1st Female MN Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee

Cheri began her aviation journey at age 17, inspired by an Aerospace Science class. She completed her flight training during her senior year and earned her Private Pilot license before attending Minnesota State University, Mankato (MNSU) for an Aviation degree. After graduating, she served as a flight instructor and became Assistant Chief Flight Instructor. She flew for Great Lakes Aviation and corporate jets for North Star Aviation before joining Northwest Airlines (now Delta Air Lines), where she advanced to Captain of the Airbus A320 and took on roles such as Pilot Recruiter and Ambassador. 

Cheri also co-founded the annual WING (Women Inspiring our Next Generation) Flight, providing female high school students with an inspiring flight experience to explore aviation careers. In addition to her work at Delta, she has been an Adjunct Professor at MNSU, advising various aviation student organizations and helping to build partnerships, such as with Delta’s Propel University program.

For over 30 years, Cheri has volunteered with the MN Aviation Career Education (ACE) Camp, aimed at introducing high school students to aviation careers. She is a founding member of two Women in Aviation chapters in Minnesota and contributes to numerous aviation-related organizations, including serving on boards, planning events, and giving talks. In April 2024, Cheri was inducted into the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant impact on the state's aviation community and her dedication to mentoring and fostering opportunities for young people in the field.