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Considering a career change into aviation and not sure what you your goal looks like? In this episode we discuss how to better stay focused on your goal of becoming a pilot without getting distracted or discouraged.

If you want to ask a question visit: 

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/

Or feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com 

Question 1:

I'm a 39-year-old male prospective career swapper living in CA, so naturally, I purchased access to your guide.  

Is there a way to filter my search for scholarships that aren't just for teens/students, women-only, or geographically limited? 

Question 2 from Contact Page:

I am considering a career change into aviation and I'm not sure what my end goal looks like at this time but I do know that I want to fly for work.  Currently, I am a private pilot with about 110 flight hours. 

My next step towards flying as a career is to get my instrument rating but I am having a difficult time getting through the ground school portion of the instrument rating.  The ground school I purchased seems not to be designed for beginning learners and I'm not finding it as easy to pick up on as I did with the private pilot ground school. 

I am trying to go through the ground school portion first due to limited funds and want to get as much knowledge as I can before being able to begin actual instrument flight training. 

Do you have any advice as to how I can stay focused on learning the instrument rating?  Or what can make it more fun?  It seems to be a less interesting rating to study and I'm having a hard time with it.  

Answer:

  • Watch YouTube videos such as our “descend via video” that might pique your interest. https://youtu.be/ucOhjE9dL2Y 
  • Jump into a simulator and fly some approaches. You don't need an expensive sim.
  • https://flightsimassociation.com/ 
  • Instrument knowledge and flying skills are most important for a career as a pilot.
  • Take a break and read books such as “everything explained for the professional pilot”: https://amzn.to/3FvbCVQ
  • Visit your goals often and redefine your goals.
  • It is easier to progress through the tough times if you have the end in sight.

Question 3 from the Contact Page:

I would like to know if the scholarship guide only contains stuff for the USA or if it includes other countries. I am in Canada but have Brazilian and EU citizenship as well. I have not started flying yet but am hoping to do this year! Thank You.

To discuss the specifics of your situation I would have someone review your numbers and your goals. We can help at https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/ 

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw” at

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/ 

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at https://www.strumorlaw.com/ 

Links:

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/ 

 

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If you want to ask a question visit:
http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/
Or feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw” at

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/
The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at www.strumorlaw.com

Listener Mail:

I’m a 34-year-old veteran transitioning into a reduced (1250 hours) ATP flight school. I’m using my GI benefits to fund this 2 year associate program which will provide all of the qualifications I need.
I’m attending a small community college. Does this matter? What issues do you see me having post-school with hiring in the fact that it’s a reduced program? I’m starting flight school as someone who’s jumped out of but never flown planes. Any advice? Thank you and I really enjoy the podcast.

The size of the school doesn’t matter for hiring.
Flight Time is most important.
The benefit to a large school is the larger network of alumni.
Even though you are used to jumping out of planes I would recommend you not leave the plane during your training.
The GI Bill is an amazing opportunity.
There are many people who have done the same and you should look towards others to network with.
If you have words of encouragement please visit our contact page https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/

Question 2 from Contact Page:

Hi Carl, I would like to visit you at the hangar one of these days. I usually drive to Lakeland most Saturdays. Should I let you know through this means before I head that way? Thank You.

Answer:
I am trying to figure out ways to have a meetup at the airport. Let me know your suggestions.
Would you be interested in a career seminar and tour of the facilities?

Question 3 from Contact Page:

Hello Mr. Valeri. I'd like to start by saying I really like listening to your podcast and even though I'm a fairly new listener, I enjoy the content and look forward to every new episode as soon as it comes out.

I wanted to reach out because I want to get an opinion from you. I really need some guidance on this, and I would love to hear what you have to say about it.

To give some context, I'm from Venezuela, and living in the USA. I have always wanted to fly, and after some years, I'm in a position in which I'm finally able to grasp that dream. However, it comes with challenges...

My options are minimal as far as financing goes, the first one being taking out a student loan of $100k to pay for my training at ATP. This was my first option, as it was very clear on the path, and the repayment plan from the financial institution is comfortable during school and training. After this, however, the official repayment begins at $1800/month for a 15-year term and $1600 for a 10-year term.

