Podcast with DPS | Episode 25.7

AnywhereATP | Episode 26.5

This episode features Jon "Gumby" and Loren "Ox" discussing innovative pathways for military veterans and pilots to transition into civilian aviation careers. They cover flight training, maintenance certification, GI Bill utilization, and industry connections, providing valuable insights for veterans planning their next steps.

Logbooks with Nik Fialka | Episode 26.2

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you...Sir Nik Fialka. In this episode, hosts discuss recent industry changes, logbook best practices, and strategies for aspiring pilots navigating the airline application process. Featuring insights from Nik Fialka, a seasoned pilot and host of Ready for Pushback, the conversation offers practical advice on time logging, application timing, and contingency planning.00:00 The Importance of Accurate Logbooks01:00 The Role of Rumors in Aviation07:07 Clarifying Logbook Practices14:12 Contingency Planning in Aviation Careers28:17 The Importance of Proper Documentation29:01 Navigating Logbooks: A Personal Journey30:57 The Legalities of Flight Time Logging33:48 Understanding Logbook Requirements36:51 The Value of Digital Logbooks38:29 Best Practices for Flight Time Documentation40:40 Attention to Detail in Aviation42:34 Cross-Country Flight Time Logging44:27 Logging Night Flight Time53:13 Understanding Turbine Time in Aviation55:46 Logging PIC Time Effectively01:00:10 When to Apply for Airline Positions

Catch-up with Dan Podcast | Episode 26.1

Happy New Year! Our first episode of the year is Landon catching up with Dan. Dan was on another podcast episode 8 months ago where him and Sam went from zero to A320 type complete in only 7 months! This episode goes over where Dan is now, why he made the decisions he made, and how you can strategize to ensure your career is one that fits best for you.

Podcast with Flex Air | Episode 25.8

Guests: Cameron Kenning & Eddie Erdmann, Flex Air In this episode, Landon speaks with Cameron and Eddie from Flex Air, a veteran-focused aviation training organization offering SkillBridge opportunities, A&P pipelines, and flight training programs. Both guests share their transition stories, the structure of Flex Air’s mentorship model, and realistic insights on the aviation industry for maintainers and pilots alike.   Whether you’re a crew chief thinking about becoming an A&P, a service member preparing for SkillBridge, or a veteran exploring pilot training, this episode delivers clarity, encouragement, and real-world guidance. A veteran-centric approach focused on flexibility, mentorship, and real opportunity—not just flight hours.   CFIs, base managers, and veteran mentors work together to support students through aviation training and transition.   Flex Air has placed orders for all-electric trainers and discusses what this means for pilots and mechanics.   Flex Air’s recent wins, including: * AOPA Best Flight School (Pacific Region) * Textron Top Flight School, receiving a brand-new 2025 Cessna 172 These honors reflect training quality and student satisfaction.   How crew chiefs and other aviation MOSs convert military experience toward an FAA A&P certificate: * 8610 authorization * Experience gap training (recips, magnetos, sheet metal, fabric, etc.) * Hands-on apprenticeship under Cameron * 10-day prep course for written/oral/practical exams Funding options discussed (COOL, VR&E, etc.).   Flexible schedules around medical appointments, family needs, and out-processing. Even partial SkillBridge participation can accelerate your transition significantly.   Breakdown of: * Rotor Transition Program (fast multi-engine track) * Zero-time to commercial pilot pathway * Fleet overview (Cessna 172s, G1000-equipped aircraft, Beech Travel Air) * 141 vs. 61 options and how Flex Air helps track your time requirements.   Flex Air proactively books checkrides ~6 weeks out, helping students avoid the nationwide DPE bottleneck.   Discussion includes: * The projected AMP shortage through 2028 * Increased cert numbers for separating military maintainers * Pilot hiring cycles and long-term opportunity * Why now is still the right time to train if aviation is your goal.   Notable alumni—like Tim Kirschbaugh and Jason Duvernay—who trained at Flex Air and now fly for legacy carriers.   * “Veterans are extremely coachable and take critique better than almost anyone.” * “Flex Air’s measure of success isn’t hours flown—it’s opportunities created.” * “SkillBridge isn’t about completing everything; it’s about gaining a massive head start.” * “There is no A&P slowdown. The industry needs maintainers more than ever.” * “Pilot hiring is cyclical—train now and be ready for the next surge.” For SkillBridge, A&P pathways, flight training, or general transition guidance, Flex Air offers tailored support for veterans at every stage.

Podcast with DPS | Episode 25.7

🎙️ Breakturn Podcast – Inside Delta Professional Services (DPS) & ATP-CTP Training Episode Overview In this episode, the Breakturn team visits Delta HQ in Atlanta to sit down with Rochelle Kanianthra (General Manager, Atlanta Operations) and Jim Leonard (ATP-CTP Instructor, former Marine Corps and Delta pilot). Together, they dive deep into Delta Professional Services (DPS), the ATP Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP), and what makes DPS’s program unique for transitioning military and civilian pilots.From insider perspectives on airline training, to GI Bill benefits, simulator experiences, and new scholarship opportunities, this episode is packed with value for anyone looking to advance their aviation career. 👥 Guests Jim Leonard – Retired Marine aviator, 23-year Delta captain, now leading ATP-CTP academics and simulator instruction at DPS. Rochelle Kanianthra – General Manager, Atlanta Operations at DPS, overseeing ATP-CTP and Delta client support. 🗣️ Key Topics & Timestamps Time Topic 3:40 What is DPS? Overview of Delta Professional Services 6:10 Course breakdown: 4 days of ground school + 3 days simulator 13:00 Unique benefits of DPS’s program vs other schools 17:40 Letters of recommendation for Delta applicants 23:00 Military transitions, hiring outlook, and the value of ATP-CTP 24:30 GI Bill acceptance & VA liaison support 33:30 Scholarship announcements – two ATP-CTP scholarships at RTAG 39:20 How to apply, class scheduling, and connecting with DPS 💡 Major Takeaways • ATP-CTP is mandatory for anyone pursuing their ATP certificate; DPS offers a robust version enriched by real-world airline experience. • DPS stands out with Delta campus access, daily leadership briefings, simulator depth, and direct exposure to airline culture. • Military-friendly: DPS accepts GI Bill benefits and provides tailored support through a VA liaison. • Scholarship opportunities: DPS partnered with Breakturn Foundation to provide two fully funded ATP-CTP scholarships for veterans. • Career insight: Attending at DPS offers not only training, but also a chance to preview airline life and culture. 📌 Resources & Links • DPS Aviation Services Website [https://dpsaviationservices.com] – Course calendar, application, and program details • Breakturn Foundation [https://breakturn.org]– Scholarships, veteran support, and resources • Join Breakturn Academy [app.breakturn.com] – Free resource hub for veterans in aviation 📢 Call to Action If you’re a veteran, military pilot, or civilian aviator looking to transition into the airlines, now is the time to get your ATP-CTP knocked out. Explore DPS’s program, apply for scholarships, and take advantage of the support network offered through Breakturn. Follow Breakturn on LinkedIn and YouTube, and share this episode with a fellow aviator who’s preparing for the next step in their career!