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Hi Carl,

We truly enjoy your excellent podcasts and have learned a great deal about the aviation industry through them. As parents, we greatly value your expert insights, which have helped us better understand the pilot career path.

Do you feel that airline recruiters value an aviation management degree from a UND, Embry-Riddle type aviation college, compared to a traditional bachelor’s in business degree with pilot training from an independent flight school?

Also, in your view, does earning an aviation degree from a top aviation university provide meaningful advantages for aspiring pilots, not only in securing their first airline position, but also in building a long-term career through the strength of alumni connections and professional networks?

Questions e-mail me us: feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

Pros:

Large alumni network.
The more graduates the bigger the network.
Greater depth of knowledge.
Greater Opportunities to move into management.
Pilot recruiting events on campus.
Flight Team. https://www.nifa.aero/
Some cadet programs are only available to Universities.
Even with high costs is one of the most productive degrees.
A degree is preferred.
Diverse training environment.
Labs smaller schools cannot afford: altitude chambers, meteorology department, aviation maintenance department.
Quickly Pay off student loans over a ten year period due to high airline pilot salaries. Over 300k for a major airline captain.

Cons:

Cost and large student loans.
Infinite return on your investment if you don’t get a degree and get hired with a major.
An aviation degree is not a requirement for the airlines.
There are many colleges not in the top 10 with large networks.
Paying off student loans is a challenge due to the low starting salaries.
– Scholarships are available for many colleges and for training in our guide. Get one for free from our sponsor Stratus Financial.
– https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/

Should I Send My Child To A Top Aviation University If They Want To Become a Pilot?

What do you think?
feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com
It really depends on your eventual goal. The majority of people flying at the airlines come from various backgrounds and have a variety of degrees and some without degrees.

Our clients get hired https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/

Links:

Monthly Group Coaching:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com or comment below.

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With pilot demand still surging and college alternatives gaining traction, professional flight training has quietly become one of the highest-upside career paths in America as people are rethinking what a “good career” looks like. Joining me today to discuss this is Patrick Arnzen, CEO of Thrust Flight Academy. Patrick is a former airline pilot, and designated pilot examiner (DPE) since 2012. Patrick has built and run several aviation businesses over the course of his career and wants to share his passion and knowledge of aviation with you.

Talking Points:

How Patrick developed his passion for aviation.
What does a “good career” look like?
A direct line to a respected, high-paying career

No four-year degree required

A clear sense of purpose, structure, and progression

As traditional college becomes more expensive and less reliable, more young adults and career changers are seeking careers that offer structure, fulfillment, and real upward mobility.

How aviation became one of the most respected, blue-collar-meets-white-collar (grey collar) jobs that doesn’t require a college degree.

What draws people in: from 19-year-olds fresh out of high school, to HVAC techs in their 50s, and how aviation gives them a sense of identity and momentum

Why success in flight training has less to do with raw talent, and more to do with mindset, consistency, and grit.

Closing thoughts and contact information.

Links:

https://www.thrustflight.com

Mentorship:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coachingSpecial : One month free access when you sign up for 1 on 1 coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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Are pilots truly facing a shortage, or is the aviation industry actually on a hiring spree in 2025? Forget what you think you know about flying careers. We’re cutting through the noise to reveal the surprising truth about pilot jobs and what it means for your future in the cockpit.

Question from our Group Coaching Mentorship.
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/
Get one month free using the coupon “CoachItForward”

Talking Points:

There are cycles of hiring and furloughs and we are in a positive hiring update.
There will be another shortage of pilots where we will have difficulty finding qualified pilots again and are heading in that direction.
Some symptoms are Street captains with forced upgrades.
Feeling Good After Q2 results.
Airlines are concentrating on core strengths.
Removing unprofitable flying.
Adding profitable routes.
Market share alone does not grow an airline – profitable market share grows an airline.
Low cost airlines are changing direction offering premium products.
Low cost airlines are removing much of the unprofitable flying, increasing profits of more established and legacy airlines.
Now that airlines are hiring again, how do I make myself more competitive?

Mentorship:

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

One On One Coaching:

https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special : One month free access when you sign up for 1 on 1 coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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As a career pilot, we try to protect our job through prudent planning, budgeting, and training. I often get asked questions about what to do when pulled over by the police to protect our pilot certificate and career. Should I take the sobriety test or not?

To help me answer this question Chris Pezalla is an attorney with the sponsor of this episode, the Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC. In addition to being an attorney, Chris is an airline pilot flying the Boeing 777 around the world.

