Did you know that in the aviation world, stepping forward can lead to remarkable achievements? Join us and be inspired as we talk about the motivational story of an individual who took the steps to soar to new heights.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   An inspiring story about having the courage to step forward   The power of going outside your comfort zone   Why you should engage with the people around you     RESOURCE/LINK MENTIONED   ORGANIZATION OF BLACK AEROSPACE PROFESSIONALS     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! 

Ep94: Closed Mouths Don’t Get Fed

If you're looking to enter the commercial aviation industry, we've got the right podcast for you!

With pilot and interview coach Nik Fialka as your host, we will deliver exceptional and insightful content to help you understand the landscape of professional aviation. We will help you organize your thoughts, score interview points, and ace the aviation recruitment process. You will get a deep dive into all the facets of the aviation industry by hearing directly from leaders and recruiters. You’ll learn how to stay composed and articulate yourself with impact as we uncover airline-specific pilot selection demands, analyze the aviation industry's culture, and give you great interview advice.

Listen to the Ready 4 Pushback podcast to transform yourself and gain valuable perspective about your dream job!

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Want to command respect and seize new opportunities in aviation? Discover how dressing sharp not only boosts your confidence but also opens doors you never knew existed. From perfectly tailored uniforms to polished shoes, we share insider tips on how to stand out and impress in every aviation role. Don't miss this chance to learn how the right attire can set you apart in the competitive world of aviation.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   The importance of looking put together and how it impacts your career in aviation   Key tips on selecting and maintaining professional attire   How first impressions influence your networking and career opportunities   Practical advice on dressing appropriately for different aviation roles   How dressing well boosts your confidence and projects authority     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Flight Uniform   Tron Williams     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!  

Ep145: The First Thing: You Need to Look Good

From their current adventures as dangerous goods agents at Bradley Airport to their lofty ambitions of piloting wide-body jets for American Airlines, this episode offers a deep dive into Shemar Baker and Garrett Cooke's aviation journey. Tune in to hear their story of passion, preparation, and persistence, and get ready to be inspired to chase your own dreams in the clouds!   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   What you need to prepare to become a pilot   Insights into the American Airlines Cadet Academy and why it appeals to aspiring pilots   The significance of networking and mentorship in the aviation industry   Strategies for saving and financially preparing for flight school   Importance of persistence, teamwork, and keeping a positive mindset throughout the pilot training process     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals   AA Cadet Academy   LinkedIn   Ready 4 Pushback: Ep41: Lift As You Climb     ABOUT SHEMAR BAKER AND GARRETT COOKE Shemar and Garrett are currently working as Dangerous Goods agents while pursuing their dreams of becoming pilots. They have taken significant steps towards their goal, including networking with industry professionals, saving for flight school, and applying to the American Airlines Cadet Academy. Their story is a testament to the power of determination and teamwork in achieving one's career aspirations.   CONNECT WITH SHEMAR AND GARRETT   LinkedIn: Shemar Baker | Garrett Cooke   Instagram: @f80_shemar | @gcooke28   Email: Shemarbaker43@gmail.com | garrettcooke1@gmail.com     CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!   SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. If you’re a professional pilot looking for a great financial planning partner for your retirement, tax, and investment, go to www.tpope.ceterainvestors.com/contact or call 704-717-9300 ext 120 to schedule a consultation appointment with Timothy P. Pope, CFP®. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order.

Ep144: How Two Friends Are Soaring Towards Their Pilot Dreams with Shemar Baker and Garrett Cooke

Dive into the turbulent waters of the airline industry in this episode, where we uncover the real story behind the headlines and current hiring trends. From the latest on Spirit's struggles to insights on navigating training contracts, this episode is a must-listen for pilots at every stage of their career!   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   The changing dynamics of regional airline hiring and the demand for captains   How training contracts and retention bonuses impact pilot career decisions   What are the current challenges faced by Spirit and Frontier Airlines?   Key insights into the hiring practices of major airlines   Strategies to stand out in a competitive pilot job market     RESOURCE/LINK MENTIONED   Timothy P. Pope, CFP®     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!  

Ep143: Airline Hiring: What Pilots Need to Know Now

Join Col. Anthony Krockel on an exhilarating dive into the world of military aviation training at Pensacola's Whiting Field. Get an insider’s glimpse into how the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviators are forged in the flames of rigorous training and innovative simulation techniques. Tune in to learn how you can earn the prestigious Wings of Gold!   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   The prerequisites needed to begin military aviation training and the path to earning Wings of Gold   A comprehensive overview of the military aviation training phases   Significance and role of advanced simulators and contractor-operated pilot training in enhancing the quality and efficiency of pilot preparation   Insights into the dedication and perseverance required to succeed in the challenging environment of military aviation training   Introduction of innovative training methods aimed at modernizing the preparation of student aviators     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Training Air Wing Five   ICARUS Devices     ABOUT COL. ANTHONY KROCKEL Col. Krockel graduated from UCLA with a BA in International Relations in 1998 and completed flight training in the CH-46E. He deployed several times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and, later, with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit in the Middle East. In 2006, he became the Joint Mission Planning System-Expeditionary Project Manager at Naval Air Systems Command and later earned an MS in Project Management.    He transitioned to the MV-22, serving in various roles, including Aircraft Maintenance Officer, Executive Officer, and eventually assumed command of VMM-365, participating in multiple deployments, including humanitarian missions to Haiti and Puerto Rico. He worked as a program analyst at the Pentagon, graduated with distinction from the Inter-American Defense College, and later became the Director for Training, Exercises and Readiness at III Marine Expeditionary Force in Japan before commanding Training Air Wing FIVE in 2023.   CONNECT WITH COL. ANTHONY   LinkedIn: Anthony Krockel     CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!   SPONSORS Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. If you’re a professional pilot looking for a great financial planning partner for your retirement, tax, and investment, go to www.tpope.ceterainvestors.com/contact or call 704-717-9300 ext 120 to schedule a consultation appointment with Timothy P. Pope, CFP®. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order.

Ep142: The Intense World of Military Aviation Training Uncovered! with Col. Anthony Krockel

This episode delves into the critical yet often overlooked aspect of a pilot's career—medical certification. From navigating the FAA's stringent medical requirements to exploring backup career plans within the aviation sector, Nik provides a roadmap for pilots facing medical uncertainties. So tune in for practical tips to safeguard their careers against unforeseen medical challenges!   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE   Understanding the FAA medical certification process and its impact on your flying career   Steps to take immediately if facing a potential loss of medical certification   How to manage and navigate the recovery and appeal process with the FAA   Career alternatives within aviation if flying is no longer possible   Ways to mentally and financially prepare for the possibility of losing your medical certificate     RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED   Get a Medical Certificate | Federal Aviation Administration   LinkedIn     CONNECT WITH US  Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!

Ep94: Closed Mouths Don’t Get Fed

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