For many student pilots, the path into aviation begins with a lifelong dream. For senior University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute student Nick Hinkel, that passion took shape a little later—but quickly turned into a clear and determined career path.
Hinkel admits he wasn’t always set on aviation. During his senior year of high school, he found himself deciding between engineering and becoming a pilot. That uncertainty changed after a discovery flight in Sioux City. The experience gave him clarity, showing him that a career in aviation offered something far more exciting than a traditional desk job. From that moment on, his direction was set.
After graduating high school, Hinkel wasted no time getting started. He earned his private pilot certificate the summer before arriving at UNO and continued progressing through his training at the Aviation Institute. During his time at UNO, he completed his CFI, CFII, and MEI ratings, building both experience and confidence in the cockpit.
Now a Certified Flight Instructor and CFII at Revv Aviation, Hinkel spends his days helping the next generation of pilots achieve their goals. For him, instructing is about more than logging hours—it’s about mentorship. He values the relationships he builds with his students and takes pride in guiding them through their own aviation journeys.
His dedication and hard work have already opened major doors. Hinkel was selected for the prestigious Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program, a significant step toward a future flying for Southwest Airlines. He describes the opportunity as both an honor and an exciting glimpse into what lies ahead.
In addition, Hinkel has received a job offer from Envoy Air, marking his first official step into the airline industry. Once he reaches 1,000 hours of instruction time, he plans to transition to Envoy, with hopes of relocating to Phoenix or Dallas. From there, he remains open to future opportunities, including potentially joining Southwest or exploring other paths within the industry.
Reflecting on his journey, Hinkel emphasizes the importance of staying focused while also trusting your own path. As he puts it, “Set goals and strive to achieve them. Also don’t compare your path or training with anyone else—embrace your own journey.”
As he enters the final stretch of his senior year, Hinkel stands as a strong example of what determination, adaptability, and passion can accomplish—proving that sometimes, all it takes is one flight to change everything.
