earning one's wings
Achieving full qualification
Earning one's wings means proving oneself through experience or achievement, gaining the credentials or respect that come with demonstrated competence.
The phrase comes from military aviation, where pilots receive wing insignia after completing training.
It now applies broadly to any field where newcomers must prove themselves: She's still earning her wings as a surgeon.
The expression suggests that full membership or recognition must be worked for, not simply granted.
- badgeWorn symbol of membership
- rite of passageTransition-marking ceremony
- coming of ageReaching adult status
- milestoneNotable event marking progress
- pilotOne who steers aircraft
flight school · flight · training · apprenticeship · learning the ropes · proving ground · trial by fire · perseverance · certification · breakthrough · qualification · expertise · aviation · accomplishment · mentorship · honor · initiation · mastery