Episodes

  • Ep219 : ATP-CTP and Type Ratings: How Flight Training International Prepares You for Success

    Ep219 : ATP-CTP and Type Ratings: How Flight Training International Prepares You for Success
    Feb 17 2025
    ATP-CTP is a critical step toward becoming an airline pilot, but how do you prepare for it and make the most of your training? In this episode, Dan Wilborn from Flight Training International (FTI) breaks down what to expect in ATP-CTP, the importance of early preparation, and how FTI’s personalized approach helps pilots succeed. With training centers in Denver and Miami, FTI offers ATP-CTP courses twice a month, including academic instruction and hands-on experience in Boeing and Airbus simulators. Learn about the three key parts of ATP certification—ATP-CTP, the written exam, and the practical—and how to tailor your training to fit your goals. Plus, find out how to use military benefits like the GI Bill to fund your training and why investing in the right program can make all the difference in your career WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE What ATP-CTP training involves and how Flight Training International prepares pilots for success. The structure of ATP certification: ATP-CTP, the written exam, and the ATP practical. Why airlines value ATP-CTP and type ratings when evaluating candidates. How to prepare for ATP-CTP and the importance of backing up your time with early study. The benefits of training at FTI, including small class sizes, experienced instructors, and personalized support. How to use military benefits like the GI Bill to fund your ATP training. How to contact FTI for more information or to sign up for training. #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining
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    41 mins
  • Ep218: Flying with Wisdom: Why Prudence and Virtue Make You a Better Pilot

    Ep218: Flying with Wisdom: Why Prudence and Virtue Make You a Better Pilot
    Feb 13 2025
    Summary Good pilots don’t just react—they think ahead, assess risks, and make informed decisions. In this episode, we explore the role of prudence in aviation and why careful judgment is essential for flight safety. From preflight planning to in-flight decision-making, pilots must use reason, logic, and experience rather than impulse or emotion. Threat and error management, following procedures, and using crew resources are all part of being a prudent pilot. But prudence isn’t just about safety—it’s also a key trait of great leaders. Learn how developing this virtue can earn you trust and respect in aviation and beyond. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE What prudence means in aviation and why it’s essential for safe flying. How careful planning, risk assessment, and thoughtful judgment improve decision-making. The role of threat and error management in preventing accidents. Why following procedures, using crew resources, and avoiding unnecessary risks make you a better pilot. How prudence translates into leadership and helps build trust and respect. Why pilots are held to a higher standard and must continually develop their judgment and decision-making skills.

    #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining
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    10 mins
  • Ep217: Earning your ATP and Type Rating: The Preparation, the Challenges and Keys to Success

    Ep217: Earning your ATP and Type Rating: The Preparation, the Challenges and Keys to Success
    Feb 10 2025
    Getting your ATP is just the beginning—standing out in today’s competitive airline hiring process requires preparation, professionalism, and the right mindset. In this episode, Jimmy shares his journey from helicopter pilot to airline hire, including the challenges of ATP training and earning his A320 type rating. He discusses the intense training schedule, the high expectations, and the importance of being fully prepared. Learn how to study effectively, use chair flying techniques, and work with a sim partner to maximize your success. Discover how the ATP serves as the final gate, ensuring that you have the skills, knowledge, and professionalism needed to operate at an airline level before stepping into the cockpit as a commercial pilot. Plus, hear how getting your type rating will open more doors for you and help set you apart in airline hiring. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE Jimmy’s transition from helicopter pilot to airline hire and his ATP training experience. Why ATP is just the minimum and how type ratings can make you stand out. The intense demands of ATP training, including the schedule, workload, and check ride challenges. How to prepare effectively, including study resources, chair flying, and working with a sim partner. Why some pilots fail ATP training and how to avoid common mistakes. The importance of professionalism—looking the part, executing well, and standing out in interviews. How earning his ATP and type rating changed his job opportunities and led to airline offers.
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Ep216 - Following Wes’s Journey: From Setbacks to Success on the Path to Becoming an Airline Pilot

