NHCFAE Podcast

Transportation Federal Credit Union: Supporting Financial Growth in Aviation Careers

Welcome back to the NHCFAE Podcast — where we highlight leaders, trailblazers, and innovators shaping the future of aviation and transportation. In this special Sponsorship Series episode, host Karen Perez sits down with Sharmaine Bucknor, Chief Marketing Officer at Transportation Federal Credit Union, to discuss the power of financial empowerment, education, and generational wealth within the aviation and transportation community.  In this episode, you’ll learn: * The difference between credit unions vs. traditional banks * How TFCU supports financial wellness & stability * Strategies for building credit, saving money, and reducing debt * Why financial education is critical for underserved communities * How programs like Dare to Soar are inspiring the next generation in aviation * Tips for students and professionals to build strong financial habits early TFCU has been serving members for over 85 years, helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals through lower rates, fewer fees, and personalized financial guidance.    Whether you’re a student, professional, or aviation enthusiast — this episode gives you practical tools to take control of your financial future.  Learn more about TFCU: https://www.transfcu.org [https://www.transfcu.org/]  Connect with NHCFAE: https://www.nhcfae.org [https://www.nhcfae.org/]  Don’t forget to:  Like  Comment  Subscribe Join us as we continue to grow, lead, and shape the future of aviation together.

Career Series: Air Traffic Controller Journey

In this episode of the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE) Career Series Podcast, we sit down with Ariel Ortega, a Certified Professional Controller with the FAA and former United States Marine Corps Air Traffic Control Specialist. Ariel shares her inspiring journey—from joining the military at just 17 years old to building a successful career in air traffic control. She discusses her experiences working at multiple FAA facilities, adapting to different environments, and transitioning from military life to the civilian workforce. We also dive into:  How she discovered air traffic control  The transition from the United States Marine Corps to the Federal Aviation Administration  Cultural experiences from working in places like Japan  The importance of mentorship, leadership, and union support  Advice for students interested in aviation careers If you’re considering a career in aviation—or simply want to hear a powerful story of growth, resilience, and leadership—this episode is for you.  Interested in aviation careers, mentorship, or scholarships? Visit: https://www.nhcfae.org [https://www.nhcfae.org/]  Don’t forget to:  Like  Comment  Subscribe for more aviation career insights

Career Series: Bridging Design and Operations — Service in Aviation Infrastructure Engineering

Ever wondered who keeps the aviation system running behind the scenes? In this episode of the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE) Career Series Podcast, host Freidy Lazala sits down with Elsy Hernández, a Resident Engineer with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to explore a critical—but often overlooked—career in aviation. Elsy shares how she helps coordinate major infrastructure upgrades at Air Route Traffic Control Centers, ensuring operations continue safely while modernizing essential systems. From managing contractors to working alongside air traffic operations, her role is a powerful blend of engineering, communication, and leadership. * What a Resident Engineer (Field Engineer) does in aviation * The difference between Air Route Traffic Control Centers vs. airport towers * How large-scale FAA infrastructure projects are planned and executed * Why human factors + engineering are critical in aviation systems * Elsy’s career journey—from mechanical engineering to the FAA * Advice for students exploring careers in aviation & engineering Aviation isn’t just pilots and flight attendants—there’s a whole world of engineers working behind the scenes to keep the system safe, efficient, and evolving.   Explore opportunities, mentorship, and scholarships with NHCFAE: https://www.nhcfae.org [https://www.nhcfae.org] Like | Comment | Share Subscribe for more aviation career insights and industry conversations What You’ll Learn: Key Takeaway: Interested in Aviation Careers?

Career Series: Aviation Management — Building an Aviation Legacy

In this episode of the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE) Career Series Podcast, host Freidy Lazala sits down with aviation leader Jean Carlo Droz Brenes to explore his inspiring journey through aviation. With over 17 years of experience, Jean shares how his passion for aviation began at just 15 years old in Puerto Rico and evolved into a career spanning pilot training, air traffic control, and now airline dispatch. He breaks down:  The many career paths in aviation beyond pilots and controllers  The power of networking and mentorship through NHCFAE  How leadership roles and student involvement shaped his career  Transitioning from federal service to new opportunities in the private sector  The importance of diversity and encouraging women in aviation  What airline dispatchers actually do (and why they’re critical to safety) Jean also shares powerful life lessons, including his mindset:  “The GPS never says you’re wrong… it says recalculating.” This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in aviation careers, leadership growth, or expanding their professional network.  Learn more about NHCFAE: http://www.nhcfae.org [http://www.nhcfae.org/]  Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring aviation stories!

ICAO Career Pathways: Opportunities in Global Aviation

In this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, we explore the global side of aviation with special guest Josue Gonzalez from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Josue shares his journey from the FAA to ICAO, giving an inside look at how global aviation operates across 193 member states. From international standards to career pathways, this conversation breaks down how aviation stays safe, efficient, and connected worldwide—and how YOU can be part of it.  What you’ll learn in this episode: * What ICAO is and its role in global aviation * How international aviation standards are developed * Real-world career opportunities beyond the FAA * How to apply for ICAO roles, internships, and secondments * The importance of networking, influence, and relationships * Why being multilingual (Spanish/French) gives you an edge * Career advice for students, professionals, and aspiring leaders  ICAO Career Pathways & Opportunities (Shared by our guest during the episode)  ICAO Careers Portal https://careers-new.icao.int/web/icao/vacancies [https://careers-new.icao.int/web/icao/vacancies]  Internship Opportunities https://www.icao.int/internship-opportunities [https://www.icao.int/internship-opportunities]  Secondment Opportunities https://www.icao.int/secondment-opportunities [https://www.icao.int/secondment-opportunities] These opportunities are available for students, early-career professionals, and experienced experts looking to make an impact in global aviation.  Key takeaway from Josue: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your lane—your unique experience is valuable.”  Learn more about NHCFAE: https://www.nhcfae.org [https://www.nhcfae.org/]  Don’t forget to:  Like  Comment your biggest takeaway  Subscribe for more aviation career insights