Transparency
By Tre Keys, FNRC Public Information Officer
Chico, CA — For 15-year-old Soheil, the sky has always been the limit. His passion for aviation began at a young age, sparked by a visit to the Chico Air Museum with his family. What began as a fascination with airplanes and their mechanics soon became a serious pursuit, culminating in his first flight lesson and a deep dive into aviation training.
“I just found the passion for flying and all that,” Soheil recalled. “The mechanics, the planes themselves — it was amazing to get to go inside them and experience what it’s like.”
His aviation journey was deeply influenced by the experiences of Vietnam War veterans at the museum, who shared their personal stories about flying military helicopters. One Air Force veteran’s words would leave a lasting impression on Soheil, inspiring him to take his passion further.
“He was an Air Force recruiter, and he told me about his experience with flying,” Soheil said. “It inspired me to get involved, so I told my mom, and she got me training to fly.”
Far Northern Regional Center’s Self-Determination Program has played a significant role in supporting Soheil’s journey. The program has been instrumental in helping him access specialized services, including flight a simulator and aviation-related resources, that align with his goals.
Self-Determination is very person-centered and Soheil has more say over what is important to him. Soheil and his family have more control over how Soheil’s budget is used to select the services and supports he receives.
“It’s been a huge help,” Soheil’s mother, Najia Said declared. “Through the Self-Determination Program, we were able to find the resources that Soheil needed to continue his aviation training and pursue his passion. It’s about providing him with the right support to make his dreams come true.”
Soheil’s initial experiences with flight training included time in a flight simulator, which provided him with invaluable skills before his first lesson in the cockpit. “I learned how to control the aircraft, how to pull up, push down, and even land. When I went for my first lesson, they were impressed because I already knew how to do everything,” he said.
Though it started as a hobby, Soheil’s commitment to aviation grew as he took on more responsibilities, including becoming a docent at the Chico Air Museum. “I learned a lot about the history of aircraft, especially from veterans who had firsthand experience with the planes they worked on during the Vietnam War,” he explained.
Soheil’s flight lessons soon transitioned from simulators to real aircraft. His first lesson involved learning not only how to fly but also how to inspect an airplane properly. “We checked everything, from the engine to the fuel, to make sure everything was in working order before taking off,” he said.
The thrill of flying was never lost on Soheil, who remains committed to perfecting his skills in the sky. His dream is to eventually pursue a career in military aviation, with aspirations of becoming part of the Red Bull Air Race team or flying aerobatics in a stunt plane.
“I want to go to places like Houston and experience flying in places where planes can actually land on private airstrips,” he said, describing an aviation community he hopes to be part of one day.
Najia has watched Soheil grow into a young adult with a deep sense of responsibility and dedication. “He’s always been calm and meticulous, even from a young age,” she said. “I think that’s why he’s able to focus so well on things like aviation, where precision is key.”
Najia’s approach to parenting has been one of support and encouragement, recognizing her son’s unique talents. “My advice to other parents is to listen to your kids and support their passions,” she shared. “If they have dreams, don’t put up obstacles, just help them move forward.”
Soheil continues to thrive in his pursuit of aviation, with an eye on the future and the skies above. With the continued support of his family and programs like the Self-Determination Program, he is well on his way to soaring to new heights.
If you are interested in FNRC’s Self Determination Program and would like more information, check out our website at https://www.farnorthernrc.org/clients/self-determination/.