Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine. 

In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely sit down with Lieutenant Commander Scott Kellerman, U.S. Coast Guard pilot. Join us as Scott shares his remarkable journey from a Southern California upbringing to the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy, detailing the challenges and traditions that shaped his career in aviation.  

We'll explore how Scott's experiences at air shows ignited his passion for flight and led him to serve during critical moments, including responses to many natural disasters including hurricanes, earthquakes, and the Fukushima tsunami and nuclear disaster in 2011.  

Scott brings us his insights on leadership, crisis management, and the significance of networking in emergency response. Scott's compelling anecdotes will take you behind the scenes of search-and-rescue missions, and highlight the importance of preparation and decision-making in the face of adversity. 

Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, BLR Aerospace, and Garmin.