Kim KC Campbell's journey to flying the A-10 "Warthog"

"...That moment made me realize that I wanted to dedicate my life to something bigger than myself, something meaningful and impactful." 

1. Can you share your aviation experience so far?

I first got a taste of flying when I joined the Civil Air Patrol at the age of 12 and took my first flight in a small airplane. For my 16th birthday, I asked for flying lessons, and soon after, I soloed in a Cessna 152. This initial experience solidified my love for aviation and eventually led me to Air Force pilot training after graduating from the United States Air Force Academy. There, I trained in the T-37 and T-38 before being selected to fly the mighty A-10 Warthog. Over my career, I've logged 1,800 hours in the A-10, including more than 100 combat missions. I concluded my Air Force career at the Air Force Academy, where I had the privilege of teaching cadets to fly in the T-53.

2. What motivated you to join the Air Force?

My inspiration to join the Air Force began when I was 10 years old and witnessed the Space Shuttle Challenger launch. As many remember, it was a tragic event in which all the astronauts on board lost their lives. I didn't fully understand why I felt such a strong connection to them, but I knew they had died pursuing something they deeply believed in. 

That moment made me realize that I wanted to dedicate my life to something bigger than myself, something meaningful and impactful. I was drawn to the idea of serving and being part of something that demanded a level of commitment and passion so profound that one might even risk their life for it. That tragic shuttle launch ignited my desire to pursue the exhilaration and freedom of flight and led me to decide at an early age that I would join the Air Force and become a fighter pilot.

3. Can you describe your initial flight training experience?

The path to becoming a pilot starts with Air Force pilot training, a rigorous 52-week program that teaches the fundamentals of flying and prepares pilots for more advanced training. Success in the program is measured through performance on training flights and evaluations at the end of each phase. I knew that I needed to excel to get the fighter aircraft I wanted. However, I struggled with airsickness during my first few flights. It was a tough experience, but I was determined not to let it stop me. Over time, my body adapted, and I overcame the motion sickness, allowing me to focus on becoming the best pilot I could be.

4. How did you develop your leadership skills as a senior military leader?

Many of my foundational leadership skills were developed while leading A-10s in training and in combat. Through those experiences, I learned the importance of making critical decisions under stress, providing mutual support in challenging situations, and prioritizing under pressure. I also came to value the power of debriefing and learning from each other after missions.

As I progressed in my career, I realized that many of the lessons I learned in the cockpit applied to my role as a leader and commander as well. When we think about leadership, we may think that characteristics like humility, approachability, and vulnerability can be signs of weakness. Sometimes we go into a new leadership opportunity thinking we have to put on this tough exterior in order to prove our credibility and capability.

I certainly did. And my young airmen proved me wrong. They taught me that showing the human side of leadership by being humble and approachable helped me create connections with my team. Yes, credibility is essential, and our team wants to see that too. But the best leaders I’ve worked for and with have shown vulnerability by being humble and approachable as well. It turns out that we can be strong and compassionate at the same time. We can be tough, and we can be kind.

5. How do you balance your roles as a keynote speaker, author, and parent?

Balancing multiple roles—whether as a mom of two boys, a fighter pilot, a group commander, or now as a keynote speaker and author—has definitely been challenging. I've learned that achieving "work-life balance" doesn't mean splitting time evenly every day. Some days, work requires more of my attention, and I might stay late or bring work home. Other days, I make a conscious effort to leave early and spend quality time with my family. 

It's important to give ourselves grace when it comes to balancing our personal and professional lives. Balance doesn't have to be daily; it might come over a week, a month, or even a year, especially with the demands of deployments. Whether you call it work-life balance, harmony, or integration, the key is to find what works for you, be intentional about your priorities, and remember that it's okay if things don't always go as planned.

6. Who has inspired you on your journey?

My parents have always been my role models and heroes. Their support and example have been a constant source of inspiration for me.

7. What are your future plans?

I'm thoroughly enjoying this new chapter of my life. I love sharing my experiences and lessons from my time as a fighter pilot and Air Force officer to help others on their aviation or leadership journeys. It’s incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to inspire and make a difference in this way.