By Sabrina Novacov
From soaring the skies as a U.S. Air Force Senior Pilot and C-17 Instructor Aircraft Commander to crafting stories that inspire the next generation, Teri Webber has charted a remarkable course from cockpit to author. Her Operation Aviation picture book series introduces young readers to the world of military aviation through endearing aircraft characters, each on a mission that mirrors real-life values like courage, teamwork, and service. In this interview, Teri shares how her experiences in the Air Force—and at home as a mom—sparked a storytelling journey rooted in connection, creativity, and honoring the military community she knows so well.
Q: As a U.S. Air Force Senior Pilot and C-17 Instructor Aircraft Commander, was there a particular experience or moment in your career that sparked the idea to share your journey through storytelling and ultimately become an author?
A: I have always loved writing; my bookshelves are filled with countless old journals that I wrote to both process and document my life. But, truthfully, I never considered sharing my experiences with anyone, mostly because I couldn’t imagine anyone (other than my mom) would be interested in reading about them. My stories were simply written by me and for me, and—until I had kids—I never considered writing for anyone but myself. But having children, as it’s known to do, changes everything.
Q: What inspired you to create Operation Aviation, and how did the concept evolve from bedtime stories to a published series?
A: Like so many parents, my husband and I read to our kids daily, and I wanted to find picture books that would introduce them to military aviation in a fun, engaging, age-appropriate way. Nothing existed that checked everything off my wish-list, so my husband—knowing I love to write—suggested I just create something myself. Moose on a Mission started as a fun passion project and was a love letter to my jet (the C-17); it was simply a way to explain my job to my own kids and bring them into my professional world. Ultimately, though, I loved the creative process so much that I just kept writing, and once both Toad the Tanker and Fly with Mytai were finished I began querying the series. It was picked up by Elva Resa Publishing, and the publisher, editors, illustrator, and I worked together closely to mold my manuscripts into the Operation Aviation that’s on bookshelves today.
Q: Each book features a different jet—Mytai, Toad, Moose—embodying traits like teamwork, helpfulness, and courage. How did you choose their personalities and missions to reflect broader life lessons?
A: The personalities of all my characters came through very organically in my drafting process, which is really a testament to the aircrafts’ distinct mission sets. By highlighting each plane’s innate attributes, I was able to build a storyline off their strengths while also showcasing what it is they actually do all day. For example, the KC-135 is—by design—a helper; its job is to keep other aircraft flying so those jets can then go on to execute their own missions. By showcasing these traits and themes, I was then able to expand even further and weave in those broader life lessons very naturally. The real-life planes did a lot of the work for me!
Q: Reflecting on how this passion project became a published series, what’s the most rewarding moment you've had since the books launched?
A: For me, there is no greater reward than seeing Operation Aviation in the hands of military children—kids whose grown-ups are part of the communities my stories are based on. It’s incredibly special to know that my words can help bridge the gap between a child and their adult… That they can serve as a translation tool to bring a family closer together. The military world is so unique and can be incredibly challenging to navigate, especially for children, so I love being able to help kids understand it better and give them a way to feel more included in their adult’s professional life.
Q: What adventures lie ahead—are there more Operation Aviation stories, new characters, or even different formats in the works?
A: I’m currently working on something entirely different: a middle grade book that follows four girls throughout a summer together. Once I complete this project, though, I do plan on revisiting Operation Aviation! I already have two stories in mind that will bring back some old friends but primarily explore new characters and different mission sets. Stay tuned!
Bio: Teri Weber Boivin is a Major, Senior Pilot, and former C-17A Instructor Aircraft Commander in the United States Air Force. With a passion for developing the next generation of aviators, Teri wrote the Operation Aviation™ picture book series to showcase military aircraft adventures via anthropomorphic Air Force jets. Her publications include Fly with Mytai, Vuela con Maytai, Toad the Tanker, El Tanquecito, Moose on a Mission, and La Misión de Alce. Teri’s honors and accolades include an Air Medal, an Aerial Achievement Medal, a Meritorious Service Medal, and—in 2024—Teri was selected as one of Women in Aviation International’s Top 30 Emerging Leaders. Teri currently lives in Washington D.C. with her husband, an Active Duty Marine, and their two young children.
Instagram: @ teriweberwrites
Spousely Shop Link: https://spouse-ly.com/store/operation-aviation/
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