My interest rates are this high because I'm not yet a permanent resident, making it a little bit more "riskier" to the banks. I was not approved through Sallie Mae for this reason, but I was "approved" through Meritize. I quote the approval because they offered me some repayment plans as I mentioned.

Now everything looks okay, but my concern is if I can make ends meet with an entry-level pilot salary. I really want to go this way since it's a very clear path, but I also do not want to drown myself in debt and continuously stress over this...

I have also checked with a smaller school, and their commercial pilot's license comes out to be at around $34000 total from 0 to 250 hours (with all the minimum FAA requirements). I thought of adding a few more hours of flight training simply because I have read many pilots don't get their certificate with only the minimums, so I set a projected amount of $50000, which I would have to get as a personal loan for. This option, compared to the $100k from ATP, looks way better of course, but being a personal loan means I would have to start paying the monthly quote immediately. And over an 84-month loan, this goes at around $950/month.

I know this is a long and somewhat specific situation, but I would like to know your opinion on the matter, and if there are any other alternatives for me out there.

I'm 26, about to turn 27 years old this year.

I thank you beforehand, for taking the time to read this.

Safe flying.

Answer:
Make sure you write down exactly what you are paying for to compare the two options.
What ratings are you obtaining and does your budget include cross country time?
Benefits of a small school vs large school is the number of planes and ability to recover from a maintenance issue because of spares.
Will you be working while you are going to school, family considerations, etc.

To discuss the specifics of your situation I would have someone review your numbers and your goals. We can help at https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw” at

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at www.strumorlaw.com

Links:
https://www.meritize.com/

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/


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Today I am speaking with the first female President of the Florida International Airshow and an all-around great person. Denise Dull.  If you like exciting action-packed airshows that give back to the local community you will love the Florida International Airshow in Punta Gorda Florida. 

We are excited to be part of the Florida International Airshow this year and will be in a tent at the show so please stop by and say hi.

Preflight Checklist:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC - you can find them at www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw” https://aerospacescholarships.com/ 

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, including FAA safety investigations and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at  www.strumorlaw.com

Cruise Flight: 

  • I am honored to be speaking with Denise Dull, President of the Florida International Airshow.
  • My favorite quote from Denise is “An AirShow is like taking football, pizza, beer, baseball, fireworks, NASCAR, and Skynyrd and rolling it all up with a bang! If you've not been to an AirShow, you're missing a lot of fun. And we all need more of that.”
  • What can we expect to see this year?
  • I’m a first-time attendee and participant. What is the purpose of the show?
  • Is this an event for the entire family?
  • When and why did you get involved in the airshow?
  • Denise and her connection with aviation.
  • Partnerships with local organizations such as the airport authority. 
  • How her past experience with nonprofits will help this event soar.
  • How do you plan for an airshow? (in 60 seconds…just kidding)
  • The challenges of having some A list performers such as the Thunderbirds and Patty Wagstaff.
  • Why are you proud to be part of the organization and airshow?
  • How do we buy tickets and find places to stay?
  • How can our listeners volunteer?
  • Final thoughts.

 

After Landing Checklist:

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC - you can find them at www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw” https://aerospacescholarships.com/

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, including, FAA safety investigations and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at  www.strumorlaw.com

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/FloridaAirShow 

https://www.floridaairshow.com/ 

https://www.flypgd.com

Meet The Stuck Mic AvCast Team at

Upcoming Events and Air Shows:

NOV. 4TH & 5TH 2023: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW

https://www.floridaairshow.com 

April 9-14 2024 Sun N Fun:

https://flysnf.org 

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Do you think you can’t become a pilot due to a past medical issue? You might be surprised at what can and cannot affect your medical. Today we will discuss why you should not let a past medical issue prevent you from pursuing your dream of becoming a pilot.

If you want to ask a question visit: 

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/

Or feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com 

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw”

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at  www.strumorlaw.com 

Listener Questions From YouTube:

I think you should do an episode with a veteran with a VA disability, who became a pilot. What was his/her obstacle to getting a 1st class medical?

Perceived Medical Challenges for Pilots:

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw”

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at  www.strumorlaw.com 

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ACP370 Airline Career Pilot Programs Explained

 

Today we answer a question concerning airline career programs. They come with many names including pathway, flow-through, gateway, destinations, and many more. In this episode, I will try to explain the benefits and challenges of these programs coming up next.