    Ep216 - Following Wes’s Journey: From Setbacks to Success on the Path to Becoming an Airline Pilot
    Feb 6 2025
    Summary What does it take to turn setbacks into stepping stones on the path to becoming an airline pilot? In this episode, we follow Wes’s inspiring journey as he navigates the challenges of flight training. After facing struggles during his first instrument check ride, Wes learned the power of perseverance, humility, and support from those around him. He shares how additional training and guidance helped him pass on his second attempt and become a stronger pilot. Now working on his commercial certificate while balancing family and work, Wes highlights the importance of resilience, networking, and continuing to push forward toward his airline career. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE Wes’s experience with his first instrument check ride, including his mistakes and how he learned from them. The emotional impact of failure and the importance of owning up to mistakes to improve. How having a strong support system can make a difference in tough times. The value of additional training and mentorship from experienced CFII instructors. Lessons learned from passing his check ride on the second attempt and how it made him a better pilot. How Wes balances the demands of flight training, work, and family life. Why networking and attending conferences are essential for anyone pursuing an airline career.
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    51 mins
  • Ep215 Tragedy and Reflection: Honoring the PSA Crew and Cherishing Those Around Us

    Ep215 Tragedy and Reflection: Honoring the PSA Crew and Cherishing Those Around Us
    Feb 3 2025
    Summary

    The aviation industry was shaken by the recent PSA Airlines accident involving a military helicopter, leaving many with concerns and deep sadness for the families affected. In this episode, Nik addresses the realities of aviation safety, the emotions surrounding such tragedies, and the importance of supporting one another in difficult times. This is a reminder to cherish the people around us and never take a moment for granted.

    WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
    • Reflections on the PSA Airlines accident and its impact on the aviation community.
    • Addressing concerns about safety and the state of the industry.
    • The emotional toll of aviation tragedies and the importance of supporting affected families.
    • A reminder to appreciate and love the people close to you every day.
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    2 mins
  • Episode 214 - Breaking Through the Clouds: How to Stand Out as a Pilot

    Episode 214 - Breaking Through the Clouds: How to Stand Out as a Pilot
    Jan 30 2025

    Summary:

    What does it take to not just become a pilot, but to truly excel and make a difference in the aviation world? In this episode Nik explores the key strategies for breaking out and standing out in the competitive field of aviation. We delve into the importance of making an impact during flight training, how that builds your network, and the profound impact of mentorship. Discover how even small acts of support can create ripples of positive change and help your career takeoff. Learn why creating your own opportunities, giving back to the aviation community, and building a strong network of fellow pilots will help you find success.

    WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:

    * The crucial role of hard work and dedication during flight training and how it sets the foundation for a successful career.

    * Practical strategies for building and leveraging a strong professional network in the aviation industry.

    * The immense value of mentorship and how helping other pilots can elevate your own career.

    * How small acts of kindness and support can have a significant impact on the aviation community.

    * Effective methods for creating your own opportunities and taking control of your career trajectory.

    * The importance of giving back to the aviation community through involvement in organizations.

    * Strategies for building a supportive and collaborative community of pilots around you.
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    10 mins
  • Episode 213 - Behind the Scenes of Flight Operations: Harry Yi’s Path from National Guard Pilot to Dispatcher

    Episode 213 - Behind the Scenes of Flight Operations: Harry Yi’s Path from National Guard Pilot to Dispatcher
    Jan 27 2025

    How do you balance a love for flying with a desire for more family time? In this episode, Harry Yi, a Medivac helicopter pilot in the National Guard, shares his journey to becoming an airline dispatcher. Learn how dispatchers play a vital role in flight operations, offering pilots critical support and planning. From dispatch training and certification to union benefits, pay, and career paths, Harry explains what it takes to succeed. Plus, he reflects on balancing a dual career as a Guard pilot with a civilian career, offering practical tips for managing proficiency, currency, and career progression.

    WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE

    • Harry Yi’s career shift from National Guard Medivac pilot to airline dispatcher and why he made the change.

    • How dispatchers support pilots with planning, recommendations, and critical flight information.

    • Insights into the training process for dispatchers, including coursework and the checkride-style final exam.

    • The role of unions, pay structures, and career paths in airline dispatching, from regional airlines to major carriers.

    • The hiring process for dispatchers, including HR, technical, and situational interviews, as well as knowledge exams.

    • What it’s like balancing a flying career in the National Guard or Reserves with a civilian career.

    • Tips for maintaining proficiency, currency, and work-life balance while navigating dual aviation careers.

    #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Episode 211 - YES: It makes the world work.

    Episode 211 - YES: It makes the world work.
    Jan 23 2025

    Join Nik as he goes deep into the power of words. On your road to success you’ll have plenty of No’s. Everytime you turn around it seems like no one will say yes. You’ll find people telling you that you don’t have enough experience. Not enough hours. Not the right type rating. They aren’t hiring. You missed the hiring wave. Today, learn how to turn those no’s into “Not yet” or even “YES!” Stay the course and get ready for success!!!
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    8 mins