ERIN DOBBS
Advertising and Partnership Director
By Jay Smith | jays@modelaircraft.org
JAY SMITH: How did you become involved with model aviation?
ERIN DOBBS: When I was 10, Santa brought me an RC car. That’s how it all started. I grew up in a very rural area, so driving an RC car up and down our gravel road is a wonderful childhood memory. Santa brought me my first trainer airplane when I was 42! I am currently learning to fly. Thankfully, we have some extremely talented pilots at AMA to teach those who want to learn to fly.
JS: How has model aviation impacted your life and/or career?
ED: I was hired in 1999 as a part-time college student. At that time, the goal was nursing. After two months at AMA, I was offered a full-time job that would work around my class schedule. They even informed me of an employee benefit that pays for further education. It was a no brainer; I changed my major to business administration and marketing, and the rest is history.
JS: What disciplines of modeling do you currently participate in?
ED: I love building plastic models. I am currently working on a Gotta Have It Green Ford Mustang plastic model. Next on the list is a Vietnam 1970 UH-1 Iroquois Helicopter, aka Huey. My dad is a Vietnam vet, so it will be for him.
JS: What other hobbies do you have?
ED: Horses. I grew up on a small farm, so I was in 4-H. All my friends had horses and thankfully, they would invite me to trail ride. I got my first horse, Candy, when I was 20. I had to say goodbye to her in 2015. I never thought that hobby would come full circle, but it did, and I am so thankful.
Oliver is my trail horse, and his little pasture buddy’s name is Bob, or Bob the Wonder Pony (I did not name him).
I will add that a saddle rack can double as an airplane holder in a pinch!
I am not sure whether it is a hobby, but I love spending time with my two Chihuahuas, Meredith and Anna-Beth. They can certainly make a difficult day much better.
JS: Who or what has influenced you the most?
ED: So many people and experiences have played an influence throughout my life. To be specific: my husband, my parents, my best friend, and my career/peers at AMA. I have met some incredible people throughout my life/career. I’m extremely grateful for all those friendships.
JS: Why should someone consider advertising in the magazine?
ED: AMA is not just a magazine. We are a community inspired by the incredible people who make up this great hobby. Supporting one another within this industry will protect the right for future generations to enjoy the hobby of model aviation.
