Joni Rainwater
- Year you started skydiving: 2023
- Total number of jumps: 250’ish’
- Licenses / ratings: C-License, Coach
- First canopy → current canopy: Pilot 188, Sabre 135
- Role at Skydive Windy City: Coach & Packer
What got you into skydiving?
My Dad and I were really struggling after my mom passed away and he had the idea to go skydiving. I am terrified of heights, but was in such a low place in life that I was willing to do anything to feel better. That first tandem changed my life.
When did you realize this was more than just a hobby?
It was instantly after landing my very first tandem jump. I just remember thinking, “This is it, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.” I did some research and found the quickest route I could take to get licensed and never looked back. A week later I flew to Texas for their “A license in a week” program, became a packer in 2024 at Windy City which kept me at the DZ almost everyday, and I haven’t stopped jumping since.
What keeps you coming back?
The people. As much as I love jumping, the friends you meet and the tight bonds you form are what make it special. The dropzone feels like a second home and the people become family — even if we are a little dysfunctional.
Funniest thing that’s happened while skydiving?
I don’t know if I could pick a funniest, but a lot of funny moments for me are usually about my less than perfect landings. 😬
Favorite type of jump?
Freeflying for sure. Also anything challenging that gives me new skills to work on or build.
Go-to hype song before a jump?
I can’t pick one song, but anything Stick Figure or just “white boy reggae” in general lol.
What would you be doing if you weren’t skydiving?
I honestly have no idea and don’t want to know. Skydiving saved my life.
What separates a good instructor from a great one?
Being able to read a student and adjust your teaching accordingly. Also being able to toe the line of communicating directly and being blunt, while also being encouraging and instilling confidence in your students.
What’s the biggest lesson skydiving has taught you?
I can do hard things.
FROM THE SKY TO THE CREW
Who’s the most chaotic person on the team?
It’s a tie between Kevin and Bryan — love you guys.
Most unforgettable jump you’ve ever done?
Probably my 100th. Nothing went to plan, it was absolute chaos from the moment the plane started up. But a lot of my favorite people and biggest motivators were there and made me feel so special. 💕
What makes Windy City special?
The people. Some dropzones can be really clique-y and you don’t feel very welcome coming in as an outsider. I love that at Windy City, anyone new that walks in alone will be welcomed with open arms and have other people to jump with no matter their skill level. We’re a small, tight knit DZ, but at the same time we love welcoming new jumpers into the family.
Why She Loves What She Does
What do you enjoy most about working with first-time jumpers here?
I love watching students achieve their goals and hit new milestones.
What’s your biggest “this is why I love this job” moment?
My answer for this one is a little paradoxical, but I feel the most thankful for this job when I am exhausted, worn out, or annoyed — and then I remember I could be working anywhere else doing a miserable 9-5 job that I hate. Instead I get to hang out at an airport every day with some of my favorite people, doing something I love, and make money?! Yeah… even the worst days really aren’t that bad.
WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE SKYDIVE WINDY CITY
At Skydive Windy City, it’s more than just the jump, it’s the people, the community, and the moments that make the experience unforgettable. From passionate team members like Joni to the entire crew on the ground and in the sky, every part of the dropzone is built around helping people feel welcome, supported, and ready to experience something they’ll never forget.
Whether you’re planning your first tandem skydive near Chicago, working toward your license, or coming back for another jump over Lake Michigan, Skydive Windy City offers the kind of energy, views, and people that make every visit feel like home. When you’re ready to take the leap, there’s no better place to start.