Upper Limit Aviation (ULA) is proud to announce that our student, Ryan DeJong is the recipient of  The Doug Doty Vertical Flight Foundation’s Accelerating Possibilities Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to pilots that have demonstrated their commitment and dedication in becoming professional pilots. The Doug Doty Vertical Flight Foundation is an organization that was founded by Jesika Doty in 2010 after the untimely passing of her husband and flight instructor, in a training accident. “The foundation is dedicated to helping helicopter pilots pursue their dream of flying – keeping Doug’s dream alive through them.” The Doug Doty Vertical Flight Foundation Website

Ryan grew up in Coalville, Utah and graduated from Salt Lake Community College with an Associate of Science Degree in Aviation Technology/Rotorwing. In 2005, Ryan witnessed a medical evacuation performed by an Intermountain Life Flight helicopter, and decided that he wanted to pursue helicopter flight training. Five years later, he accomplished this dream by enrolling in the Professional Pilot Program at Upper Limit Aviation. “Congratulations! We are all proud of Ryan and all of our great students at Upper Limit Aviation. This achievement is proof of Ryan’s hard work and perseverance.” Jason Davis, Chief Flight Instructor Upper Limit Aviation

Ryan enjoys flying in the Utah mountain ranges, and taking pictures to share with his family and friends. He is excited to begin his career as a helicopter pilot, and the opportunity to travel around the country. His goal is to pursue a flight career in Alaska and fly contract utility jobs. Ryan would also like the opportunity to pilot a Sikorsky S-76 helicopter after completing his flight training at Upper Limit Aviation. “Ryan approaches flying as a challenge, but with great respect. He continually reminds me to enjoy flying.”
Matt Tanzer CFI, Ryan’s Flight Instructor

Ryan is the first pilot in his family, and is thankful for their continual support. He would like to personally thank his wife, Josie and their two daughters.  “I’m just an average guy, but if you want to chase your dreams, you can. I did!”

For more information or to make a donation to The Doug Doty Vertical Flight Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, please  visit www.verticalflight.org.

For more information about Upper Limit Aviation, please visit our website www.upperlimitaviation.edu or e-mail us at: info@upperlimitaviation.edu.

The Doug Doty Vertical Flight Foundation and Upper Limit Aviation can both be found on
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