Huntley, Ill., native named University of North Dakota’s Certified Flight Instructor of the Month

GRAND FORKS, N.D. — Sarah Baier, a University of North Dakota graduate and certified flight instructor from Huntley, Ill., was named UND’s Certified Flight Instructor of the Month for March.

A certified flight instructor is a pilot who has been trained in how to teach people how to fly. Flight instructors take students up in an aircraft and do much of their teaching in the cockpit.

As part of the Certified Flight Instructor of the Month selection process, students of the CFIs are invited to submit nominations. The statements that students submitted to describe Baier include, “Sarah has been an incredible instructor throughout my aviation journey. From Day One, her patience and passion for aviation have been truly inspiring.

“She has a unique ability to break down complex concepts in a way that makes them easy to understand, and her attention to detail ensures that every maneuver is performed with precision before moving on,” the student continued.

Wrote another student, “What sets Sarah apart is not only her expertise but her unwavering support. She creates an environment where I feel both challenged and supported, which has allowed me to grow in both skill and confidence as a pilot.

“She celebrates my progress and pushes me to be better. … She is exactly the kind of instructor I hope to become one day, and I can’t recommend her enough for CFI of the Month.”

A 2021 graduate of Huntley High School, Baier graduated from UND in August with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and a major in Commercial Aviation. She holds Certified Flight Instructor, Certified Flight Instrument Instructor and Multi Engine Instructor ratings.

“Throughout my time at UND, I was fortunate to experience many opportunities for learning and growth in my leadership skills,” Baier says. “As I continue to gain flight experience as a flight instructor, I will always use the leadership skills that UND has taught me. I am thankful for the wise words of my friends, teachers and mentors that has shaped me into the person and pilot I am today.

“Once my time as a flight instructor is complete, I plan to pursue my career as a first officer at a regional airline.”

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MEDIA CONTACT: Courtney Olson, Marketing, Events, & Project Coordinator, Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences.
EMAIL: courtney.e.olson@UND.edu. PHONE: 701-777-4989.