds, aiming to land in the top 40 for a chance to race before a live audience for $100,000 in first-place prize money, bragging rights, and team contract offers. 

His victory in the final race of the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series was nothing short of exhilarating. In the highly anticipated finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Parker demonstrated exceptional racing prowess. The tension peaked in the final laps, where Parker鈥檚 strategic moves and unwavering focus drove him to victory. You can . His triumph was celebrated not only by his fans and family, but also by racing legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., who presented him with the championship trophy, the Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Cup.

For Parker, iRacing has been more than just a fun hobby; he enjoys reciprocal benefits between racing and flying. 鈥淢y driving and flying skills have helped with each other鈥攖he attention to detail going through flight checklists and race prep, as well as the precision needed to bank a corner with a car or land a plane safely. I鈥檝e really honed my focus,鈥� says Parker. 鈥淎lso, communication and working together as a team鈥攚e have to work together as a team every single race.鈥�

Parker鈥檚 championship win has had a significant impact, both personally and within the sim racing community. For Parker, this victory represents the culmination of countless hours of practice, dedication, and skill refinement. It also solidifies his reputation as one of the top sim racers in the world. 

While he could easily make a career out of iRacing, Parker is aiming for the sky, 鈥淚鈥檝e loved airplanes for as long as he can remember.鈥� Parker will be funding his aviation education with a portion of his prize money. “I chose UMA because it is close to home and has a very good aviation program. When looking at colleges, UMA made the most sense to me.鈥� After attaining a bachelor of science degree in Aviation at UMA, Parker plans to become a pilot for a major commercial airline. 

Parker White鈥檚 journey is far from over and his future looks incredibly bright. Balancing these two demanding pursuits, Parker embodies dedication and passion, inspiring his peers and fellow racers. Whether it’s in the skies or on the virtual track, Parker is set to make a lasting impact.

Casey Raymond is, by all accounts, a remarkable young woman. At just 20 years old, she has earned her commercial pilot certificate and is working toward becoming a flight instructor. She is involved in several aviation clubs and organizations, employed at Mac Air in Portland, Maine, and is working toward a bachelor of applied science degree in Aviation at the 天美传媒 (UMA). Casey鈥檚 love of all things aviation knows no bounds.

Early Interest, Early Setback

At the age of 15, Casey knew she was going to be a pilot, although it wasn鈥檛 her first career choice. 鈥淲hen I was younger, I wanted to be an aerospace engineer,鈥� she said. Casey had an aptitude for math and was enchanted by the idea of space flight. However, when her high school guidance counselor suggested she attend a piloting workshop sponsored by UMA, Casey jumped at the opportunity. After her discovery flight in January of 2020, her path became clear. Casey enrolled in flight school.

Casey鈥檚 fledgling aspirations hit some bumpy air at the outset. She began her aviation studies, working hard to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for that first big milestone鈥攕olo flight. In March of 2020, she went for the required Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flight medical test and was faced with a setback. They discovered Casey had type-1 diabetes and the FAA requires one year of disease management data before granting flight approval. Though the setback was disappointing, Casey is ultimately grateful, 鈥渇lying saved my life,鈥� she said. This discovery coincided with the beginning of COVID-19 when access to medical care was severely inhibited. but Casey was given a plan and did what was needed to get her blood sugar under control and managed.

Casey persevered through the setback. Knowing she would eventually attend UMA, she earned college credits through AP high school classes and early college courses. In addition, through a partnership between UMA and the flight school Casey attended鈥擬aine Instrument Flight based in Augusta, Maine鈥攕he was able to apply her flight training as credits toward her university degree.

Casey Takes Off

At long last, after a year of diabetes management, countless calls to the FAA, paperwork, and more than a little patience, Casey made her first solo flight in May of 2021. 鈥淢y favorite thing about flying is the moment when you initially lift off the ground. That moment of separation; there’s no way to describe it until the first time you do it solo.鈥� Casey has been unstoppable ever since. She earned her private pilot certificate in February of 2022, her instrument rating in June of 2023, and her commercial pilot certificate in July of 2024. But Casey isn鈥檛 done yet. She is working toward becoming a flight instructor and began her studies at UMA Aviation Maintenance Technician School in pursuit of a bachelor鈥檚 degree.  

Though Casey is the only female student in her cohort, she is in good company. Maria Wilcox, Aviation Maintenance Program Coordinator and instructor at UMA, has worked in aviation maintenance for over eight years and serves as a role model for Casey. Despite the challenges she has faced, Maria finds fulfillment in her work. 鈥淚 love what I do and can鈥檛 imagine doing anything else,鈥� Maria says. 鈥淚t isn鈥檛 easy being a woman in this field, but if there is anyone who can succeed at it, it鈥檚 Casey. She has a lot of drive and interest, and she fits in well with others.鈥� Casey鈥檚 enthusiasm, curiosity and drive buoy her above stereotypes as she focuses on the work and the joy of doing something she loves.

