Young Aviation Mechanic Lands a Habitat Home Near Family

At 23, aircraft and helicopter mechanic Cade S. is starting his career while accomplishing something he never expected to achieve so soon: becoming a homeowner.

Cade grew up near Piedmont, Oklahoma, where his family still lives. He said purchasing a safe, secure and energy-efficient Habitat home nearby makes the milestone especially meaningful.

“As I started my career, it’s been challenging to save enough money for a down payment while managing other basic living expenses,” Cade said. “I lived in Colorado Springs for more than a year, but I’ve since moved back to be close to my family. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to live near Piedmont.

“Being close to family means a lot to me, and it is one of the main reasons I’m excited about becoming a homeowner in this area.”

A high school counselor helped guide Cade toward a career in aviation. After graduating from Canadian Valley Technology Center, he worked as an aviation mechanic for SkyWest Airlines in Colorado. He has since returned to Oklahoma and now performs similar work locally, servicing helicopters for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Cade’s mother, Dorothy Joy R., is a technology teacher who taught at Piedmont High School. Cade said his mother and stepfather, Craig R., supported his decision to pursue Habitat homeownership.

He first learned about Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity’s New Home Construction program from his stepbrother, Aaron R., and quickly decided to apply.

Cade S., fifth from left, poses with family and friends during a dual home-dedication ceremony for Cade and fellow Habitat Homeowner Taneiqua H. on Nov. 20, 2025, at Cornerstone Creek in Oklahoma City.

“My mom was all for it when I applied to buy a home through Central Oklahoma Habitat,” Cade said. “I’ve been by the new house a few times, and it looks great. I never dreamed I’d be a homeowner so soon. It has been such a blessing!”

Cade celebrated the dedication of his new Cornerstone Creek home on Nov. 20, 2025, during a dual ceremony with fellow new homeowner Taneiqua H. Cade’s house is the 1,145th home built by Central Oklahoma Habitat since 1990.

Cade with friends and family

Cade S., fifth from left, poses with family and friends during a dual home-dedication ceremony for Cade and fellow Habitat Homeowner Taneiqua H. on Nov. 20, 2025, at Cornerstone Creek in Oklahoma City.