99s Fly!

Rising Star Scholarship Winner

May 17, 2026

Congratulations to Sara K. Baker, winner of the Rising Star scholarship!

Sarah is a Portland, Oregon-based aviator and Sr. Manager - Data Analytics and Governance at Jeppesen ForeFlight. She recently earned her CFI ticket in April and has plans to earn a tailwheel endorsement and CFII rating this year. She also holds an AGI and an Instrument Rating.

Sara came to aviation later than some — after over a decade in corporate aviation data roles, including six years at American Airlines, some time at Southwest Airlines, and a stint in VVIP aircraft manufacturing — having long assumed it was out of reach. After corporate burnout, she committed fully, earning her certificates and ratings in three years. Her ambitions don't stop at CFI: she is pursuing tailwheel and backcountry flying and envisions a long-term path through aerobatics, seaplane operations, and eventually Part 135 flying.

An active member of the Columbia Cascades 99s, Women in Aviation International — where she completed the 2024 Harvard Emerging Leaders Program — Sara is also involved with the Washington Pilots Association, previously held an appointed seat on the City of Vancouver Aviation Advisory Committee, and most recently joined the local IAC Chapter - the Oregonauts.