Bernadette Hart’s Journey from the Air National Guard to Aviation

For Bernadette Hart, a career in aviation began with an unexpected opportunity during her senior year of high school.

After joining the Air National Guard, Hart found herself working closely with KC-135 aircraft, an experience that sparked a lasting passion for aviation and inspired her to pursue a future in the industry.

“I was inspired to pursue a career in aviation during my senior year of high school after I joined the Air National Guard,” Hart said. “Working closely with KC-135s allowed me to see just how much I loved aviation and made me want to be involved in the industry long-term.”

Since arriving at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Hart has become actively involved in organizations that help build community among aviation students. She is one of the founding members of UNO’s chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Aviators, a national student organization launching at UNO this year, where she serves as the event coordinator. She is also involved with Women in Aviation, connecting with fellow students who share a passion for the industry.

Among her favorite memories at UNO Aviation are the relationships she has built along the way. One experience that stands out is growing closer to her boyfriend while both were students in the Aviation Institute. After spending a school year taking classes together, he proposed at the beginning of the summer.

As she continues her aviation education, Hart is exploring where her career path may lead. While she is still determining exactly what role she wants to pursue within the industry, she credits UNO Aviation with providing the connections, experiences, and skills needed to succeed.

For now, Hart plans to continue serving in the Air National Guard while finishing school. She also looks forward to receiving a scholarship from the Nebraska Business Aviation Association (NEBAA), which will help support her continued flight training as she prepares to schedule her next checkride.

Looking toward the future, Hart hopes to remain involved in aviation, continue flying, and follow opportunities wherever they may lead. One of her long-term goals is to share her love of aviation with her future family and one day fly with her children.

When asked what advice she would give to younger aviation students, Hart emphasizes that there is no single path to success in flight training.

“Everyone has a different path for flight training,” she said. “Know yourself and decide what is best for you because it may be different from someone else.”

And for those who may not know her well, Hart shared one fun fact: she can cross one eye.

Through her service, leadership, and commitment to aviation, Hart continues to make an impact both in the classroom and beyond while building a future in the industry she loves.