Miami pilot flew around world in 97 days. Now he's inspiring next generation

• Irving's 2007 flight inspired him to create education programs for kids and, later, workforce training for adults.

Flashback: Irving, then a student at Florida Memorial University, flew 97 days around the world in a single-engine aircraft made of donated parts that he assembled.

• Aboard the "Inspiration," he flew 145 hours and made 27 stops in 13 countries to refuel.
• With no weather radar or de-icing, Irving flew through grueling storms and had a few close calls. (He recalls landing in Alaska with 12 minutes of fuel left.)
• "There is definitely some trauma from that trip, but a lot of good has come from it," he tells Axios.

The latest: The Barrington Irving Technical Training School graduated its first class of 15 local students last month.

• Irving says the program, which prepares students for jobs servicing airplanes, is expanding to around 50 local participants this year.

Some of his other projects include:

• Experience Aviation: Through this program, he has taught students to build airplanes and cars.

• Flying Classroom: Irving contracts with school districts to film his global expeditions and incorporate them into STEM courses.
• He's currently mentoring a young Florida pilot named Leona Serao, who is looking to become the first Black woman and African woman to fly around the world.

What they're saying: Irving credits his mentor, Capt. Gary Robinson, and his social studies teacher at Miami Northwestern Senior High, Ms. Batiste, for inspiring him to pursue his passion.

• He wants to continue giving back to his community by inspiring the youth and those struggling to find a career path.
• "I just love helping people," he says. "I don't ask for anything in return."