At just 17 years old, Gabriel Carothers of Albuquerque, New Mexico, has made history by becoming the youngest Black pilot in his state after successfully completing his private pilot check ride. While the achievement earned widespread attention, Gabriel says his focus was never on making history—it was simply on doing what he loves most: flying.

Gabriel’s passion for aviation began when he was just a child. Inspired by his father, Alex Carothers, a retired U.S. Air Force pilot, he took his first flight at the age of five. By eight, he was already taking the controls of an airplane during an Experimental Aircraft Association Young Eagles event, and at just 14 years old, he built his own flight simulator by teaching himself the design and programming process.

Only 10 days after turning 17, Gabriel earned his private pilot certificate, reaching a milestone that made him one of New Mexico’s youngest licensed pilots. Today, he is an active member of the General Lloyd “Fig” Newton chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, where he helps introduce young people and adults to the fundamentals of aviation through STEM education programs.

Gabriel hopes his accomplishment will inspire other young people to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles. Looking ahead, he plans to learn to fly vintage aircraft, perform in airshows, and follow in his father’s footsteps by joining the U.S. Air Force. His remarkable journey proves that with passion, determination, and hard work, even the biggest dreams can take flight.