Tuskegee Airmen studying maps in Tuskegee, Ala., 1942. Afro Newspaper / Gado / Getty Images
The mission of Fly Compton Foundation is to provide opportunities for underprivileged youth in the Compton community to explore and pursue their passion for aviation. Through mentorship, educational programs, and access to resources, we aim to empower these young individuals to dream big and soar high in their future careers. Our goal is to inspire, educate, and uplift the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals, creating a positive impact on their lives and the community as a whole.
Fly Compton Foundation was founded in 2020 by a group of African American professional pilots and aircraft mechanics that all had a common goal—to give back to and invest in the youth of our community. Concurrently, we are contributing to the diversification of an industry that has long been exclusive to individuals of a higher economic status.
Each Founder of Fly Compton has overcome obstacles and broken through barriers to become professionals in the aviation industry. It is not only our responsibility, it is also our duty to remove those barriers for the next generation of aviators. Here at Fly Compton our motto is “Lift as you Climb”.
DEMETRIUS D. HARRIS
President
JONATHAN STRICKLAND
Vice President
MICHAEL SHERRILL
Treasurer
CARLA NORMAN
Secretary
Khalilah Ali
Camelia Barkley
Desobry Bowens
Donovan Burns
Kellee Edwards
Precht Galloway
Christa June
Philip June
Jelani Kelly
Tony Marshall
Paul Rubio