 SAFE #: 0237 Hometown: Odessa, TX Home Airport: KODO Occupation: Flight Instructor/Contract Pilot Website: www.flight-source.com & www.pilotcoach.com Education: Community College of the Air Force, Aviation Career Academy Pilot Certificates: Commercial ASEL & AMEL, CFI, AGI Airplanes Flying/Flown: Several different airplanes in the past. Currently flying the Diamond 20 & 40, Beech Bonanza F33, A36, B36TC, G36, Cessna 414 & 421, & a Piper Cheyenne I |
Q & A
| What drew you to aviation? For some reason I have always had an infatuation with aviation. I was a member of Civil Air Patrol as a teenager and had several opportunities to fly.
How long have you been involved in aviation education? I’ve been a Flight Instructor since September 2001. However, I began teaching as a teenager in Civil Air Patrol. What’s your favorite part of what you do in aviation education? I have a lot of favorite parts. I enjoy having a part in the education of others. I love watching people “come alive” as they accomplish what so few have had the opportunity to do. I love the view from my “cubicle”. I love the constant challenge to find new ways to teach to varied personalities. I could continue, but I’ll stop there. What’s your least favorite part of what you do in aviation education? Working with students who think that they have it all mastered and so have stopped listening to instruction. Why did you join SAFE? I joined SAFE because I am committed to becoming the best flight educator that I can be. I want to be a true educator not just an instructor. I also, want to surround myself with respected educators whose actions inspire me to become a better teacher. What would you like to see change in aviation? I would like to see flight instruction become more of a respected chosen profession rather than a stepping stone to a “more glamorous” flying job. Any suggestions on how the above might be accomplished? CFIs should treat their profession with passion. It boils down to having a good work ethic. We are paid to educate our students. Better pay would aid in retaining those who would like to make teaching a career, however, it is only a small part of what needs to be changed. Who are your role models in aviation? All of the flight instructors I’ve had who’ve inspired me to follow my dreams. |