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Questions, comments, or inspirational stories; please write to us at feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com.

Our latest video:

https://www.youtube.com/@AviationCareersPodcast

Stick and Rudder: An Explanation of the Art of Flying
This timeless book is essential for those who want to master the basics of flying and truly master the art of flying.

https://amzn.to/3L2rV2Z

Aviation Weather Handbook Revision A

The Aviation Weather Handbook FAA-H-8083-28A consolidates the weather information from the following advisory circulars (AC) into one source document. By doing this, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) intends to streamline access to the FAA’s weather documentation for users of the National Airspace System (NAS). The following AC’s are now canceled:
AC 00-6, Aviation Weather
AC 00-24, Thunderstorms
AC 00-30, Clear Air Turbulence Avoidance
AC 00-45, Aviation Weather Services
AC 00-54, Pilot Windshear Guide
AC 00-57, Hazardous Mountain Winds

https://amzn.to/4poQq8M

Instrument Pilot Oral Exam Guide: Comprehensive preparation for the FAA checkride
Use this to pass your airline technical interview.

https://amzn.to/4qsb74f

Instrument Procedures Handbook
Your knowledge of instrument procedures is paramount when you are a professional pilot. This book is filled with potential interview questions and will be a great resource throughout your career.
https://amzn.to/45w9v1o

Everything Explained For The Professional Pilot 15th Edition
This is the ultimate reference for the professional pilot. The explanations are clear, illustrations helpful, and the historical context priceless. Whether getting ready for an interview or wanting to master advanced flight this book is a must for your bookshelf.

https://amzn.to/3YU3WWN

The Turbine Pilot’s Flight Manual 5th Edition

A must-have For those pilots beginning training at the airlines or simply wanting to expand their knowledge.
https://amzn.to/49kwBdJ

Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3C: Pilot Flight Training Study Guide (Color Print)
The FAA reference you will use for your entire aviation career from flying small planes to transitioning to multi-engine jets.
https://amzn.to/3KP5uhK

Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge

Many technical interview questions are derived from the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge and you will use this knowledge throughout your entire career flying.
https://amzn.to/4skvzWK

FAR-FC 2026: Federal Aviation Regulations for Flight Crew
The definitive reference for professional pilots flying for 121 and 135 operators.

https://amzn.to/4aqNXqy

FAR/AIM 2026: Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual
For the remainder of your career, you will be tested on your knowledge of the FARs and the information provided in the Aeronautical Information Manual. This is a manual you will want to highlight and tab pertinent pages.

https://amzn.to/3KRhkrF

Mental Math for Pilots: A Study Guide
Not just a study guide but a great resource for daily flying as a line pilot.

https://amzn.to/4jl95Ri

Aerospace Scholarships Guide – If you are looking at funding your education, flight training, or degree look at this definitive guide.

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

One On One Coaching:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/

Mentorship and Coaching Mastermind Group
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/

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Introduction
What is IOE?
What is different and how does that affect you?
The Gate Environment
Realism
There is no pause button and the conditions are not pre planned
Fatigue
Common Weak Points (And how to fix them)
Organization
Preparation
Situational Awareness (Staying Ahead of the airplane)
What if things go wrong?
Remain Calm… Anxiety will degrade performance
Own up to your shortcomings
Communicate if you are having trouble with something
Keep A positive attitude (Ego is the Enemy)
Summary of advise
Learning is additive
Control what you can control, be agile for the rest
Set your expectations accordingly – Perfectionism is the enemy
KEEP A POSITIVE ATTITUDE

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

Links Mentioned:

https://youtu.be/DvCm9FwTkjs
The Fatigued Pilot : Recognizing and Managing Fatigue
Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

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Are you dreaming of landing your ideal pilot job in 2026, but feel overwhelmed by the competition and changing hiring landscape? We’re breaking down exactly what it takes to stand out, offering insider insights and a clear roadmap to secure those highly sought-after positions. Don’t let your dream remain a dream.

The 2026 Pilot Landscape: What’s Changing?
Key Skills & Qualifications for 2026
Navigating the Application & Interview Process
Strategic Pathways to Your Dream Job
Landing the Offer: Salary, Benefits, and Beyond
What to do next
Take a step towards your career goal.

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/
Book of the month

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/recommended-reading/
Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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There are many ways you can pay for your flight training, but what is best for you? In today’s episode, we will dive into the many methods of funding your flight training with a few hacks you may never have thought of.

Pay Cash
Family and friends.
https://www.nerdwallet.com/taxes/learn/gift-tax-rate
Scholarships
It is worth the work. If you receive a $1,000 scholarship after 2 hours of work, that is $500 an hour.
We have the largest directory of scholarships on the internet with over 120 million, and for over a decade helping people find scholarships.
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/

Federal student loans
Normally associated with colleges and universities.
You will have to apply for Federal student aid through financial aid.
https://studentaid.gov
High school and college counselors can help.

Use your GI Bill

https://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/flight-training/

Private student loans.

https://finance.aopa.org/flight-training-finance
https://www.salliemae.com/student-loans/career-training-loan/flight-school-loans/
https://www.meritize.com
https://stratus.finance
https://www.flighttrainingfinancellc.com

Government sponsored
Most schools will list them on their website.
529 savings plans
Since this is new, contact your tax advisor first and coordinate with the flight school.
Thanks to the National Flight Training Alliance for their advocacy.

