Ready 4 Pushback Nik Fialka
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- Leisure
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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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Ep139: Tune In, This Show is Yours
With a candid look at listener feedback and the operational hurdles facing airlines, we explore the resilience required in today’s aviation professionals. Dial in as we emphasize the importance of adapting to industry fluctuations, offer advice on handling periods of less flight activity, and encourage pilots to remain engaged and proactive in managing their careers.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
Effective ways to address and benefit from listener feedback
Insights into United Airlines' strategic decisions regarding pilot employment and furloughs
Ways to stay proactive and career-focused during industry slowdowns
Importance of building and maintaining connections within the aviation industry
Strategies for personal and professional development amidst industry uncertainties
RESOURCE/LINK MENTIONED
2454. The Railway Labor Act (RLA)
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!
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Ep138: Change Careers to a Major Airline! Interview with James
Navigating a career transition is a universal challenge, yet specific frameworks can assist in overcoming obstacles. In this episode, James Maune, who successfully transitioned from being a lawyer to an aviator, leads us through the complexities of juggling work, family, and school. Discover effective strategies that’ll propel you toward a successful professional aviation career.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
Actionable tips to balance work, family, and pilot training
Reasons to train in major airlines as a pilot
How to leverage your network to prepare for an aviation interview
Expert advice on how to become a professional pilot
RESOURCE/LINK MENTIONED
RTAG
ABOUT JAMES MAUNE
James is an airline transport pilot and a lawyer. He was selected as SuperLawyer's rising star in San Diego in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. His practice focuses on drafting and prosecuting patent applications in the US and abroad. His practice includes complex patent infringement litigation cases in federal district courts, post-grant review proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), trademark prosecution, and ex parte review proceedings. He then transitioned to a career as a professional aviator: airline transport pilot (ME), 1st class medical, and FCC Radio Operator's License.
CONNECT WITH JAMES
Website: American Airlines | Kilpatrick Townsend
LinkedIn: James Maune
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. -
Ep137: Furloughs: Keep Calm and Pilot on!
Are you concerned about the current state of the aviation industry? Tune in as we discuss how these challenges can be opportunities for your personal and professional growth. Whether you're going to flight school or contemplating your next career move, this episode offers encouragement and practical advice to help you navigate these turbulent times.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
Strategies to enhance your aviation career during industry slowdowns
How to remain competitive and marketable in the aviation job market
Managing career transitions and the importance of continuous learning and certification
Coping mechanisms and strategies for pilots facing furloughs or job uncertainty
Maintaining mental health and resilience during career challenges
RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED
Ready 4 Pushback: Ep05: Inertia | Don't Just Sit There!!
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!
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Ep136: Don't Take NO for an Answer: A UAV's Pilot Journey to a Major Airline
Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of transitioning from drone aviation to piloting manned aircraft with Jimmy. Discover how to leverage your unique experiences and network effectively to carve out your path in aviation. This isn’t just an episode, it's a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and strategic planning for any aviator facing a crossroads in their career. So tune in!
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
Strategies to overcome career transition challenges within aviation
The importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating career changes
How to harness the power of networking and mentorship for career advancement in aviation
Practical insights into leveraging training programs and resources to achieve your piloting goals
RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED
DOD SkillBridge
Professional Asian Pilots Association
Rusty Pilots In-Person Seminars - AOPA
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. -
Ep135: DON'T TOUCH MY AIRCRAFT. Friction at 40,000 Feet
How should you react when unexpected turbulence hits? In this episode, we share a gripping story about a fellow pilot's quick reaction to sudden airspeed changes caused by turbulence, along with the captain's surprising response. Listen to the end to learn about the importance of teamwork and crew resource management in aviation.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
The dynamics of pilot flying and pilot monitoring roles in handling unexpected flight conditions
Importance of effective crew resource management and teamwork in aviation safety
Appropriate actions to take when encountering sudden turbulence
Why professional standards and conflict management are vital within airline operations
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! -
Ep 134: Frontier Airlines: An Airline You CAN Work For with Nicholas Tursi
Hop in on an exciting discussion about transitioning to major airlines with seasoned pilot Nicholas Tursi! Let him be your expert guide as he offers insider tips on acing unexpected interviews, navigating salary negotiations, and leveraging scholarships to skyrocket your aviation career. Tune in to this episode and book your ride for an exciting journey to success today.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE
Intrinsic value of starting a conversation with airline recruiters
Expected salaries for newly hired pilots in the US
A flight school scholarship program to help military veterans avoid debt
Services Frontier Airlines provides for their passengers and pilots
Advantages of working at a local base for pilots who commute to work
RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED
American Airlines
RTAG
PSA Airlines
VR&E Flight School & Voc Rec Pilot Training
YouTube Link: iamnicthevet
SkyBridge Aviation
Allegiant
United Airlines
ABOUT NICHOLAS TURSI
Nicholas is a commercial airline pilot and SkyBridge counselor dedicated to veterans' success. As an airline transport pilot, Nicholas has experience succeeding in challenging and variable flight environments. He's a seasoned flight instructor with a 100% student passing rate. Nicholas is a former U.S. Army team leader with a strong record of leading & mentoring soldiers under his command
CONNECT WITH NICHOLAS
Website: Frontier Airlines | BreakTurn | Piedmont Airlines
LinkedIn: Nicholas Tursi
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.
Customer Reviews
Very informative and on point.
Hi Nik
Been following your podcast for a while now and really enjoy it. My company recently went out of business (ACMI) and now we are facing the daunting process of applying to other companies. Not sure if it has been mentioned before on some previous podcast but can you offer some insight on the Regionals and the cargo/feeder operations side of the industry? Thanks!
Keep calm Waiting for better winds
Ia lot of useful information on this podcast. I am ready to start my Spitfire Elite journey. Thanks a lot.
A plethora of great topics
This podcast is gold mine for information, especially for lowly military rotor-heads trying to figure out how to play civilian jet guy. Thanks for the work and effort Nik!