With more than three decades in aviation, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Lowell “Skip” Bailey has built a career defined by leadership, global impact, and a passion for mentorship. Now serving as Assistant Director of Flight Training at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), Bailey continues to shape the future of aviation—this time from the ground up.
Bailey’s aviation journey began at Indiana University, where he joined Air Force ROTC. Upon graduating and earning his commission as a second lieutenant, he entered pilot training, launching what would become a 25-year career in the United States Air Force. Over the course of his service, Bailey flew a range of high-profile aircraft, including the EC-135, KC-10, and the E-4B “Nightwatch,” often referred to as the nation’s airborne command post.
His time in the Air Force was marked by both operational excellence and unique opportunities. While flying the E-4B, Bailey transported five U.S. Secretaries of Defense—Donald Rumsfeld, Leon Panetta, Ashton Carter, Chuck Hagel, and Robert Gates—on missions around the world. He also deployed five times, including a year-long tour in Afghanistan, and traveled extensively, visiting 35 countries across every continent except Antarctica.
Beyond flying, Bailey took on key leadership roles. He served as Air Show Director for the 2004 and 2005 Offutt Air Force Base Air Shows, coordinating large-scale events that showcased aviation to the public and strengthened community engagement. He retired from active duty in 2016 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.
That same year, Bailey transitioned into academia, joining UNO as a Flight Training Coordinator. His role has since evolved into Assistant Director of Flight Training, where he oversees key aspects of student development and program operations. His passion for teaching, however, began earlier in his career during his time as ROTC Commander at Kent State University, where he discovered a love for instructing college students.
“I thought it would be a great way to combine two things I really enjoyed—flying and teaching,” Bailey said of his decision to join UNO.
At UNO, Bailey has also made a significant impact on the university’s Flight Team. After assisting with coaching beginning in 2019, he became head coach in 2023. Under his leadership, the team has continued to excel, and Bailey himself was recognized as Coach of the Year at SAFECON, a prestigious national aviation competition.
What Bailey values most about his current role is witnessing student growth. From their first flights to launching careers in the aviation industry, he takes pride in guiding students through each stage of their journey.
“One of the things I really enjoy about teaching is watching students go through our program, start their career, and then progress through the aviation industry,” he said.
Outside of aviation, Bailey enjoys staying active and exploring the world with his wife. Whether biking, golfing, or traveling, his passion for adventure continues well beyond the cockpit.
From global missions at 30,000 feet to mentoring students on the ground, Skip Bailey’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to aviation—and to the people who will carry it forward.