Sport Pilot Certificate
Sport Pilot Flight instructor.
Great for those not able to get a medical right away but know they will be eligible, career 2.0 who are older, want to use flight instruction to pay for their flight training, and want higher ratings.

Find the path and loan that is best for you.

We can help through our one-on-one and group mentorship. Stay motivated throughout mentorship.

Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coachingUse the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coachingSpecial: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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I was sold on the myth that you could not have an aviation career in your 30’s,boy where are they wrong! I did it and so can you. Now I help people of all ages transition to a career in aviation whether they are in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and more.

Are you wondering if you can transition careers in your 30’s? Already started along a path in your career and have had some success but not feeling fulfilled. This video is for you? If you are older than 30 this also will apply to you since these tools will help anyone wishing to transition to a new career.

This question is from the comments in our video “Can you do a video on your career transition in your 30s?”

For over 20 years we have helped many people realize their dream and create a career that is both personally and financially fulfilling. I was one of those people who changed my career in my 30’s so I know first hand what you are going through. I was sold on the myth that you could not have an aviation career in your 30’s,boy where are they wrong!

Define the why.
What do you dislike about your career?
What is your favorite thing about your career?
Look at this as more of a career progression
You are at a great time in your life having the energy and built many skills.
Are you eligible?
Medical
Background – work and residence.
Create a plan.
Challenges of changing careers in your 30’s
Your growing quickly in your career
Family are sceptical and want to know why
You just spent all this money on your current career.
You have already started building a family
Start your career now.
Things you can do right now and get paid in aviation.
Consider a career coach.
Join groups – be careful with the online negativity.
One on one coach.
Start today by taking one step to help you chart a path towards your career goal.

Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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During our coaching sessions we discuss a financial plan towards reaching your goal as a pilot. But now that you have achieved success in your career what is next? How do we have a more fulfilling life as an airline pilot but also how do we build wealth to help our family and others. This series was built to help you.

To increase your wealth, save and Invest to let your wealth grow.

Sounds simple but it is not easy.

You need tools and one is our book of the month https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/recommended-reading/

and our website https://wealthypilot.com

Increase your knowledge.
Listen to podcasts like this one.
Read books.
Recommended reading list under wealthy pilot:
Book of the month.
Millionaire Mission – A 9-Step System to Level-Up Your Finances and Build Wealth
Brian Preston From https://moneyguy.com (not a sponsor)
Find a career coach.
Find a business or financial coach.
I had a board of advisors when running my first large business.
Be slow to find a financial advisor that has your best interests in mind.
Consistently review your progress.
Make adjustments when necessary.
Implement new strategies cautiously
Building wealth is boring, simple, but not easy.
Takes Time and Discipline similar to becoming a pilot.
Being a pilot is a rewarding career and can lead to a wonderful retirement as long as you continually try to increase your knowledge and skills in both your flying and financial advice.
Here are some simple tools to increase your income.
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/acp391-how-to-make-a-million-a-year-as-an-airline-pilot/
Upgrade to Captain.
Learn the system.
Know your contract union or employment.
Work on your days off.
Business
Second job.
Fly more.
Let us help you build a path toward your aviation goal.

Links:

https://wealthypilot.com

Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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Social media and our friends can be full of negativity and bad advice so how do we navigate our way through this gauntlet of adversity? In this episode we will discuss how to prevent people you don’t even know or care about from stealing your aviation dream.

Mentorship:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the coupon code “CoachItForward” for the first month free.

One-On-One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special: One month of free access when you sign up for one-on-one coaching.

Recommended Reading:

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/recommended-reading/

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

Advice to keep positive in the field of negativity.

-Your friends many times only parrot what they hear in the media and online.
– share your dream with a small group of people.
– this is why I started the group coaching and mentorship.
– one size never fits everyone so stay away from the comments that no one and everyone.
– Sometimes we need to only discuss our dreams and ambitions with one person who understands the situation.
– You can’t choose your family and work associates but you can choose who to share your dreams with.
– you can also moderate which friends you share your dream with.
– some friends are social and some are true friends you can share dreams and ambitions with.

Generally it is best to stay off most social media. But that is easier said than done. So let’s talk about how to moderate your social media intake.

Social media advice:

-Facebook
– although there are some productive groups the discussions can devolve into negative vitriol and misinformation.
– good groups have consistent moderation and defined rules of conduct.
–
YouTube:
There is some great information but again you should view many videos and follow various people before you trust their dialog.
The comments can devolve quickly but are mostly moderated better.
LinkedIn:
A great resource because the commentators know they are being viewed by potential employers and what they post can negatively affect their career.
This is where the recruiters and employers converse.
Great resource for potential jobs, networking, and events.
Most people who are serious about their careers are part of LinkedIn.
Watch my video in our mentorship group about LinkedIn:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/take/group-career-coaching/texts/67392531-august-13-2025-8-pm-eastern-improve-your-linkedin-profile-and-industry-update
You can sign up and get one month free with coupon “CoachItForward”
Instagram:
Fun to follow and normally very positive.
You can find information about current events and career fairs.
Tick Tok:
Mostly targeted towards those just getting started in their life and careers.
Traditionally marketing toward a younger audience which may be beneficial to you.
X:
Primarily news.
Can be very political.