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As the iconic Goodyear Blimp marks its 100th anniversary, �鶹��ѡ’s connection to aviation history is soaring to new heights. Three alumni of the university’s aeronautics program are among the aviators steering this American icon through its centennial celebration.

June 3 marks 100 years since the inaugural flight of Goodyear’s first branded blimp “Pilgrim,” which got its name during a christening at the �鶹��ѡ airport in 1925. In honor of this historic achievement, the Goodyear Blimp will fly to more than 100 cities across North America and Europe throughout 2025, with �鶹��ѡalumni playing pivotal roles in this celebratory tour.

Michael Dougherty, a 2003 graduate, is now chief pilot for Goodyear Airship Operations. His journey from student to leading one of America’s most recognizable aircraft exemplifies the university's commitment to producing world-class aviators. 

“During my tenure at Kent State, I gained many career-advancing skills and connections that have really carried me through my aviation journey,” Dougherty told �鶹��ѡToday. “Not the least of these skills being a tenacious drive, passion for the career and work ethic that keeps me focused forward even during rough cycles in our industry.”

Joining Dougherty in the cockpit are fellow �鶹��ѡgraduates Adam Basaran, a 2003 graduate, who serves as assistant chief pilot, and Jessica Miladinovich, a 2023 graduate, one of the newest additions to the Goodyear pilot team. Their presence at the controls of this historic aircraft during its centennial year speaks volumes about the caliber of training provided by Kent State’s College of Aeronautics and Engineering.

The Goodyear Blimp is a marketing icon, appearing everywhere from the Olympics to the first Super Bowl, not to mention songs, movies, TV shows and even aiding the U.S. military effort during WWII. For �鶹��ѡalumni, being part of this storied legacy represents more than just a career milestone — it’s a testament to their alma mater’s exceptional preparation.

“�鶹��ѡdid a great job of preparing me for a real pilot job, and I wouldn't have been able to do it without the skills that I learned throughout my time there,” said Miladinovich. “There are certain things in aviation that will never leave. Things like weather, regulations, general aircraft systems and even the soft skills of being professional are things that I learned at �鶹��ѡthat have been absolutely essential.”

The transition from conventional aircraft to the unique challenges of airship piloting showcases the adaptability that �鶹��ѡinstills in its graduates. “Flying the blimp is quite different from flying fixed-wing airplanes,” Miladinovich noted. “The differences can go from the amount of crew involved in us flying all the way to how the ship handles itself.”

Dougherty’s career trajectory illustrates the power of the relationships fostered within Kent State’s aviation community. 

“My connections with the other Goodyear pilots and my knowledge from �鶹��ѡled me to flying with the blimp team from time-to-time and building a career-advancing connection that paid off in 2007 when I was hired by Goodyear as a full-time pilot with the Airship Operations team!”

The consistency of excellence among �鶹��ѡaviation graduates has not gone unnoticed within the industry. Basaran observed, “Amongst the different pilots that I meet, when I run into a pilot who went through the �鶹��ѡflight program, often, there’s a high degree of consistency in how they develop as a professional pilot; [they are] somebody who is not just operating the machine but can work with the customers and the public. That has been really consistent over time.”

The recent Aeronautics and Engineering Expo at �鶹��ѡAirport represented a powerful full-circle moment. For Miladinovich, the opportunity to share her passion with current students held special significance. 

“Being able to share the love and joy I have for the blimp with the current students at �鶹��ѡis an opportunity I'm really grateful for.”

Drawing from his extensive experience, Dougherty offers guidance that reflects the adaptability and openness that �鶹��ѡcultivates.

“Be willing and ready to make every connection you can, keep your focus on success, and don’t be afraid to try avenues you had never considered when you started. If you really have a passion for aviation, there’s a pathway for everyone!”

Miladinovich’s endorsement of the program speaks volumes: “I would 100% recommend the �鶹��ѡaviation program.”

Learn more about the College of Aeronautics and Engineering.