From Aspiration to Aviation: Nicholas Cooper’s Journey with BCIT and Pacific Flying Club

The Start of the Journey

Before committing to their program, Nicholas had been eyeing BCIT and PFC for years. A pivotal moment came five years ago when he experienced a FAM flight with PFC. That flight ignited his passion for aviation and cemented his decision to apply. After getting accepted, he began his training in May 2023.

The structured and comprehensive nature of the BCIT-PFC program was a key factor in his decision. Unlike private training, the program’s clear path made navigating the complexities of pilot training easier. “For some people, having that structure is vital,” he explained. “It’s an all-in-one package that’s easy to follow.”

Training Highlights

Nicholas’s training journey began with earning his Private Pilot License (PPL). Once completed, he moved on to his Night Rating during the fall and winter months. He progressed to time-building and cross-country flights from there, culminating in his Commercial Pilot License (CPL) flight tests and written exams.

He then tackled the Multi-engine Rating and Instrument Rating, completing both the written and flight tests. “It’s a lot,” he admitted, “but we got it all done.”

One memorable experience during his training was the Night Island Cross Country flight. This exercise involved flying from Boundary Bay to various locations like Sechelt, Nanaimo, and Victoria. “Being over the water at night was surreal,” he recalled. “You’re so used to seeing everything, but it’s a completely different perspective at night, especially over water. It was a great memory with my instructor.”

Goals and Aspirations

With his training nearing completion, Nicholas is now focused on the next step: finding a company to begin his professional career. He has his sights set on companies like CanWest, SkyCare, and others that offer charter, cargo, and medevac services opportunities. His ultimate goal is to progress within a company, eventually flying multi-engine turbine aircraft for medevac missions.

“I want to start on something smaller, build up my hours, and move up within the same company,” he explained. This long-term vision aligns with his desire for stability and growth in his career.

The Magic of Flying

For Nicholas, the magic of flying lies in its ability to make everything else disappear. “Most pilots say, as soon as you get up in the air, everything else kind of disappears,” he said. “You’re focused on what you’re doing. It’s beautiful. It’s unique.”

His love for aviation dates back to childhood, when he would sit in the back of his dad’s pickup truck watching planes take off and land. “Since then, it’s been in the back of my mind that this could be something I could do,” he shared. Despite the hurdles, he decided to “bite the bullet,” and he’s never looked back.

Advice for Aspiring Pilots

Nicholas emphasizes the importance of preparation and passion for anyone considering an aviation career. “Have everything laid out beforehand,” he advised. “Once you’re in the program, you want to focus on your training without worrying about finances or other distractions.”

He also highlights the value of collaboration and support among peers. “Study with your friends,” he recommended. “It’s beneficial to quiz each other and bounce ideas off one another. That was a big part of my success.”

The BCIT and PFC Advantage

Nicholas highly praises the BCIT-PFC program, praising its consistency, safety management system, and supportive instructors. “It’s a comfortable environment,” he said. If there’s ever an issue, you know who to talk to, and they’re always helpful.”

The program offers aspiring pilots a structured and reliable path to achieving their goals. Nicholas’s experience is a shining example of what’s possible with dedication, passion, and the proper training.