Thomas and Erik started their pilot education as part of the very first class at OSM Aviation Academy's training location in Arendal, Norway. The aviation industry was booming when they started their education, but as they came close to graduation it was crippled by a global pandemic. In this episode, we are going to explore what it feels like to graduate in the middle of a pandemic, how they dealt with the evolving situation and their strategies for making sure that they are ready once recruitment starts back up again. This conversation tells the story of challenges, uncertainty, and friendship.

Darwin Triggs was enticed when he saw airplanes fly over the farm where he grew up in Canada. He applied for the Canadian armed forces, where he crossed paths with Michel Treskin over 30 years ago. After traveling the world while serving in the Canadian airforce he decided to become a flight instructor, and share his knowledge and experience with his students. When he transitioned from the military world to the civilian world he started flying the BAe 146 as a regional pilot for Air Canada, before he moved on to the Bombardier Dash-8 as a First Officer.

Today Darwin is the Chief Pilot of a large airline, and in this episode, we explore the decisions he has made throughout his career to arrive at where he is today. We also discuss some of the challenges and rewards that come with the position of being a Chief Pilot, and learn a few lessons on leadership along the way. 

If you are a pilot, student pilot, or aviation professional, make sure you head over to www.crewassist.aero and check out the newest initiative from OSM Aviation to support our industry colleagues through the pandemic and beyond. Stay relevant, stay sharp, and be ready! 

When thinking about a business jet pilots typically think about the likes of Global Express, Learjet, and Citation. Today's guest Sam is a VIP pilot flying a substantially larger executive aircraft, the Airbus A340. In this episode, Sam will take us along on his journey in aviation. We will discuss how he got into aviation, what is what like flying F-18's in the Marine Corp, and how his transition to the civilian world was like after 10 years in the military. 

Sam has a tremendously interesting journey and has flown everything from fighter jets to turboprop aircraft, regional jets, and all the way up to the Airbus A340 and A380 (Super Heavy). He also used to work as the Chief Pilot of MGM Grand in Las Vegas. 

Make sure to check out CrewAssist, an online community for aviation professionals and aspiring aviators. Access tons of great resources that will help you secure your next job and register for FREE at www.crewassist.aero.