INDIAN TRAIL, N.C. — An Indian Trail teen is taking life to new heights while building his future with aviation.
At just 17, Ryan Garner has made history by obtaining his private pilot's license.
“I have always loved it since I was a kid," Garner told WCNC Charlotte's Myles Harris about aviation. Garner has now made history by becoming the youngest and first African-American to get their private pilot license at Goose Creek Aiport.
“It's a little adrenaline rush coming into the plane," Garner added. Ryan is a rising senior attending West Cabarrus High School, an aviation/aerospace engineering program school.
His mother, Melissa Dixon is proud of the success her son has achieved.
“He's the footprint ... he is actually the footprint to future generations to come and say it's possible," Dixon said.
The teenager is already setting his eyes on his next destination.
“I want to take it to the majors and go to the airlines," Garner said.
Garner may be able to enjoy that success as well.
“I trust his ability," Dixon said. "I trust what he's capable actually of doing. So yes, I am willing to go up and get that experience and actually just see life on a different level."
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.