When Casey completes the five-semester certificate program she can immediately sit for the exams required to become an FAA-certified Airframe & Powerplant technician/mechanic, allowing her to work on a wide range of aircraft, including general aviation planes, airliners and helicopters. 

Giving Back

Casey鈥檚 studies are important to her, but there is more to her life than just school. She is involved in leadership roles in a number of aviation clubs and organizations in her area. She was a summer counselor in Bangor at ACE Camp鈥擜viation Careers Education鈥攁 nation-wide program co-sponsored by the FAA and the U.S. Military. Geared toward high schoolers seeking aviation careers, the camp offers classes, hands-on projects, leadership training and, of course, flying. She never got to attend as a highschooler but loved being a counselor and getting to see the behind-the-scenes planning and sharing her love of flying with the campers.

Casey volunteers at the Owls Head Transportation Museum in Rockland, Maine, home to numerous functioning antique planes that require regular maintenance, and sometimes her smaller stature also comes in handy. 鈥淭he planes were not ergonomically designed,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hey often call on me to get in a cockpit or to reach behind an engine.鈥� Unfortunately, Casey hasn鈥檛 had much opportunity to fly the antiques. 鈥淢ost are tailwheels. I鈥檝e got my endorsement, but the museum requires 200 hours of tailwheel to fly their planes. I鈥檝e got about three so far.鈥�

Currently serving as the public relations officer of the UMA Aeronautical Society, Casey builds community within the aviation program through support and advocacy. 鈥淲e鈥檒l be at a fly-in and she will know everyone there. She has more connections in the aviation world than anyone I know.鈥� said Cole Martin, president of the UMA Aeronautical Society. 鈥淐asey makes sure each student gets connected with an experienced pilot who shares the student鈥檚 interest and can explain career options,鈥� he noted. 鈥淔lying is more than airlines and private jets. There鈥檚 mail flights, cropdusting, rescue and humanitarian work,鈥� remarked Cole, 鈥淥ur main things are showing people what鈥檚 possible and spreading the love of aviation. Casey is a huge part of that.鈥� 

Another strength Casey brings to the club is organization. Cole remarked, 鈥渟he organized an entire fly-in here in Augusta with pilots from all over Maine, coordinating everything with the airport and pilots. Everyone knew where to park; she arranged for food. They all got to see the school. It was great!鈥�

Her newest role, however, is also her biggest. Casey was recently appointed chairwoman of the Katahdin Wings Chapter of the New England section of The Ninety-Nines, Inc., International Organization of Women Pilots. Founded by 99 women pilots, Amelia Earhart was the group鈥檚 first president in 1931. As chairwoman, this young aviator not only organizes and runs meetings for the approximately 30 members in her chapter but also facilitates section meetings which includes securing meeting space, hotel rooms and meals for the attendees. 鈥淣ext year our chapter is hosting the international conference,鈥� Casey beamed. She is clearly up for the challenge.

Finding Community

Though Casey does not fit the stereotypes for either a pilot or a mechanic, she feels at home in the aviation community. 鈥淎viation is a small, interwoven community and I find everyone to be really supportive and protective,鈥� said Casey, who often brings her parents along to fly-ins. 鈥淧eople will sometimes walk up to my dad and start talking about planes. He鈥檚 a nurse and has never been into this stuff,鈥� Casey mused. 鈥淲hen he tells them that I鈥檓 the pilot, they may be a little surprised and embarrassed, but just shift the conversation over to me.鈥�

Charting a Course for the Future

For folks interested in aviation, Casey offers this advice: 鈥淒on鈥檛 think it鈥檚 not an option. It will take a lot of time and a lot of money, but everyone in the aviation community has been through the exact same thing, and they want to see you succeed. They have genuine enjoyment and passion for flying and want to share it, and there are many organizations that offer scholarships and support. I鈥檓 not going to pretend it鈥檚 easy, but there are a lot of people to help you.鈥� Casey herself is one of those people. 鈥淲hat inspires me most about Casey is she never takes no as an answer,” says her mother Carrie Raymond. 鈥淚nstead, she says ‘I can do this,鈥� and 鈥榣et me show you how.鈥�” 

Casey has high hopes for her future after graduating from UMA. Her goal is to own her own plane and fly humanitarian missions. 鈥淔lights are a lifeline for remote populations. It’s a specific type of work, going into their very small airstrips in challenging conditions. I鈥檓 studying maintenance because if something goes wrong on a mission, I will need to repair my own plane,鈥� she wisely notes. Exactly what form her humanitarian service will take is still up in the air. 鈥淭here are so many options. I want to help smaller communities thrive by flying in food and supplies or flying their goods out to more lucrative markets where they can fetch better prices,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut I鈥檇 also like to do work flying for Doctors Without Borders or aerial firefighting.鈥� Whatever course she chooses, if her future is anything like her present, Casey will likely do it all and do it with excellence. Friend and flight instructor Jonathan Ward says, 鈥淪ometimes you meet people in life that you know are going to change the world. Casey is one of them.鈥