Donna F. Highers
A native of Chattanooga, Donna Highers has dedicated her life to advancing aviation education. Her efforts and expertise have shaped the careers of thousands of aviation professionals within the industry. A career spanning more than 43 years, Donna is a respected leader in the FAA examination preparation and aviation maintenance instruction.
Donna began her career in 1983 as an Aviation Instructor with Aviation Test Center, where she specialized in FAA exam preparation. In 1988, she joined King’s School of Aeronautics, which became Baker’s School of Aeronautics in 1994, where she continues to serve as the Chief Instructor.
Throughout her distinguished career, Donna Highers has instructed every pilot course available. She also has successfully completed the FAA written examinations for Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Instrument, Aircraft Dispatcher and has an Advanced Instrument Ground Instructor certification. Her personal academic performance exemplifies the high standards she holds for herself and expects from her students.
During her 38-year career with Baker’s School of Aeronautics, Donna has played a pivotal role in the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) and the Inspection Authorization (IA) fields. Her expertise and dedication have directly impacted the professional journeys and careers of more than 22,000 A&P and IA students from all over the World. With more than 78,000 hours of classroom instruction, she is one of the most experienced, influential and well-known aviation educators in the field of aviation maintenance.
Donna Higher’s unwavering commitment to excellence, mastery of FAA regulations and passion for student success have left an enduring legacy to her students and future generations. Her career stands as a testament to her dedication, professionalism and profound impact on the aviation community.
For her exemplary service and contributions to Aviation in Tennessee, our Nation and the World, Donna F. Highers is enshrined in the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame this 26th day of September, 2026.