If you want to ask a question visit: 

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/

Or feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com 

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw”

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at  www.strumorlaw.com 

Listener Questions:

Thank you for the great content and helpful information! I’ve heard you answer multiple questions about people changing careers and getting into aviation a little later in life. That’s the position I am in, and I’m trying to sort out what would be the best path for me.  

I am 38 and currently have zero aviation experience.  I feel like if I’m going to switch careers to aviation, I need to pick a path and stick with it since I am starting late and seniority is king.  So, the airline-specific programs are of interest to me such as Southwest’s Destination 225.  What are your thoughts on these types of programs?

My Thoughts on Airline Career Programs:

  • It really depends on your situation.
  • You only need to interview once.
  • Costs are many times higher than if you did it on your own.
  • During good times they are great.
  • They move people off the seniority list at the regionals quicker.
  • During bad times they often have flow-back provisions.
  • The time and cost may be more than you anticipated.
  • You can many times make it to a major quicker and less expensive on your own.
  • Prepares you to become an airline pilot because you use airline procedures from the start.
  • Programs are set up similarly to ab initio programs and are now mostly called “cadet” programs.  The programs have been popular in the past and are still popular in other countries.
  • There are many options where private flight schools have affiliations with airlines through cadet programs. 
  • It may be your last interview but be prepared to interview with others. 
  • Check Ride Failures matter. Some have a maximum of 3.
  • Real-Life Examples:
  1. From zero to the left seat of an airbus.
  2. Some think it is their last interview but it is not.
  3. Rotor transition 

 

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC you can find www.strumorlaw.com. They are giving away 50 scholarship guides. You can get yours for free using the coupon code “StrumorLaw”

The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC handles various aviation matters, safety investigations, and pilot medical certification. You can find them on the web at  www.strumorlaw.com 

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SMAC307 Triple Tree Aerodrome with Rob Williams

Welcome to Episode 307

In past episodes, we mentioned we would be participating in the Triple Tree Fly-In but didn’t explain the purpose and details of the event. Today we have Robb Williams, the Executive Director of the Triple Tree Aerodrome, to give us some background and explain why this might become one of your favorite aviation events. Welcome to the show Robb.

Preflight Checklist:

Pay It Forward.

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/pay-it-forward/ 

Our next event is the Triple Tree Fly-In https://tta.aero/ttfi/ Bill English is planning to attend so please say hello.

Cruise Flight: 

  • Welcome Robb Williams
  • What is Triple Tree Fly-In
  • Fun, Fellowship, and Hospitality
  • The history of Triple Tree Aerodrome
  • Educational Programs
  • Where is the airport
  • Who should attend
  • Why we should attend.
  • Events other than the fly-in

 

After Landing Checklist

Sponsor:

Links:

https://tta.aero/ttfi/ 

https://youtu.be/oroquCI0XtY?si=XtwU4pbnxCI3zBBk

 

Meet The Stuck Mic AvCast Team at

Upcoming Events and Air Shows:

September 18-24, 2023: 16th Annual Triple Tree Fly-In 

https://tta.aero/ttfi/ 

NOV. 4TH & 5TH 2023: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW

https://www.floridaairshow.com 

April 9-14 2024:

https://flysnf.org 

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SMAC307 Triple Tree Aerodrome with Rob Williams

Welcome to Episode 307

In past episodes, we mentioned we would be participating in the Tripple Tree Fly-In but didn’t explain the purpose and details of the event. Today we have Robb Williams, the Executive Director of the Triple Tree Aerodrome, to give us some background and explain why this might become one of your favorite aviation events. Welcome to the show Robb.

Preflight Checklist:

Pay It Forward.

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/pay-it-forward/ 

Our next event is the Triple Tree Fly-In https://tta.aero/ttfi/ Bill English is planning to attend so please say hello.

