Alex Livingston’s ambition to become a commercial pilot got a fun lift when he won the #GenSTEM photo contest from TI.

As part of his prize for winning the contest, the aspiring pilot traveled to Dallas where he got a behind-the-scenes tour and time with Southwest Airlines pilot Capt. Adam Schindall to learn what it takes to become a professional aviator.

Capt. Schindall, a 25-year veteran pilot, says like many students he struggled with understanding the importance of learning math when he was in junior high — but now uses that same math to succeed in his career.

“Solving for X? What in the world would I ever need to know that for?” he says, adding: “Pilots do that every day, all day.”

Capt. Schindall, who provided expert insight for this classroom activity, hopes to help students get excited about learning math and science, and inspired to pursue STEM careers like aviation.

Alex, who has already logged 25 flight hours in single-engine and glider aircraft, is on the path to success in a very cool career.