Grant Gross-Rhode Finds Purpose in Aviation Through Family, Service and Mentorship

For Grant Gross-Rhode, aviation has always felt personal. His interest in flying began at a young age, inspired by his dad’s career in aviation and service in the Air Force. Growing up, Grant remembers seeing photos of his dad flying, touring aircraft and getting the chance to fly simulators with him. Those early experiences helped spark a passion that would eventually lead him to the University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute.

Since arriving at UNO, Grant has continued to build his own path in aviation while staying involved across campus. He is a member of Delta Chi Fraternity, where he serves on the philanthropy board, and he also plays on the UNO club soccer team. In addition, he has been involved with Alpha Eta Rho, serving in a treasurer role as the aviation-focused organization continues to develop on campus.

One of Grant’s favorite experiences at UNO Aviation has been the opportunity to help introduce younger students to the world of flying. During an outreach event, he helped teach high school students who were interested in aviation how to fly in the simulators. For Grant, the experience felt especially meaningful because it reminded him of his own first moments in a simulator.

“I remember how excited I was the first time I got to fly,” Grant said. “I’m glad that I was able to give someone else that experience, even if it was just a simulator.”

That passion for sharing aviation with others reflects the same encouragement that helped shape Grant’s own journey. He knows firsthand how powerful it can be for young students to see aviation as something exciting and possible, especially when they have someone willing to guide them through the first steps.

Looking ahead, Grant hopes to follow in his dad’s footsteps by serving in the military. After graduation, he plans to pursue a flying slot with an Air National Guard unit, with the goal of flying for either the Air Force or the Air National Guard. He is also interested in eventually working in commercial aviation, whether that be with the airlines, charter operations or another professional flying career.

As he continues working toward those goals, Grant encourages younger aviation students to take advantage of the people and resources around them. His advice is simple: make connections, ask questions and stay humble.

“Make connections with people who have been around aviation and don’t be afraid to ask them for help or advice,” Grant said. “Always be humble and open to advice.”

Outside of aviation, Grant has a few fun facts that make his story even more unique. UNO is his ninth school, he was once afraid of flying, he enjoys golfing and he considers himself a fairly good wake surfer. Even with a journey that has taken him through many schools, interests and experiences, Grant has found a strong sense of direction through aviation, and he continues to use that passion to inspire the next generation of future pilots.