From HR to the Skies: Carole Hopson's Journey Inspired by Bessie Coleman
Carole Hopson, a 60-year-old United Airlines captain, shares her journey from various careers to becoming a pilot and author, inspired by Bessie Coleman, the first Black female aviator.
Carole Hopson's path to becoming a pilot at 36 was anything but conventional. With a diverse background spanning journalism and corporate roles, Hopson's journey to the cockpit was fueled by a lifelong dream and the inspiring legacy of Bessie Coleman, the first Black woman to earn a pilot's license.
Born in 1892, Coleman faced significant obstacles in pursuing her aviation dreams. Unable to find a flight school in the United States willing to admit a Black woman, she learned French and traveled to France to obtain her license. This determination resonated deeply with Hopson, who saw parallels in her own journey.
"In the back of my mind, I always knew this is what I wanted to do. I just had to find my own way to get to flight school, kind of like Bessie."
Hopson's transition to aviation came at a cost, as she took a significant pay cut to pursue her passion. However, the sacrifice proved worthwhile, leading to a fulfilling career as a United Airlines captain and published author.
Inspired by Coleman's remarkable life, Hopson penned "A Pair of Wings," a novel that brings the pioneering aviator's story to life. The book, initially self-published in 2021, has now been picked up by Henry Holt and released to a wider audience.
To authentically portray Coleman's experiences, Hopson went to great lengths, including learning stunt flying in a biplane and replicating Coleman's nine-mile walks to flight school in France. These efforts allowed Hopson to vividly depict the challenges and triumphs of Coleman's journey.
Coleman's impact extends far beyond her flying career. She refused to perform at segregated events and dreamed of establishing a flight school for African Americans. Her legacy inspired future generations of Black aviators, including the Tuskegee Airmen.
Hopson's dedication to sharing Coleman's story has not only resulted in a compelling novel but also led to the creation of the Jet Black Foundation, a nonprofit supporting Black female pilots. As Hopson continues to soar in her aviation career, she remains committed to honoring Coleman's memory and inspiring future generations of diverse aviators.
