THE PROJECT

The Reno Air Racing Association runs the National Championship Air Race and Air Show, the biggest air event in the country. I got my first taste of the beloved Reno Air Races, as they’re also known, as a kid and years later, I was fortunate to get in on the behind-the-scenes action at my old agency. There, I got to brainstorm and write print, TV and radio spots, two of which won Addy® awards back in 2005 and 2006. When I started freelancing in 2008, I stayed in the loop for years as a contributing writer and editor for the event’s program and helped the Reno Air Racing Foundation on a project-by-project basis.

THE APPROACH

With copy sent in from various pilots, the big trick to proofing the annual programs was continuity. I identified an appropriate voice to match the event’s theme, which changes year to year, and adjusted all submitted articles as needed. Turnaround was usually tight, so as usual, I had to be quick and efficient.

Working for the Foundation meant traditional copywriting. The organization is committed to preserving the past and fostering the future of aviation with today’s youth, and I was hired to write brochure copy and persuasive donation letters designed to share that mission and solicit contributions.

THE UPSHOT

While I’m no longer working for the Reno Air Races, I had a great run. “It has been a pleasure to work with Jessica these past six years,” says Valerie Miller-Moore, former director of marketing. “Her skill in proofreading and copywriting has been nothing but outstanding for the Reno Air Races. Her attention to detail speaks for the award winning programs for ICAS. I appreciate her attention to detail and the quality of her work and dedication to each project. I could not have put together the programs, brochures, website and blogs without her. I hope that we will be able to work together again in the future.”