ACP437 Debunking the Myth: It’s NOT Too Late For An Aviation Career Past 30

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

ACP436 The Wealthy Pilot

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

ACP435 Don’t Let Anyone Steal Your Dream

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.

ACP434 Is A Jet Charter Broker Career Right For You?


Ever dreamed of a high-flying career that doesn’t involve piloting a plane? Imagine a world of private jets, exclusive clients, and limitless possibilities. But is the glamorous life of a jet charter broker truly for you? Joining me today is Lindsey Begnaud of https://justlandedjets.com/ to discuss the realities of this demanding yet rewarding aviation career.

to help us understand

A Sky-High View: What Exactly is a Jet Charter Broker?
– Dispelling common misconceptions about the role – it’s not just a glorified travel agent!
– The core function: connecting clients with private jets for bespoke travel experiences.
– Understanding the unique niche within the broader aviation industry.

Beyond the Brochure: The Reality of the Role
– The exhilarating highs: closing a big deal, satisfying demanding clients.
– The unexpected challenges: odd hours, complex logistics, and dealing with last-minute changes.
– Essential skills for success: negotiation, problem-solving, and building a robust network.

Your Path to Takeoff: Entry and Growth
– Education and background: what truly helps you stand out in 2025.
– Networking and mentorship: the unspoken keys to breaking into the industry.
– Career progression: from junior broker to opening your own brokerage.

The Financial Flight Plan: Earning Potential and Lifestyle
– Commission structures and how your income directly reflects your hustle.
– The often-glamorous, sometimes grueling, lifestyle of a jet charter broker.
– Long-term financial outlook and the stability of the private aviation market.

Is This Your Runway? Final Considerations
– Self-assessment: matching your personality and work ethic to the demands of the job.
– Future trends: how technology and sustainability are shaping the broker landscape.
– Making an informed decision: Is the thrill and challenge worth the dedication for you?

Links:

https://justlandedjets.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

This episode is sponsored by The Law Offices of Robert M. Strumor, LLC – you can find them at https://www.strumorlaw.com/

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

 

 

ACP433 MRO Career Opportunities And Why Choosing The Right Culture Is Important.

With a looming shortage of qualified mechanics, how will MROs and potential employees navigate the future hiring environment. You will be surprised by what you will discover as we discuss this and more with Elliott Aviation CEO Michael Parrish. Elliott Aviation has successfully been providing aircraft solutions including sales, FBO services, and more. Today we will focus on what an MRO does, how Elliott has built a successful business, and why culture is important when choosing a future employer.

Talking Points:
Introduction
· Brief personal story: starting as a mechanic, service in the Air Force, path to Elliott Aviation President.
· Passion for aviation and why culture matters now more than ever.
Building a Culture People Want to Work For
· Getting back to basics: respect, communication, and clear expectations.
· Investing in people: training, mentorship, and creating growth opportunities.
· Giving people a chance: spotting potential beyond a résumé.
· The difference between being busy and being effective.
· Paying it forward: how leaders can shape careers through support and opportunity.
· Empowering employees to make decisions and take ownership.
· Identifying talent and nurturing it over time.
· Relating to people at every level — from hangar floor to boardroom.
· Understanding and leveraging what different geographic locations bring — talent pools, local partnerships, and community strengths.
Industry Challenges and Opportunities
· Acknowledging the projected shortfall of qualified mechanics in the aviation industry.
· Strategies for attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market.
· How culture and opportunity make great career opportunities.
Career Opportunities at an MRO
· Aircraft mechanics and technicians.
· Crew chiefs leading projects and teams.
· Paint and interior specialists.
· Avionics technicians and installers.
· Engineers supporting modifications and upgrades.
· Support and administrative roles that keep the operation running.
Apprenticeships?
Closing Thoughts
· The role of culture in attracting and retaining the next generation of aviation professionals.
· Encouragement for anyone considering a career in aviation — there’s a place for many skills.

Links:

https://www.Elliottaviation.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-coaching
Special : One month free access when you sign up for 1 on 1 coaching.

Questions:

feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com

ACP432 Should I Send My Child To A Top Aviation University If They Want To Become a Pilot?

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.

ACP431 Why Professional Pilot Is A Great Career with CEO of Thrust Flight Academy Patrick Arnzen


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

ACP430 Low-Cost Airline Flight Attendant: A Day In The Life


Today Jill Fergusen joins us to discuss a day in the life of a low-cost flight attendant, showcasing the unique challenges and rewards of working for a budget airline. Jill Ferguson provides a realistic glimpse into the demanding yet often fulfilling world of flight attendants.

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

Talking Points:

A Day Begins: The Pre-Flight Rush
– Morning Routine
– Pre-Flight Preparations: Flight crew briefing, safety checks, and baggage loading, emphasize the fast-paced nature of the work.
– The Crew Room: Brief introduction of other crew members, showcasing the camaraderie and teamwork, with the emphasis on the tight schedule.

Taking Flight: The In-Flight Experience
– Safety First.
– Serving the Passengers: The challenges of serving passengers on budget flights, the differences in food and beverage service, the diverse range of passenger interactions, with a focus on time management and passenger management.
– The Unexpected.

The Rewards of the Job
– Traveling the World.
– Meeting New People.
– Making a Difference:.

The Final Word
– Summary of the challenges and rewards of being a low-cost flight attendant.
– Advice for Aspiring Flight Attendant
– Scholarships are available for flight attendants in our guide. Get one for free from our sponsor Stratus Financial.
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/scholarships/
– Share your own travel experiences or thoughts on the flight attendant profession in the comments below or e-mail us at 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/

Links:

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/flight-attendants.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

ACP429 Pilot Shortage or Hiring Spree: Here’s the Truth.


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

ACP428 What To Do If You Are Pulled Over For A DUI?


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

A Podcast about Achieving Your Aviation Career Goals