Tristan Curtis Pickett is an ambitious senior at St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, VA, renowned for his leadership and diverse talents.

Born on August 18, 2006, Tristan’s multifaceted interests span from aviation, where he is a licensed private pilot, to athletics, swimming on his school’s team. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community service are evident in his role as Director of Programs & Fundraising at the Hannah Pet Society, where he has volunteered over 300 hours.

Tristan’s passion for aviation was sparked by his mother, a pilot and veterinarian, inspiring him to pursue flying at a young age. This early exposure has shaped his career aspirations, aiming to innovate in aviation and business. Academically adept and a natural leader, Tristan Curtis Pickett also dedicates time to educating and engaging his peers in philanthropy and environmental conservation. As he looks to the future, Tristan plans to integrate his passions into a career that is both impactful and fulfilling, continuing to make a positive difference in every community he touches.

Tristan, how did you first become interested in aviation?

My interest in aviation started very early, thanks to my family’s influence, particularly my mom’s passion for flying. I was always fascinated by planes and the concept of flying. My curiosity about how things work in the sky and my mom’s stories from the cockpit really fueled my desire to become a pilot myself. By the time I was old enough, I was determined to get my private pilot’s license.

What do you find most rewarding about being a private pilot?

The sense of freedom and responsibility is incredibly rewarding. There’s something uniquely exhilarating about being up in the sky, navigating and controlling an aircraft. It’s not just about the physical act of flying but also the planning and precision required. Each flight is a new adventure and a learning experience.

As a young entrepreneur, what challenges have you faced and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing school, flying, and entrepreneurial activities. Time management and prioritizing have been crucial. I’ve learned to focus on what’s most important and to delegate tasks when possible. It’s about finding a rhythm and structure that allows me to be productive without burning out.

Can you tell us about your role and experiences with the Hannah Pet Society?

At Hannah Pet Society, I served as the Director of Programs & Fundraising, which involved organizing events and developing initiatives to support animal welfare. The role required a lot of creativity and adaptability. Seeing our projects come to fruition and knowing they were making a difference in the community was incredibly fulfilling.

What does leadership mean to you, especially in the context of your sports teams at school?

To me, leadership is about setting an example and inspiring others to achieve their best. On the swim and tennis teams, it’s about encouraging teamwork, maintaining morale, and focusing on our collective and individual goals. It’s important to be someone the team can rely on, both in practice and competition.

How do you approach setting goals for yourself?

I start by identifying what I want to achieve in the short and long term, then break these down into actionable steps. It’s about setting realistic, measurable goals and regularly reviewing my progress. I also remain flexible to adapt my plans as needed because new opportunities and challenges can change how I approach my goals.

What strategies do you use to manage stress and maintain mental health?

I find that staying organized helps a lot with stress management. I also make it a priority to maintain a healthy balance between work and relaxation. Physical activities, especially swimming, help me clear my mind. Additionally, I believe in the power of talking things out, whether with friends, family, or mentors.

What impact do you hope to make in the future through your career and personal interests?

I hope to blend my interests in aviation and business to innovate in those sectors. My goal is to make a tangible impact by improving efficiency and safety in aviation and expanding access to flying. I also want to continue my philanthropic efforts, perhaps expanding into environmental conservation.

How has traveling influenced your worldview?

Traveling has opened my eyes to different cultures and perspectives and has made me more aware of global issues. It’s taught me the value of adaptability and empathy. These experiences have shaped my ambitions by showing me how diverse the world is and how interconnected we are.

What advice would you give to other young people who aspire to pursue their passions like you have?

My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you and share your values. Lastly, be resilient and persistent; the path to following your passions isn’t always straightforward, but it’s worth every challenge if it leads you to doing what you love.

Read more:
An In-Depth Q&A with Tristan Curtis Pickett