# @af_academy on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/CVTgN3MtuTd
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/8951347-af-academy-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/thumbnails/30d274db0c.jpg
- **Posted:** 2021-10-21T20:51:50.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** U.S. Air Force Academy (@af_academy) — https://gondola.cc/af_academy

## Caption

Motivating cadets to be passionate about aviation is at the core of our Airmanship programs. Much of that motivation comes from some of the best instructors, whose devotion to military aviation is woven through their coaching. 

Maj Raeanna Rutter is a perfect example of one of those instructors. 
“My favorite part of my job is flying with cadets, and passing on what I wish I would have known when I started pilot training,” Rutter said. 

Originally from Longmont, CO, Rutter is a 2008 graduate of #YourAcademy and spent her first few assignments flying the C-130J, doing combat search and rescue. Currently, she is an evaluator pilot and assistant director of operations for the Flying Team. 
“When I was a kid, my class studied Amelia Earhart and flying sounded really cool. After that my dad took me out to a local airshow, and I was hooked!” 
Another way she shares her passion for flying is helping the Early Path to Wings Program take off at the Prep School @usafaprepofficial. Rutter organized the original selection process and tracked cadet candidates from application to private pilot certificate. 
“I also mentored each cadet candidate on other Academy Airmanship opportunities and Air Force military aviation programs.” 

The Early Path to Wings Program was created to heighten airmanship awareness, which increases the possibility of cadets seeking a life-long career in aviation. Providing this jumpstart helps prepare and introduce the preppies to airmanship concepts, ground school, and powered flight skills. 

Rutter brings a wealth of experience and unending passion for flying to our various Airmanship programs. When cadets ask her about being a pilot she only has one thing to say – “It’s not always easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” 

#USAFAairmanship #letsfly @usafaflyingteam

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 3,447
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- **Comments:** 8

## Tags

usafaairmanship, letsfly, youracademy

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