District X
Arizona, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah
JR Schiager
Vice President
One of the greatest privileges of serving as District X vice president is visiting flying fields and meeting the incredible people who make our hobby so special. During a recent visit to the Bridgerland RC Club in Mendon, Utah, I met someone whose determination left a lasting impression on me.
Twenty-nine-year-old Kaden Bingham grew up near Preston, Idaho, where he enjoyed farming, sports, motocross, and snowmobiling. After high school, he pursued a career in law enforcement and became a police officer. His life changed dramatically on July 3, 2022, when a motocross accident broke his neck at the C6 vertebra, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. Following emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation, Kaden faced the challenge of rebuilding his life. Rather than focusing on what he had lost, he chose to focus on what was still possible.
Today, Kaden lives independently in Logan, Utah, and earlier this year, he became an AMA member after returning to model aviation. With no finger function and limited arm movement, flying an RC aircraft might have seemed impossible. Instead, Kaden found a solution through custom 3D-printed transmitter adapters from Accessible Hobbies Co. (accessiblehobbies.com), allowing him to fly using movements from his shoulders and arms.
Watching Kaden fly was remarkable. His smooth, confident control made it hard to believe that he has only been actively flying for a few months. His current fleet includes an E-flite T-28, Airbus A380, AeroScout, Flex Innovations RV-8 Super, and a Great Planes CAP 232 powered by a 53 cc gasoline engine. His goal is to continue improving his aerobatic skills, learn advanced 3D flying, and eventually compete in International Miniature Aerobatic Club (IMAC) events.
When I asked Kaden what advice he would give others facing adversity, his answer was simple: “Life still goes on. It may be different than what you imagined, but it still goes on. You still have family, friends, and people who care about you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The worst thing you can do is sit there and say, ‘Poor me.’ You have to adapt and keep moving forward.”
Kaden’s story is a reminder that model aviation is about much more than airplanes. It is about friendship, encouragement, and overcoming challenges together. The members of the Bridgerland RC Club welcomed him into their community, and his determination has inspired everyone who has met him.
As I left the field that day, I couldn’t help but think that Kaden represents the very best of our AMA community. His perseverance reminds us that while life doesn’t always go as planned, passion and determination can still help us reach new heights.
Thank you, Kaden, for sharing your story with the AMA family. I look forward to following your journey as you continue pursuing your goals in IMAC and 3D flying.
