Soar to Success

Mission

I created Soar to Success with one goal in mind — to empower students to dream big, plan smart, and take action early. What started as a small effort to inspire girls in aviation has grown into a full educational initiative that reaches students of all ages, helping them build confidence, set goals, and prepare for the future.

From introducing elementary students to new career possibilities, to teaching middle schoolers how to build confidence, to guiding high schoolers through college readiness and scholarship planning — my mission is to help students of all backgrounds see what’s possible and equip them with the tools to get there.

About Andie

About Me

My name is Andie Pfannkuch, and I’m a 20-year-old commercial pilot from Charlotte, North Carolina. I’m currently finishing my Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight at Auburn University, where I’ll graduate in December 2025 — just 2.5 years after I started.

That early graduation was made possible through dual enrollment courses I began in high school, which allowed me to save time, money, and discover my career path early. That experience sparked my passion for helping other students understand how small, intentional steps can create life-changing opportunities.

My Journey

My aviation journey began in eighth grade when I took my very first discovery flight. The moment the plane lifted off, I knew this was where I belonged. As I began my training in high school, I quickly realized I was one of the few girls at my airport, and that realization ignited a passion in me to change the narrative.

I started small, visiting classrooms and meeting with Girl Scout troops to share my experiences as a girl in a male-dominated field. At that time, I had no idea it would evolve into something bigger; I just felt a strong desire to ensure that other girls wouldn't miss out on their calling.

What began as one small act of outreach has grown into Soar to Success, a platform that has reached over 1,500 students! Additionally, I launched an international interview series featuring women in STEM, which has connected with audiences in 12 countries. It's been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to keep expanding our efforts to inspire future generations of girls in aviation and beyond!

Accolades

Along the way, I’ve had the privilege to lead, serve, and represent my community through roles that have strengthened both my purpose and my confidence.

Some of my accomplishments include:

President of the Auburn Ninety-Nines, an all-female organization of pilots
Outreach Chair for War Eagle Chapter of Women in Aviation, introducing hundreds of girls to aviation
Recruiter for Auburn’s College of Liberal Arts and Ambassador for the School of Aviation
Intern with Delta Air Lines
Organizer of a multi-state toy drive, collecting thousands of toys for families in need
2024 Miss Auburn Teen USA and Top 5 finalist at Miss Alabama Teen USA
2022 USA National Miss South Carolina
Recipient of over $100,000 in scholarships for academics, leadership, and service
Certified Private Pilot, Instrument Rated Pilot, and Commercial Pilot – Multi and Single Engine

Purpose

I didn’t achieve all of these things because I’m extraordinary. I achieved them by taking consistent, small steps, building confidence over time, and staying true to my passion. My mission now is to help others do the same.

Through Soar to Success, I want every student to understand that success isn’t reserved for a select few. With the right mindset, a clear plan, and the courage to start early, anyone can reach their goals.

I truly believe that age doesn’t define impact, confidence is built, not born, and passion creates purpose. No matter where you’re starting from, your future flight is ready for takeoff.

“I didn’t wait for the right moment — I built it. And now, I want to help others build theirs.” - Andie Pfannkuch

Join the Mission

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