In celebration of Aviation History Month in November, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Aviation highlights student Boston Wolfe and his bold pursuit in the legacy of flight. 

From a young age, Wolfe felt drawn to the sky. While some prefer entertainment during a flight, Wolfe was content looking out the window, captivated by the clouds and the experience of flying. That early fascination with aviation never faded. Instead, it fueled a clear career goal. 

“I used to ask my parents if we could get to the airport early just so I could watch the planes take off and land,” said Wolfe, from Southern Ohio. 

Long before ever stepping into a training aircraft, Wolfe logged over 100 hours on Microsoft Flight Simulator, practicing many of the maneuvers required for the private pilot certificate. That self-driven preparation built the foundation for his success at EKU—home to Kentucky’s only four-year flight program. 

Wolfe’s first real experience in the cockpit came through an introductory flight lesson near his hometown. A high school project later connected him with a United Airlines pilot, who invited him on another flight in his personal plane, allowing Wolfe to take the controls and land the airplane himself. Those early experiences confirmed what he had always known: flying was more than a dream, it was his future. 

When it came time to choose a college, Wolfe explored several aviation universities, but his visit to EKU stood out. An aviation staff member spent time walking him through the program, answering questions and coordinating a visit to the flight training center at the Central Kentucky Regional Airport. 

A sophomore at EKU, Wolfe has earned his private pilot certificate, instrument rating and commercial pilot certificate, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA and working part-time on campus. Kevin Moberly, operations manager of EKU Aviation, explained, “This means he went from a student pilot last fall to a certified commercial pilot in 13 months. Most students take three years to earn commercial pilot certification. We’re quite impressed with Boston!” 

Wolfe credits his success in the cockpit not only to hard work and preparation, but also to the resources and support of his instructors and peers at EKU, where he found community. He is especially grateful for his flight instructor, Ryan Sheely, who consistently goes the extra mile to help students progress. 

“He’s motivated and would always work to make time available for extra flights,” Wolfe said. Wolfe also credits his private ground instructor, Greg Wilson, for laying a strong foundation that helped him succeed as he advanced in his training. 

Wolfe advises incoming EKU Aviation students to have drive, plan ahead, learn from each flight, stay organized and take initiative. He believes EKU provides the tools for students to succeed, but students have to want it for themselves. Wolfe also encourages students to use simulators that are available. When weather conditions keep him grounded, Wolfe hones his skills by using simulators to stay sharp and keep progressing. Resources like the virtual reality simulator lab help students prepare before they ever set foot in an aircraft.

Wolfe’s journey embodies the very spirit of EKU Aviation, a dynamic blend of driven students, passionate mentors and a program purposefully designed to launch the next generation of aviators. 

By Christina Rannells