El Paso County, Colo. – Former Army aviator Brian McGlone is turning his 26‑year military career into a community asset for local youth. After retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 5 Master Aviator, McGlone accepted the role of Aviation Instructor at Air Academy High School in District 20, where he created a brand‑new aviation track.
From Blackhawks to gliders
McGlone’s résumé includes flying Blackhawks, Chinooks, and serving with the elite 160th Night Stalkers. He says the new program lets him “continue my service to the people of this nation by teaching the next generation of professional aviators.” The curriculum, now serving 97 students, covers aviation basics, instrumentation, simulated flights and real‑world glider flights.
Hands‑on learning at Meadow Lake Airport
Students meet at Meadow Lake Airport, where they learn to identify ailerons, read instrument panels and run pre‑flight checklists before being tethered to a tow plane. Once the glider reaches speed, it lifts off in tandem with the tow plane, then releases to glide on lift alone. Instructors, all former military pilots, guide the juniors through stall recovery drills and controlled landings, giving them confidence under pressure.
“The landings are scary. It seems like you’re coming in hot!” junior Westly McNaughton said after a 20‑minute flight. “I’m hooked! I would go up again, but I have to wait ’til next semester.”
Community partnership
The program partners with the Soaring Eagles Foundation through the Falcon Aerolab, ensuring that each glider instructor brings real‑world experience to the classroom. McGlone hopes the track shows students that “anyone can do it,” regardless of background.
Why it matters for families
For parents in El Paso County, the aviation track offers a constructive, values‑based extracurricular option that aligns with traditional family goals of discipline, skill‑building and service. The hands‑on experience also reinforces STEM education, a priority for many local families seeking pathways to high‑paying careers.
Looking ahead
McGlone plans to expand the program, adding more gliders and increasing enrollment as interest grows. The initiative reflects a broader trend of veterans bringing leadership and technical expertise to local schools, strengthening community ties and preparing youth for future challenges.
Stay updated on this and other local stories by downloading the KRDO13 app.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
