Barstow Alum Discusses Aviation Career

Over lunch, Gardner shared some of the specifics of his career including pilot training requirements, equipment systems and procedures, and a general overview of a typical day as a pilot for a commercial airline. He also gave some insight into the founding and growth of DGPilot, the travel lifestyle store in Minneapolis which he owns. Gardner credits his Barstow education with giving him a good foundation of study skills, which have benefited him throughout his career.

Gardner developed an interest in aviation at a young age. He spent time at the Charles B. Wheeler airport in downtown Kansas City on weekends during high school, cleaning planes and meeting people in the industry. After graduating from Barstow in 2003, Gardner studied at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and began his journey as a pilot with an internship at Delta Airlines.

According to Gardner, attitude and passion go a long way when working towards any goal. He encourages students who are interested in aviation to get as much early exposure to the industry as possible, and to keep a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.