Talking Points:

If I am pulled over and asked to take a sobriety test, what should I do?

Be professional and truthful. Anything you say can end up in a police report.

Always take the breathalyzer and blood tests. This advice is specific to pilots.

Failing to get a BAC alcohol level recorded will cost you your medical certificate.

Even if pleading guilty to the DUI, get a blood alcohol test.

14 C.F.R. § 61.15(e), which mandates that all Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Ground Instructors certified under FAR Part 61 to report any Motor Vehicle Action (MVA) related to drugs or alcohol to the FAA in writing within 60 calendar days.

The 60-day period begins when your driver’s license is suspended.

What is a roadside suspension?

Can I wait until after my court case to file the 60-day report? (No)

Considerations for Light Sport, BasicMed, and Class III medical.

Reporting on your next and all future medical applications.
This is not the end of your career.

Links:
www.strumorlaw.com
https://www.strumorlaw.com/Resources.asp

Book of the Month:

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

Ego Is The Enemy (referral link helps support the podcast)

https://amzn.to/46vEjkq

Monthly Group Coaching:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special : One month free access when you sign up for 1 on 1 coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

I went direct to a LCC after instructing, had two years of little flying and then furlough… after 9 months furloughed managed to get on with a regional. I have a young family so I wasn’t too keen on cargo as an option, yet didn’t quite have the resume for mainline. Was a regional the right choice?

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Talking Points:

You are not alone.
Others have done the same.
Don’t let ego get in the way of your career.
Ego is the enemy book of the month.
We sometimes take a step back to again move forward.
After 9/11 many mainline pilots flew at the regionals.
Some pilots refused jobs because they were beneath them.
I sent hundreds of pilots to a commuter that had turboprops and almost every one declined the job since they were regional pilots.
My class at the largest regional airline in the US had 80% from the majors.
You are gaining valuable hours towards your next career step.
You are flying 121 in the system which is putting you ahead of your peers and will help in an upcoming interview.
Always look at your own personal situation and don’t listen to others.
Do what is best for you and your family.
Trying to determine if you are making the right decision? Consult with your family, mentor, or career coach.

Links:

Book of the Month:

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

Ego Is The Enemy
https://amzn.to/46vEjkq

Monthly Group Coaching:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special : One month free access when you sign up for 1 on 1 coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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Question from our Group Coaching Mentorship.
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/
Get one month free using the coupon “CoachItForward”

I am currently a CFI, sitting at around 700 TT. I have a friend whom I trained and studied with in flight school, and he wants me to take an ATP CTP course soon with him.

My question is, is it viable to take the ATP CTP course on my own dime these days? I know that it would make me more competitive, but I always thought that the airlines, more or less, always would pay for it when hired.

Talking Points:

The market has changed.
Concentrate on building hours first then as you get closer to 1500 think about ATP/CTP.
Is the deal with your friend a great deal compared to if you wait.
The airlines don’t always pay for the ATP/CTP when hired, especially in a competitive market.
Qualifications for jobs always change.
We must change with the market.
Book of the month : Who Moved My Cheese: an amazing way of dealing with change in your workplace.
Check it out in our recommended reading list: https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/recommended-reading/
I recommend waiting until before you start applying to the airlines because the market can change.
Remember to never use the term Always when talking about the airlines and any other business.
Things always change and we have a way to help you navigate that change through our coaching services at https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/
Special: One month free access to our mentorship program when you sign up for a one on one coaching session.

Links:

Monthly Group Coaching:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching
Special : One month free access when you sign up for 1 on 1 coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

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Your dream of becoming a pilot has been put on hold due to a deferred medical. This video explores the different paths you can take, from reapplying for your medical to pursuing alternative aviation careers.The experiences I relate in this video come from my over 2 decades of helping pilots navigate an aviation career path and overcome challenges. To find out more about our individual and group coaching visit https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/

Talking Points:

