Student Spotlight: Victoria Dannelly

Victoria Dannelly’s passion for aviation began at a young age through experiences that made flying feel both exciting and familiar. Whether she was traveling by air to visit family or attending the annual Genoa fly-in breakfast, she found herself drawn to the aviation environment and the sense of community surrounding it. Over time, those early experiences inspired her to explore the many career opportunities available within the industry.

At UNO, Dannelly has made the most of her college experience by becoming actively involved in several aviation organizations. She participates in the Flight Team, Women in Aviation, Aviation Explorers, the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA), and the Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA). Through these organizations, she has been able to connect with other aviation students and professionals while expanding her understanding of the industry beyond the classroom.

One of Dannelly’s favorite experiences so far was touring Lincoln Airport with Women in Aviation. The visit gave her a behind-the-scenes look at airport operations and provided an opportunity to speak with airport representatives about its continued development.

“It was a really cool experience to see their operations and talk to them about how they are growing as an airport,” Dannelly said.

Experiences like the Lincoln Airport tour have helped Dannelly learn more about the many professionals and departments required to keep the aviation industry moving. They have also allowed her to explore career paths that match her interests in organization, coordination, and airport operations.

After graduation, Dannelly plans to pursue a position in crew scheduling or aircraft scheduling. Both areas play an important role in ensuring that flight operations run safely and efficiently. As she gains experience, she hopes to earn her aircraft dispatcher certificate and eventually transition into a dispatch position.

Dannelly is also interested in the possibility of operating a small airport in the future. Although her career could take several different directions, she looks forward to continuing to learn about the operational side of aviation and finding the path that is the best fit for her.

As she works toward her goals, Dannelly understands how easy it can be for aviation students to compare their progress with the accomplishments of those around them. Her advice to other students is to recognize their own growth and remain confident in how far they have come.

“Aviation is such a competitive field that we can get wrapped up in how others are doing compared to ourselves,” Dannelly said. “Take a step back and look at everything you have accomplished and how far you have come, and be proud of yourself.”

Outside of aviation, Dannelly enjoys archery, a sport she has participated in for approximately 12 years. Her long-term dedication to the activity reflects the patience and focus she also brings to her aviation journey. She encourages anyone interested in the sport to give it a try.

Through her campus involvement, professional interests, and willingness to explore different areas of the industry, Dannelly is building a strong foundation for a future in aviation. Whether her path leads to scheduling, dispatch, or airport operations, she is excited to continue growing and discovering where her passion will take her.