Donna Peters
I began my flying career in 1975, when the uniform of the day was a mini skirt and we were still called "Stewardess". My first airline was Trans International Airlines. It was an international charter airline that traveled all over the world. It wasn't long before I realized I had "flying in my blood" and would be doing this for a long time to come. What followed for the next several years were other charter airlines. Just when I would get some seniority the company would go out of business and I would have to start all over again at the bottom of the list with another airline. After I put 6 companies "out of business" (I was beginning to think I was jinxed) I was hired by Tower Air. I soon became a Purser on a Boeing 747. In addition to our domestic and international scheduled service Tower had a large contract for the United States Military. The most rewarding flights of my career were flying the troops during the Gulf War. It was especially wonderful flying them home. I decorated the entire aircraft with American Flags and Yellow Ribbons, and we all tried to make the trip home as memorable as possible. It took 14 years, but the jinx finally won out. Tower Air also went out of business. At that point I was reluctant to start all over again with another commercial airline. I had heard a little about Corporate Aviation and thought I would investigate further. I came across Susan's Corporate Flight Attendant Training class. I thought .... I've been flying for almost 20 years, what can this woman possibly teach me? I decided to "bite the bullet" and take Susan's class anyway. Well ... all I can say is ... "You CAN teach an old gal new tricks." Corporate aviation is VERY different form the commercial airlines. I believe Susan's class, and Corporate Specific Emergency Training, not only helped prepare me for the transition, but I believe it gave me a distinct advantage in finding a position as a corporate flight attendant. I registered with one of the largest Aircraft Management companies and began flying as a Contract Flight Attendant. I flew contract for about a year and a half and then was hired full time for a company out of New Jersey. Eventually I became the Lead Flight Attendant. I enjoyed several years working for a wonderful owner and a premier flight department. Unfortunately, as is common in the industry, the owner decided to sell the aircraft, and I was out of a job once again. I have been back flying contract for almost a year now. In addition, I am looking forward to the new adventure of working with Susan and her Corporate Flight Attendant Training Company. My goal is to teach people who wish to become Corporate Flight Attendants, the right way to break into the industry, and do their jobs in a professional and effective manner. I want them to have the necessary training that allows for better opportunities, and thus increases their chances of getting a position in Business Aviation.