JSSI Interns at EAA AirVenture: An Aviation Extravaganza

July 29, 2025

Every year, JSSI welcomes all interns on a trip to EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, also called “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration!” This is an unforgettable part of the JSSI internship experience, as we immersed ourselves in the world of aviation and learned about the complex history of planes and our industry.

AirVenture is an annual celebration of aviation that brings enthusiasts, professionals, and innovators together around the globe. As interns, we had an incredible time exploring the show, talking about everything aviation, and experiencing the “aviation bug” that all seasoned professionals have warned us about. I am excited to share some highlights from our day at Oshkosh.

To start the day, I had the opportunity to interview Lou Seno, JSSI Charmain Emeritus. One of the original founders of JSSI, today Mr. Seno wears many hats in the industry – he is the Executive Director of the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), to name a few. This year, he was celebrating 70 consecutive years (!) of attending EAA AirVenture and has an abundance of wisdom to share with us young professionals. With the backdrop of the JSSI booth, and Lou’s very own “JSSI Bonanza” he shared his advice.

From our conversation:

While AirVenture has transformed in many ways, many qualities have remained constant throughout the years. “EAA has always been a world class show, and every time you go you will see precision aerobatics, military aircraft, and the latest model planes in flight. This has been going on for forever,” Lou shared. He also emphasized another everlasting element – the inclusive learning environment at AirVenture.

“When someone walks through the forum tents, they can learn how to work with metal, composites, and electric systems. What has changed is how technology and artificial intelligence have entered the mix. The volume of innovators at the show who are constantly adapting and utilizing these new technologies are what makes this show so captivating.”

EAA AirVenture continues to align with its core values while adapting to new innovations. Even as a first timer, I was able to truly see these values carry forward. Not only was the programming world-class, but each attendee that I met was also pining to expand their knowledge and share their passions for flight.

I then asked Mr. Seno about his past and the monumental moments in his career that helped shape him. As someone who has immersed himself in the industry for decades, he shared, “It helps if you are passionate about the industry. The people who are here year after year have a passion for the industry and a love for all things that fly.” He went on to explain, “You don’t have to be a pilot. If you get introduced to it and it really touches you, you will have a great career. In any career, if you do what you love, you will be good at it.”

As we reflected on his early days, he emphasized the importance of seeking help when needed. “It is an amazing industry, and even when we compete with each other, we try to help each other.” Mr. Seno was originally in aircraft financing before becoming CEO at JSSI. When he encountered challenges, he would call other aircraft lenders in his network, and they would help him. This sense of community and collaboration has had a lasting impact on his career.

Walking the show:

After wrapping up our interview, I was able to tour the grounds and experience the magic of flight with my peers. It was fascinating to see the attendees showcasing their planes with pride and passion. The show was incredible: planes soaring at jet speed in the most beautiful, synchronous manner. Viewing the planes swoop through the sky while intentionally leaving a manicured vapor trail was mind-blowing.

Viewing the interior and cockpit of Boeing 747SP and U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules was just the beginning of an extraordinary day at AirVenture. Trey Woolley, an underwriting intern, recalls his personal connection to this aircraft. “It was incredibly meaningful to see the C-130 Hercules, a model my grandpa piloted in the US Air Force in the 1970s and 80s. felt a deep sense of connection to his stories sitting in the cockpit. Experiencing in person what my grandpa calls a “Courageous old Herky Bird” is something I will never forget.”

We saw a historic flyover featuring the world’s first jet aircraft ever, the Messerschmitt 262, followed by two P-51 Mustangs.

Another interesting exhibition was a model of the Boeing B-29 DOC, the most feared bomber in United States history. This is the only aircraft to drop a nuclear weapon in combat and is arguably the most controversial aircraft known to date. It was a monumental moment to witness this post-war aviation technology.

Later, we viewed a flyover by a Lockheed Martin F-35 combat aircraft zooming through the sky. This plane can produce a peak noise level of approximately 115 decibels – comparable to a rock concert. The speed of the plane was jarring – it was difficult to hear each other’s voices as it roared past.

Amongst all the noise and activity, the iconic Goodyear Blimp was peacefully floating on the horizon. With just four Goodyear Blimps in operation worldwide, two of them were present at the show.

Another highlight of the day was an impressively unconventional helicopter performance. These aircraft went against the grain- flying upside down, backwards, nose diving, and rolling inverted like a jet. This performance challenged what we thought helicopters were capable of.

Davis Flint, Parts & Leasing intern and aircraft enthusiast, reflects upon his day. “Watching the night airshow was one of my favorite parts. Pilot Randy flew a Mig-17 which is one of the most iconic first-generation fighter aircraft of all time. Seeing such an amazing piece of history fly with a full afterburner at sunset was an unforgettable experience.”

Learning about industry organizations:

From performances to aircraft tours, we also attended the IADA/NAFA reception hosted by GAMA. At this reception, we were able to learn about how these associations are in place to set industry guidelines and drive collaboration in aircraft sales, manufacturing, and financing. We were able to connect with industry professionals and celebrate Mr. Seno’s very special 70th anniversary at Oshkosh.

That was then followed by a delicious barbeque hosted by Embry-Riddle. Loa Johannsson, Embry-Riddle alumna and data analytics intern, shares, “My time at EAA AirVenture was a highlight of my internship! As an Embry-riddle alumna, it was a privilege to attend the Embry-Riddle barbeque. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect with inspiring alumni who share the same passion for aviation as me and other interns at JSSI.”

As I reflect on the experience, gratitude comes first, as we would not have been able to have such an amazing experience without JSSI. I learned that the lively atmosphere at AirVenture was not just because of the extravagant show, but because of the community of aircraft connoisseurs. Having the opportunity to meet aviation leaders such as Mr. Seno taught me that if you fall in love with aviation, not only does it become your career, but also a love that makes work feel like a hobby. I invite all readers to attend and experience this great show.