Life & Work with Dea Payette

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dea Payette.

Hi Dea, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was orphaned at age 3, adopted at age 4, and became a pilot 8 years ago because I remember that feeling that first flight gave me going from South Korea to America. The experience of living in America motivated me to inspire others to overcome their fears, obstacles, and trauma so that they live the life they have always dreamed of. It wasn’t always easy being the only Asian in my community. It is not always easy being a woman in a still male-dominated industry. As a survivor of domestic violence, it isn’t always easy to feel your worth and have hope for the future. But I DID survive being an orphan. I survived an abusive relationship. I survived training to be a pilot, which has led to freedom and independence I never imagined. I have had many second chances, and I do not take any of them for granted.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Some of the struggles I have overcome are racism, domestic violence, abuse, and being a petite woman flying airplanes. I want to say that things were easy, but I have had to prove myself every step. When I was called a dumb illiterate chink, I learned to speak and read English within 3 months of coming to America. I had to be the best in school. When I was told I was not worthy of love because even my mother did not want me, I went out on my own to prove I was worthy. I learned to love myself and be proud without the validation of others. When I became a pilot, I was told I was too short, a woman, and that I would most likely not finish flight training because I was a mom. So I passed my check ride in six weeks. For most in flight training, it takes 12-24 months to complete.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a music teacher by day. I am currently working on my Commercial Pilot Certificate. I am known as Cooper, The Pilot, as an aviation social media influencer who provides scholarships and opportunities to help future aviators. I am the reigning Mrs. South Korea World 2022. I wear many hats! I provide free white water rafting trips to the local community on weekends during the summer. As a DV/SA certified volunteer, I help women in the United States to get help to “get out and stay out” of domestic violence. The program is Women R Warriors, with the focus on Survivors Succeed. Philanthropy is a very important part of my life to give back to the community.

Can you talk to us about happiness and what makes you happy?
I can say today that so many parts of my life hold happiness. My children are the only family I have. They have filled that hole I grew up with, lacking love. Aviation is fulfilling because it gives me the identity I always craved. We have to remember, as moms, that it is important to have our own “thing.” I am truly blessed!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.linktr.ee/Cooperthepilot
• Instagram: @cooperthepilot
• Facebook: @cooperthepilot.usa
• Youtube: CooperThePilot
• Other: Tik Tok @cooperthepilot

Image Credits
Cooper The Pilot aka Dea Payette