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Discover Emily Bushby: The Heart of EAA AirVenture as a Dedicated Volunteer

Update Deep Roots in Aviation: Emily Bushby’s Inspiring JourneyEmily Bushby is more than just a dedicated volunteer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh; she embodies the spirit of aviation through her family's rich legacy that intertwines with the EAA community. Born and raised in Oshkosh, Emily’s connection to AirVenture began before she even took her first breath, as her family tradition of attending the event every year has become a cornerstone of her life's narrative. She described her passion with a heartfelt declaration: “I’ll never meet somebody that loves Oshkosh more than me.”Emily's lineage carries a wonderful legacy—her grandfather, Bob Bushby, was present at the very first EAA meeting in 1953, and her grandmother was the first volunteer to receive a prestigious 40-year recognition for her service. This strong heritage inspired Emily to follow in their footsteps, resulting in her enthusiastic engagement as a volunteer. Just a few years into her volunteer work, she has made her presence felt on the AirVenture team.From Media Shuttle to Community KeeperStarting out on the media shuttle, a job she describes as “the best,” Emily relishes the opportunity to engage with attendees from around the globe. “You get to meet all these people, and you drive around a golf cart. I love it,” she explained, highlighting how each day is filled with new adventures. This sense of connection with people drives her dedication, as she seeks to recreate the warm, familial atmosphere that volunteering with her grandmother once offered.Sweet Traditions and Creative ExpressionsOne of Emily’s standout contributions is her annual tradition of baking over 300 “EAA-shaped” cookies, inspired by iconic designs like the Brown Arch and the Eagle. These sweet treats become tokens of connection, distributed randomly throughout the AirVenture grounds to spread joy and camaraderie among attendees. Furthermore, her creativity shines through with her hand-painted shoes, adorned with images depicting her love for aviation and personal touches that make her a beloved figure in the community. “It took me three months to paint them last year. I would do it a little [each] day after work,” she said, revealing her commitment to showcasing her passion through artistry.The Essence of Community at AirVentureMore than just a gathering of aviation enthusiasts, AirVenture represents a sense of home for Emily, who believes in the importance of fostering a strong community. “It was like a big family reunion,” Emily recalls, reflecting on her experiences with the people who share her love for aviation. Her involvement with the youth programs allows her to pass on her knowledge and passion, igniting the same fire she felt growing up. “There’s so much more than when I was little here,” she mentions excitedly, showcasing her eagerness to engage the next generation of aviators.Why Volunteers Are Essential to EAAAccording to Emily, volunteers are the backbone of EAA and AirVenture itself. “It’s just important,” she insists, as she highlights how essential community efforts contribute to a memorable experience for all attendees. With the event being built on volunteer dedication, she urges everyone to acknowledge and thank those giving their time and effort to foster the aviation community at large.Choosing to Inspire the FutureEmily’s story is not just about her passion for aviation; it's a call to action for everyone in the community. She encourages future volunteers and youth alike to immerse themselves in the experience and carry forward the rich traditions established by generations before them. As she says, “I can’t wait to have kids one day, and they can learn all this stuff. It’s just important,” illustrating her commitment to building a future for aviation that is inclusive and engaging.Join the EAA CommunityIf you’re inspired by Emily’s story and want to be part of creating unforgettable memories at AirVenture, consider becoming a volunteer. Every hand makes a difference in shaping the experience for thousands. To learn how to get involved or nominate someone for our Volunteer Spotlight series, visit EAA.org/Submissions. Your involvement can help create a family-like atmosphere for everyone.