Two American Airlines Flight Attendants will Become Pilot

DALLAS- Two American Airlines (AA) flight attendants are charting a new course from cabin to cockpit as recipients of the prestigious Elise Eberwein American Airlines Cadet Academy Pilot Scholarship.

Kele Lowery from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Courtney Rumbaugh from Miami (MIA) have each received $50,000 toward flight training, continuing the legacy of former Executive Vice President Elise Eberwein by supporting team members with financial need in pursuing pilot careers.

Photo: American Airlines

American Flight Attendants Becoming Pilots

The transition from flight attendant to pilot represents a significant career evolution that leverages unique operational insights gained from years of in-flight experience.

Both scholarship recipients have developed exceptional understanding of aviation operations through their cabin crew roles, providing them valuable perspectives on teamwork, communication, and passenger management that will enhance their capabilities as future pilots.

Nathan Gatten, American’s Executive Vice President of American Eagle, Corporate Real Estate and Government Affairs, who oversees the Cadet Academy, emphasized the recipients’ qualifications:

Kele Lowery | Photo: American Airlines

Courtney Rumbaugh | Photo: American Airlines

Kele Lowery’s Path

Kele Lowery’s aviation journey began in the small town of Blaine, Tennessee, in southern Appalachia, where opportunities in professional aviation were limited. Her determination to pursue a flying career represents more than personal ambition—it symbolizes barrier-breaking achievement for underrepresented communities.

“I want to inspire little girls in small towns where there’s not much professional opportunity,” Lowery stated. “I’m proof that no matter where you come from, you can accomplish your wildest dreams with bravery and tenacity.”

Her passion for flight operations developed organically during her service as a flight attendant, where she consistently volunteered for flight deck observation opportunities during breaks. These experiences transformed initial curiosity into a dedicated career focus, confirming her desire to transition to piloting.

Courtney Rumbaugh’s Approach

Courtney Rumbaugh brings a methodical approach to her aviation career development. Growing up near Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, she developed early aerospace interests and began flight training before financial constraints forced postponement.

Her decision to become a flight attendant represented a strategic immersion in aviation operations while learning from experienced pilots. This dual-perspective approach has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of both cabin and cockpit requirements.

“I take enormous pride in knowing that when I get to the pilot’s seat, I’ll have a deep understanding of what my cabin crew is dealing with,” Rumbaugh explained. “This experience will make me a better communicator and leader.”

The Elise Eberwein American Airlines Cadet Academy Pilot Scholarship demonstrates American Airlines’ commitment to internal talent development and career progression pathways. The 10-year initiative awards two scholarships annually, with the next application cycle opening in Q4 2025.

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