The Reality of Deferred Medicals
– It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you through this challenging time.
Before you go to your medical if you think you might have a condition that could cause a deferral or denial consult with an AME before the application.
– Receiving a deferred medical is a devastating blow to any aspiring pilot.
– how to discover if your medical may be deferred.
– CACI and worksheets will help you discover if you might be deferred.
-Conditions AMEs Can Issue
– https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/certification_ws
– https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/resources/
– The FAA’s medical certification process can be complicated and stressful, and a deferred medical is often the result of a medical condition that requires further review and investigation.
Understanding the Process
– It’s crucial to understand why your medical was deferred and what steps you need to take to get it cleared.
– The FAA will issue a letter outlining the reasons for the deferral, and you’ll need to follow the instructions provided to obtain the required medical documentation.
– This might involve visiting specialists, undergoing further testing, or providing additional information about your medical history.
Exploring Your Options
– Reapplying for your medical is often the first step, but you might need to address the underlying medical condition before your application is approved.
– Consider seeking guidance from an aviation medical examiner (AME) who can provide personalized advice and support throughout the process.
– We recommend AMAS.
– Depending on your specific circumstances, you might need to explore other options, such as seeking a waiver from the FAA, obtaining a special issuance medical certificate, or pursuing a different career path.
Alternative Aviation Careers
– A deferred medical doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your aviation dreams, there are many other rewarding careers in the aviation industry that don’t require a first-class medical certificate.
– These include roles in air traffic control, aircraft maintenance, aviation management, or flight instruction (with appropriate restrictions).
– We have discussed many of these in our past episodes.
– Researching and exploring these alternative career paths can help you stay involved in aviation while you work towards resolving your medical deferral.
Staying Positive and Motivated
– It’s important to stay positive and motivated throughout the process, even when things feel challenging.
– Join our Mentorship Group Coaching to stay motivated: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
– Connect with other pilots who have faced similar situations, and share your experiences and learn from their journeys.
– Remember that your passion for aviation is what drives you, and it’s worth fighting for your dream, even if it takes time and effort.

Links:

https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide

Monthly Group Coaching:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

During our last group coaching mentorship I gave a mid-year hiring update and in today’s episode I wanted to share some information from that session and also give you an update and advice on what you can do to get hired in 2025 and beyond.

https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/

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Talking Points:

The State of Pilot Hiring in 2025
– The resurgence of air travel after the pandemic led to an initial boom in pilot hiring, but the market is moderating for many reasons including Boeing aircraft delivery delays and Pratt Whitney engine issues.
– Some Regional airlines are still facing significant hiring challenges as they struggle to attract and retain pilots.
This is due to unattractive equipment (planes), contracts, and pilot bases.
– Major airlines are reporting a more balanced hiring environment, focusing on experience and specific skills.

The Competitive Landscape
– Increased pilot demand has fueled competition, leading to a rise in specialized training programs and pilot academies.
Look at growth of ATP-CTP programs and flight school growth and consolidation.
– Digital platforms and online communities have become essential for networking and finding opportunities.
One of the best is LinkedIn. We will be doing another session in our group coaching and mentorship.
– The industry shifted towards data-driven recruitment processes and online assessment tools.

Essential Skills and Qualifications
– Technical proficiency remains paramount, including a strong understanding of aviation regulations and safety protocols.
– Adaptability and resilience are crucial for navigating the aviation industry.

Overcoming the Challenges
– Networking and building relationships are critical for securing a pilot position, especially through attending industry events and engaging with recruiters.
– Staying updated with the latest technology and advancements in aviation is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.
– Consider diversifying your skill set by exploring related fields like flight instructing or aviation management to expand career options.

The Future of Pilot Jobs
– The industry is expected to see continued growth, driven by increasing global travel demand.
https://www.boeing.com/commercial/market/pilot-technician-outlook#overview
-About 18,500 openings for airline and commercial pilots are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
– https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-1
– Technological advancements such as automation and autonomous flight have already reshaped the pilot role.
Glass cockpit and complex automated systems with computer interfaces must be understood during normal and non normal flight.
– Pilots with a strong foundation in technology and leadership will be best positioned to navigate the future of aviation.

Don’t let short term market fluctuations discourage you. A one or two year slow down is a small fraction of your 40 year career. This is a marathon not a spring so take action every day to move toward your career goa and don’t let these small changes in hiring stop you from moving forward.
Join our group coaching and mentorship session and get the first month free using coupon “CoachItForward”

Links:

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm

Monthly Group Coaching:

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

One On One Coaching:
https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com
Visit Our Sponsor Stratus Financial

Aviation Careers Podcast is sponsored by Stratus Financial – Where Dreams Take Flight. Stratus Financial offers loans for pilot training, and they understand your needs because they are pilots! You can find more at https://stratus.finance/

Whether financing your dream of flying or simplifying the process by taking care of your student loans, their efficient, hassle-free funding can connect you to the life of your dreams of becoming a professional pilot sooner than you ever thought possible! To find out more, click here: https://stratus.finance

As a sponsor of this podcast, Stratus Financial is giving away scholarship guides, and you can get yours for free using the coupon code “Stratus” when you visit https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/free/