May
2026
Jillian Kepich
Airline: GoJet Airlines
Crew Position: Captain
Aircraft: CRJ-550/700
Domicile: EWR
Where did you do your flight training?
Jillian:
I completed my private pilot training at a small Part 61 flight school at Monmouth Airport in New Jersey while working part-time as a flight attendant with Republic Airways.
During the pandemic, I took a one-year leave of absence and moved to Florida to focus on training full-time. I completed my Instrument through CFII at Epic Flight Academyin New Smyrna Beach.
What airplanes have you flown during your career?
Jillian:
I’ve flown a variety of aircraft throughout my time as a student, instructor, and now as an airline pilot. My experience includes the Cessna 150, 152, 172, and 182, as well as the Piper Seminole and Piper Navajo. Currently, I fly the Bombardier CRJ550/700 as a Captain for GoJet Airlines.
How did you get interested in aviation?
Jillian:
To be honest, flying wasn’t originally part of my plan. I didn’t grow up around aviation. Instead, I was a competitive, world-traveling surfer and lived in Costa Rica for 5 years while finishing college online with a Spanish degree from Arizona State University. Travel and adventure were a huge part of my life early on.
After graduating, I became a flight attendant with Republic Airways, which gave me the opportunity to fly all over and gain a global perspective on aviation. Being in that environment every day sparked my curiosity about what was happening up front on the flight deck. I decided to take a discovery flight, and everything changed. I fell in love with flying during that flight, and from that moment on, I committed fully to becoming a pilot.
Looking back, my background in international travel and surfing really shaped who I am today. It built adaptability, confidence, and a love for adventure that naturally carried over into aviation and continues to drive me in my career.
Have you had/have any mentors throughout the years?
Jillian:
Yes, I’ve been fortunate to have several strong mentors throughout my aviation journey!!!
Hector Marrero, Captain at Republic Airways, has been my biggest supporter and cheerleader. During times of doubt, he always reminded me that I got this! Over the last 10 years our friendship has grown into more than mentorship—I consider him family and a big brother. Robert Beavis, retired Boeing 747 Captain from United Airlines, has had a lasting impact. I had the privilege of flying a Piper Navajo with Bob from Monmouth Airport to Block Island, Rhode Island and all over the Northeast while I was flight instructing. Learning from his experience gave me invaluable perspective and advice that I continue to use today. Vicki Ross, retired Boeing 737 Captain from Southwest Airlines and ISA+21 mentor. I joined the ISA+21 mentorship program in 2024 initially seeking a female mentor for guidance in this industry and was paired with Vicki. I found not only that, but also a lifelong mentor and friend, someone I greatly respect and look up to.
Finally, so many of the Captains, especially all the Check Airmen at GoJet Airlines have played a significant role as mentors. In addition, the instructors I trained with at Epic Flight Academy, along with the many friends and colleagues I’ve met throughout aviation.
Jillian:
My goal is to continue progressing in my career and eventually transition to a major airline. I would love to become a Captain on the Boeing 737 and have the opportunity to fly to Costa Rica, where I used to live.
Jillian:
One of the biggest challenges I faced occurred in October 2022, when my initial First Officer class at another airline was canceled just 10 days before it was scheduled to begin. It was then postponed for two months and ultimately canceled again right before Christmas. At the time, I did not have any other job offers, so I applied everywhere. The first airline I received a conditional job offer from was GoJet Airlines, and that is where I ultimately went. However, I had to wait six months for a class date. During that time, I had no stable living situation and very limited financial resources, which made it an incredibly challenging period. That experience taught me a great deal about resilience, perseverance, and maintaining a positive mindset during uncertain times. It also showed me who truly supported me and were in my corner. Although it felt like a major setback at the time, I was able to push through, grow from the experience, and ultimately achieve my goal of becoming an airline pilot. Today, I’m grateful to be flying for GoJet Airlines, based out of the same airport where I was once a flight attendant.
What has ISA+21 meant to you in your aviation journey?
Jillian:
ISA+21 has been an incredibly supportive and empowering community throughout my aviation journey. Being surrounded by driven women who uplift, encourage, and inspire one another has made a meaningful impact on me. It has also shown me how powerful it is to have a strong network of women in aviation. This career can feel overwhelming at times, especially when navigating your path, but being connected to others who truly understand the journey makes a huge difference. ISA+21 has reminded me that I’m not alone and continues to inspire me to keep growing while supporting others along the way.
Jillian:
Go for it! Even if it feels intimidating at first. You don’t need to have everything figured out to get started. Take that first step, stay committed, and surround yourself with people who support your goals. There is absolutely a place for you in this industry, and you are more capable than you think.
What has been your favorite flight or aviation memory?
Jillian:
One of my favorite aviation memories has been the full-circle transition from being a flight attendant to now sitting in the left seat as a Captain. It’s been incredibly meaningful and something I’m very proud of.
When I first started at GoJet Airlines, there was only one female Captain and just five female pilots total based out of Newark. Upgrading at this stage in my career felt intimidating, especially as a female in a male-dominated base, and it wasn’t something I originally saw for myself. I’m so glad I made the leap to the left seat. Flying as a Captain has been incredibly rewarding, a continuous learning experience, and a lot of fun. As of today, I’m one of two female Captains out of more than ninety pilots based in Newark at my airline, and both of us are former flight attendants.
One of the biggest benefits of being an ISA+21 member is the sense of community. It connects you with women who have walked this path before you and are willing to share advice, support, and encouragement. The mentorship program I participated in through ISA+21 in 2024 had a huge impact on my growth as a female pilot. Through that experience, I was connected with my mentor, Vicki, who has been an incredible source of guidance and support as I continue to navigate my career.
Jillian:
I currently volunteer as a mentor with Project Aviator and also mentor through ISA+21. Being able to share my experience and help guide the next generation of pilots is incredibly rewarding, and it’s my way of giving back to the aviation community that has supported me along the way.