It took me a while, but I finally landed a full-time pilot. Captain Nia Gilliam isn't just any pilot, either!
As a black woman pilot, Gilliam already beat the odds. She has also attained one of the highest ranks. Her story is a fascinating one. She put it in writing in her recently-released book Cleared for Takeoff, but she shared a bit of it with me in our Talking Travel interview for Global Traveler.
Gilliam was nearby when 9/11 happened. Not only did she have to experience watching it develop, she had to get back into the pilot's seat and continue her job. I can't imagine the flood of emotions that would cause. Gilliam gave me a glimpse into that day, as we both choked back a bit of tears.
Her story is one of determination, passion and focus. The interview was a lot of fun and very informative, but her book is so much more detailed and fascinating.
Cleared fror Takeoff is her first book, but probably not her last. As her son is a pilot now, Gilliam plans on using that as the main topic for her next book. I already put in my request for another interview when that happens.
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