Angie Griffin: From Educator to Aviation Trailblazer

Angie Griffin’s journey from educator to accomplished aviator and television personality is a testament to passion and resilience. Her early career focused on counseling and education, teaching diverse student populations and eventually leading schools as a principal and superintendent. However, a lifelong fascination with aviation ultimately led her to pursue her dream of flying.

After witnessing helicopters outside her office window while working at a university, Angie embarked on obtaining her FAA certifications. She earned ratings in fixed-wing aircraft and then pursued her true passion: helicopters. She became a certified commercial helicopter pilot and flight instructor, eventually establishing her own business, Dragonfly Copters, in Georgia.

Angie Griffin at the West Virginia State Fair.

Through Dragonfly Copters, Angie introduced countless individuals to the thrill of flight. Her commercial work encompassed a variety of high-profile clients, including Sports Illustrated, the producers of the hit television show “The Walking Dead,” real estate companies, and professional photographers. Her assignments took her as far as Costa Rica, and included unique tasks like flying over blueberry fields at night to prevent crops from freezing. Despite the diverse nature of her work, Angie’s true passion remained in educational flights, sharing her love of aviation with aspiring pilots.

Angie’s commitment to aviation education extended beyond her business. She joined the Board of Directors of FlyQuest, a non-profit organization dedicated to introducing underserved students to aviation careers. Her dedication to outreach and education was recognized with features in Aviation for Women magazine and the prestigious Whirly-Girls Memorial Scholarship.

Angie Griffin researching gyrocopters for Texas A&M University.

Further demonstrating her commitment to the field, Angie earned a doctorate researching the role of resilience in the success of high-performing aviators. She is an active member of numerous aviation organizations, including the Experimental Aircraft Association, Helicopter Association, Inc., Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Women in Aviation, The Ninety-Nines, and the Whirly-Girls. Currently, she serves as an assistant professor of aviation science and program coordinator at Texas A&M University – Central Texas. Angie Griffin’s story is an inspiring example of pursuing one’s passions and making a significant contribution to the aviation community.