Cruise Flight: 

  • Welcome Robb Williams
  • What is Triple Tree Fly-In
  • Fun, Fellowship, and Hospitality
  • The history of Triple Tree Aerodrome
  • Educational Programs
  • Where is the airport
  • Who should attend
  • Why we should attend.
  • Events other than the fly-in

 

After Landing Checklist

Sponsor:

Links:

https://tta.aero/ttfi/ 

https://youtu.be/oroquCI0XtY?si=XtwU4pbnxCI3zBBk

 

Meet The Stuck Mic AvCast Team at

Upcoming Events and Air Shows:

September 18-24, 2023: 16th Annual Triple Tree Fly-In 

https://tta.aero/ttfi/ 

NOV. 4TH & 5TH 2023: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW

https://www.floridaairshow.com 

April 9-14 2024:

https://flysnf.org 

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SMAC306 The Successful Flying Club

 

Welcome to episode 306. Today Brianna Dittman will discuss how to successfully run a flying club. Brianna is involved with the administration of the Jacksonville Naval Flying Club, an administrator for a company ferrying airliners worldwide, and an adjunct aviation professor.

Preflight Checklist:

Pay It Forward.

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/pay-it-forward/ 

Our next event is the Tripple Tree Fly-In https://tta.aero/ttfi/ Bill English is planning to attend so please say hello.

Cruise Flight: 

 

After Landing Checklist

Sponsor:

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannadittman/ 

www.jaxnfc.com 

jaxnfc@gmail.com 

Meet The Stuck Mic AvCast Team at

Upcoming Events and Air Shows:

September 18-24, 2023: 16th Annual Triple Tree Fly-In 

https://tta.aero/ttfi/ 

NOV. 4TH & 5TH 2023: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW

https://www.floridaairshow.com 

April 9-14 2024:

https://flysnf.org 

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ACP368 How Social Media Can Ruin Your Career

After decades of counseling pilots, I have seen many people ruin a great career through their actions and posts on social media. Today we want to help you avoid the pitfalls of social media and give advice on how you can recover from a social media blunder. Joining me today is Aviation Attorney Chris Pezalla to discuss what you can do if you do eventually make a social media blunder.

If you want to ask a question visit http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/

Sponsor:

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/pay-it-forward/

Get a free scholarship guide at:

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/

Use Coupon: payitforward

Talking Points:

Yes, recruiters are watching you.

So is your current employer.

Remember you are an ambassador for your airline.

How to avoid becoming a social media tragedy. Take time to think and review.

Some horror stories. 

Filming your own violation.

Using social media correctly. And not at work.

Posting on social media lasts forever and why.

What to do when you are terminated due to your social media posts.

-Getting the job back

-Moving on

For help with legal issues visit the Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC

www.strumorlaw.com

Sponsor:

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/pay-it-forward/

Get a free scholarship guide at:

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/

Use Coupon: payitforward

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SMAC305 Airventure 2023

Welcome to episode 305. Today we recap our best experiences from AirVenture 2023. Joining me today is Bill English.

Preflight Checklist:

This episode is sponsored https://www.aviatorsclinic.com Flight Medicine for pilots by pilots. Use the Coupon Code AviatorsClinic to get a free scholarship guide.

Cruise Flight:

The Airventure experience is both online and in person.
The Safari
- Flying into OSH - preparation, what you need, the NOTAM, where to stay, etc.
- This year's attendance
- "What do you do here?"
- All the different aircraft areas
Workshops - I did a fabric workshop
Forums - Training safety, multi-engine, engine teardown,
The show planes, airshows
Twilight fest
Night show
Vendors, food, swag,
People make it great. Visiting the airshow family and bringing new people.

After Landing Checklist:

Pick Of The Week:

Carl - https://youtu.be/5MMpz8sIang When AirVenture ends, but you can’t let go yet…

Bill - Like a little slice of OSH on a grass field!! https://tta.aero/ttfi/ Triple Tree Fly-In, South Carolina. SC00

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored https://www.aviatorsclinic.com Flight Medicine for pilots by pilots. Use the Coupon Code AviatorsClinic to get a free scholarship guide.

Whether a student pilot is preparing to solo or a veteran crop duster, their goal is to get you into the air and keep you flying. Aviators Clinic understands how nerve-racking doctor's exams can be. Their goal is to make the process as easy and painless as possible.

Aviators Clinic provides FAA 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class flight physicals and BasicMed exams. For those with color vision issues, they have an Optec 900, an FAA-approved alternative color vision test. Flight physicals are free of charge for student pilots 17 years and younger.

Aviators Clinic has two convenient locations in Naples and Pompano Beach, Florida. Book your appointment today at https://www.aviatorsclinic.com/

http://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/

Links:

https://www.eaa.org/airventure

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