Taking Flight: Advice for New Graduates Pursuing A Career in Aviation
Capt. Sully Sullenberger
Keynote Speaker | Safety Expert | Author | Pilot | Former U.S. Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization
Now, more than ever, it is an opportune time to consider a career in aviation. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that this profession is not without its share of challenges that require diligent preparation and training.
During my own formative years as a pilot, I quickly realized that theory alone could not prepare me for the real-world challenges that aviation presents. It was through facing these trials head-on that I gained the experience and understanding of the inherent risks and developed the judgment necessary to navigate the skies with confidence and skill.
Now, I would like to share some valuable lessons that I believe will serve as guiding principles for a young pilot’s journey. These pieces of advice have been shaped by my own experiences - both successes and failures.
- Stay updated with industry advancements: Aviation is a rapidly evolving field, with new technologies, regulations, and best practices emerging constantly. Staying updated can help young pilots to always be vigilant and not complacent. As a pilot, it is imperative to always be aware of your situation and be actively looking for things that might go wrong—and think about how you would handle those things. Know that one day you will face some kind of a challenge, but also know that if you are a continuous learner, constantly striving for excellence, you will have prepared yourself for these challenges more thoroughly than you realize.
- Consider specialized roles and pursue advanced certifications: In the dynamic field of aviation, there's more than one path to a fulfilling career. While becoming a pilot has traditionally been a popular choice, there are numerous specialized roles that offer equally rewarding opportunities. Explore fields such as aviation management, air traffic control, aerospace engineering, aviation maintenance, aviation law, aviation safety, and airline operations. Additionally, consider enhancing your qualifications by pursuing advanced certifications, specialized training programs, safety certifications, or advanced degrees in aviation-related fields. Broaden your horizons and embrace the diverse avenues available to excel in the aviation industry.
- Embrace the team around you: Whatever you strive to achieve in life, it's important to recognize that success rarely comes from individual efforts alone. Embrace the ideas of others, listen attentively, and have the humility to admit mistakes and learn from them. It is through collaboration and acknowledging our shared humanity that we can overcome challenges and accomplish remarkable feats. As a pilot, I am acutely aware that my success in this profession would not have been possible without the support of my invaluable team, including flight attendants, air traffic controllers, maintenance technicians, and countless others who serve and contribute to the safe operation of aircraft.
- Find a mentor within the industry: There are several avenues you can explore when seeking a mentor. To begin, leverage your existing network to identify potential mentors who may already be within your professional circle. Additionally, consider joining aviation associations and organizations that cater to your specific field, such as the International Society of Women Airline Pilots or Young Aviation Professionals. These groups provide opportunities to connect with experienced individuals who can offer guidance and support. Online platforms like LinkedIn can also be valuable in expanding your network and connecting with industry professionals. Lastly, don't hesitate to reach out to aviation schools and training centers, as they may have resources or connections to mentors willing to offer their expertise.?
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By utilizing these approaches, you can increase your chances of finding a mentor who can guide you on your career journey. ?
Whether you are a recent graduate embarking on your first professional adventure or an experienced individual seeking a change, I encourage you to explore the promising opportunities within the aviation industry. It is a realm where passion meets purpose and where the desire to explore merges with the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of safety.?
As you navigate your career path, remember to stay curious, be open to new challenges, and cultivate a strong network of like-minded professionals.?
Managing Director (Associate Partner) @ AVICO Group | Aviation Management, Commercial Aircraft Management, Passenger and Cargo Charters, ACMI.
1 å¹´Would you add glider / soaring experience as part of early pilot training?
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1 å¹´Nice one Capt. Sully Sullenberger
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1 å¹´Great advice, you are never to old to learn or take advice.
General Aviation
1 å¹´At a wedding reception a year ago, a young man was usurer over to meet me by a relative. He spoke of desiring to make Aviation his career. In his mid 30's he spoke of being 'in' training for a private pilot rating at a local school. Listening to his hopes, I recalled the things Sully just pointed out as the challenges this younger man will face. Legacy - Not necessarily today, but in past years young men 18 or 19 would be rated as a private pilot and perhaps have some advanced standing due to their family ties. The father or close relative may have been the mentor of the young fledgling perhaps permitting him to fly with the more senior pilot or instructor. Physical - While our generation is working longer now. Physical demands for a pilot have increased due to a more complex and dense traffic situation for the major airlines. At 30 a potential pilot may find themselves being considered second to a younger applicant. Decision - I was literally born looking up. At 3 I was identifying aircraft of the newly formed Air Force from the ground and repeating their nomenclature to my parents. Still, I didn't earn my private pilots rating until in college. At 22 I found myself 'an old man' among candidates with a flying parent.