Aaron Bazicki, a proud Colonie Central High School alumni and current gym coach, is embarking on an extraordinary new chapter in his life. Recently accepted into the prestigious Naval Flight Officer program, Bazicki’s journey exemplifies perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to service.

As a dedicated gym coach at Saddlewood Elementary, Bazicki has inspired students with his enthusiasm for physical fitness and his ability to foster teamwork. Now, he’s taking his passion for leadership and discipline to the skies as he prepares to serve in the United States Navy.

In this feature, we’ll explore Bazicki’s path—from his time as a student at Colonie to his current role as a coach, and now, his decision to take on the incredible challenge of becoming a Naval Flight Officer. Through his story, Bazicki hopes to inspire others in the Colonie community to dream big and pursue their goals with determination.

Q & A

What inspired you to pursue a career as a Naval Flight Officer?

From a young age I always wanted to be a pilot. I was born in Georgia and my family would take me to Blue Angel shows as a child and that was where my passion for aviation began. When the opportunity arose in high school, I applied to the Air Force and Naval Academies, but unfortunately, I wasn’t accepted. Undeterred, I pursued a different path, earning a degree in physical education before reapplying to become a naval aviator or naval flight officer.

I decided on the Navy because they have the best pilots and flight knowledge in the world, producing aviators and flight officers for special forces such as the Blue Angels and Top Gun.

Can you share some memorable experiences or key moments during your time at Colonie that helped shape your career aspirations?

Technology and science classes played a large role in helping shape my career aspirations. In middle school technology, I explored launching rockets, while in high school aerospace technology, I gained hands-on experience designing and testing aerofoils and wooden planes. Additionally, physics classes with Mrs. Vernold and Mrs. Famoso deepened my understanding of the principles behind rocket flight and provided a strong foundation in general physics concepts.

Who were your biggest role models or influences growing up, and how did they contribute to your decision to join the Navy?

My biggest role models growing up I would have to say were my parents. I always thought it was cliché when they would tell me that I could do anything I put my mind to. However as I matured, I began to understand how true that statement was. I have the opportunity to do something that when I was in high school felt far-fetched. 

Another influential individual in my young adult life was Kevin Ruane, an English teacher at Colonie High school. Mr. Ruane aided in my application for the Air Force and Naval Academies when I was applying for colleges my junior year of highschool, and acted as a very professional but humorous adult that I looked up to. I certainly wouldn’t be in my current position without Mr. Ruane’s altruism.

What was the process like for applying and being accepted into the Naval Flight Officer program?

Applying for the Naval Flight Officer program was a straightforward process. I began by contacting my local naval officer recruiter, located near Colonie Central High School on Wolf Road. Once in touch, I completed the necessary paperwork and submitted my resume, cover letter, letters of recommendation, and a statement explaining my purpose for becoming a Naval Officer.

Afterward, I scheduled the Aviation Selection Test Battery (ASTB) exam and arranged to visit the local Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Immediately following the ASTB, I received my scores and was informed that my application would be reviewed by the Navy Review Board. About two months later, my recruiter called to deliver the exciting news—I had been accepted into the program.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Don’t lose sight of who you are—your ambitions, dreams, and individuality. We all have the potential to become who we aspire to be. Trust the process and believe in your own abilities; everything that’s meant to happen will unfold in time.

Aaron Bazicki’s journey from Colonie alum to Naval Flight Officer serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to one’s dreams.With his dedication to service and leadership, Bazicki is sure to soar to incredible heights—both in the Navy and beyond.