I grew up in Seoul, Republic of Korea and Manila, Philippines. My parents were missionaries working in missionary radio. I credit the joy and wonder of those trans-Pacific flights as part of my interest in aviation. I enjoyed building airplane models and learning about airplanes through my childhood. When it came time to choose a college and career, aviation topped my list. It was during my search for colleges with aviation programs that I learned of LeTourneau University. After a campus visit, I was determined to attend LeTourneau and set off for an airline career. After graduating LeTourneau, I started working for my alma matter as a flight instructor. A couple years later, God made it clear to me that teaching was what He created me to do and LeTourneau was where I was to do it. That was over 32 years ago.
I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior when I was four years old. Life as a college student provided the opportunity and challenge to ground my faith. There were many professors who mentored and encouraged me in my walk. Some of those professors became colleagues and life-long friends. I started participating with them in the mentoring and encouraging of students. God blesses me with opportunities to invest in the spiritual and professional growth of students. What a privilege to see where God leads the students and what He does in and through them. I empathize with the Apostle John’s statement “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth” (3 John 4).
FCAP LeTourneau
It all started in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. LeTourneau University’s table in the International Association of Missionary Aviation tent was next to a newcomer – FCAP. Conversations led to ideas. LeTourneau University (https://www.letu.edu/about/history.html) was founded by R.G. LeTourneau, a Christian businessman. The University’s history and vision is to train Christian professionals who see the workplace as mission. The mission fit was obvious.
At the time, FCAP did not have any student chapters so I inquired as to if FCAP would be interested in doing so. The FCAP representative responded, “That would be a discussion with our Director, Jake Joseph.” I knew a Jake Joseph who had attended LeTourneau. It was indeed that Jake Joseph! What an awesome God we serve.
FCAP LeTourneau was formed to encourage students who are interested in a career in the airline industry. We meet several times during the semester for Bible study and prayer. Of course, there are times for food and fellowship as well. About 10 students and instructors gathered for Bible study meetings this past fall. The group currently meets twice each week, and the students involved are excited, and we have a good core who regularly attend the meetings.
The vision is to equip the students to be a light in the aviation workplace and establish a network that will excite them to keep the light shining. We seek to make connections with FCAP and individuals who will serve as spiritual mentors to the students as they journey from college into the aviation industry.
