NHCFAE Podcast

NHCFAE
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Welcome to the official NHCFAE Podcast — where aviation, space, and community come together. We are the National Hispanic Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NHCFAE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, supporting, and advancing Hispanic and underrepresented professionals in aviation and aerospace. Through education, mentorship, and outreach, we inspire the next generation of aviation leaders and highlight the diverse voices shaping the industry. Stay Connected Website: www.nhcfae.org Email: dopa@nhcfae.org Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter (X): @NHCFAE_

  1. Jul 13

    The Journey of Brazil’s Inspiring Woman Pilot

    What does it take to overcome unimaginable loss and continue pursuing your dreams? In this inspiring episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, National Vice President Karen Perez sits down with Taína Nogueira Rodrigues, a Brazilian commercial pilot whose journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and purpose. After losing her father—also a pilot—in a tragic aviation accident, Taína stepped away from flying before finding the strength to return and honor his legacy. Today, she is pursuing advanced flight training in the United States, earning FAA certifications, receiving multiple aviation scholarships, mentoring future pilots, and inspiring women around the world to pursue careers in aviation. In this episode, you’ll learn about:  Growing up in a family of pilots in Brazil Overcoming grief and finding purpose Transitioning from Brazilian aviation to the FAA system Aviation scholarships that helped make her dream possible The importance of mentorship and the 99s leadership program Women in aviation and increasing representation Her dream of flying seaplanes to serve remote communities in Alaska Advice for aspiring pilots around the world Whether you’re an aspiring aviator, aviation professional, student, or simply looking for a story of perseverance, this conversation is sure to inspire you.  Subscribe for more inspiring aviation stories from the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE).  Learn more about NHCFAE:https://nhcfae.org  Listen on your favorite podcast platform:• Spotify• Apple Podcasts• Amazon Music Follow NHCFAE for scholarship opportunities, career resources, mentorship, and aviation leadership content. #WomenInAviation #Pilot #Aviation #Mentorship #Scholarships #Brazil #FAA #CommercialPilot #AviationCareer #Leadership #NHCFAE #CareerSeries #LatinasInAviation #WomenWhoFly #FuturePilot

  2. Jul 6

    How a Dominican Air Traffic Controller Is Inspiring the Next Generation

    Welcome to another episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast! In this inspiring bilingual episode, Karen Perez sits down with Olga Isabel Pérez, an accomplished Air Traffic Controller, journalist, STEM advocate, and aviation innovator from the Dominican Republic. Olga shares her remarkable journey from walking into an airport looking for her first job to becoming an air traffic controller, launching the educational aviation reality show Quiero Ser Piloto, promoting STEM careers across Latin America, and developing SARA, an AI-powered aviation information assistant designed to improve access to critical aeronautical information. In this episode we discuss: Becoming an Air Traffic Controller Aviation careers beyond being a pilot Journalism and aviation outreach Women in STEM and leadership Teamwork inside the control tower Artificial Intelligence in aviation Mentorship and educational opportunities Inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals Whether you’re a student, aviation enthusiast, STEM professional, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation demonstrates how passion, perseverance, and service can create lasting impact. Learn more about NHCFAE and our scholarship, mentorship, and professional development opportunities:  https://nhcfae.org Follow NHCFAE:LinkedInFacebookInstagramYouTube  Like, Comment & Subscribe to help us continue sharing inspiring stories from aviation professionals across the world.

  3. Jun 30

    ​Breaking Barriers in Aerospace: Claudia Zapata-Cardone

    In this inspiring episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, National Vice President and host Karen Perez sits down with Claudia Zapata-Cardone, Airbus A320 Captain at United Airlines, Line Check Pilot, and President of Latino Professionals in Aerospace (LPA). Claudia shares her incredible journey—from childhood dinners near Newark Airport watching airplanes take off and land, to overcoming obstacles, financial setbacks, and self-doubt to achieve her dream of becoming an airline captain. In this episode, you’ll discover:  The power of early exposure and mentorship How perseverance can overcome barriers and setbacks Lessons on leadership, representation, and breaking barriers for women in aviation The importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of aerospace professionals Why community and mentorship matter in building the future of aviation Claudia’s story is a powerful reminder that dreams don’t always follow a straight path, but with grit, support, and determination, anything is possible.  Join the 2026 LPA Aerospace Industry Expo September 17–18, 2026 Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek14100 Bonnet Creek Resort LaneOrlando, FL 32821 Whether you’re a pilot, mechanic, engineer, dispatcher, entrepreneur, student, or professional in any corner of aviation and aerospace—you belong here. The LPA Aerospace Industry Expo offers thought-provoking speaker sessions, networking opportunities with industry leaders, and direct engagement with top aerospace recruiters. Celebrate innovation, career advancement, and the rich contributions of Latin American culture to the aerospace industry.    Learn more and register: ⁠https://www.lpa-aero.org/expo2026 Subscribe to NHCFAE for more conversations on aviation careers, leadership, mentorship, and opportunities within the aerospace community.  Website: https://nhcfae.org/  Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.

  4. Jun 8

    Captain Mama: Inspiring the Next Generation of Latinas in Aviation

    What does it take to break barriers, challenge expectations, and soar to new heights? In this inspiring episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, National Vice President Karen Perez sits down with aviation pioneer, Air Force veteran, author, entrepreneur, and advocate Graciela Tiscareño-Sato, also known as Captain Mama. Together, they explore her remarkable journey from being the daughter of Mexican immigrants to becoming a military aviator, author, and champion for the next generation of aviation professionals.   In this episode, you’ll learn about:  Serving as a navigator aboard the KC-135 aerial refueling tanker The mentors who changed her life and career trajectory Breaking barriers as a woman in military aviation Earning the Air Medal and overcoming institutional challenges The power of mentorship and representation in aviation Leadership, resilience, and challenging low expectations Inspiring young Latinas and underrepresented communities to pursue STEM and aviation careers Why being “ambicultural” is a strength, not a limitation Graciela’s story is a powerful reminder that the sky is not the limit—it’s where we work, lead, and inspire future generations.  Hosted by Karen PerezPresented by the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE)  Learn more about NHCFAE: https://nhcfae.org  Like, Comment, and Subscribe to support our mission of advancing aviation excellence and creating pathways for future leaders. #NHCFAE #AviationCareers #LatinasInAviation #WomenInAviation #STEM #MilitaryAviation #Mentorship #Leadership #CaptainMama #Aerospace #AviationPodcast #CareerSeries

  5. Jun 1

    Breaking Barriers in Aviation | Zaury Trinidad

    From Puerto Rico to Delta Air Lines Headquarters, Zaury Trinidad’s journey is a powerful story of courage, resilience, mentorship, and taking control of your own destiny.   In this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, National Vice President Karen Perez sits down with Zaury Trinidad, a military veteran and aviation professional with nearly 30 years of experience in the aviation industry. Zaury shares: Her upbringing in Puerto Rico and the values that shaped her career How her grandfather’s lessons on service and integrity still guide her today Her experience as an aircraft engine mechanic in the U.S. Navy The challenges of overcoming bias and advocating for herself in the workplace The bold decision that changed her life and launched her career with Delta Air Lines The importance of mentorship, networking, and using your voice Advice for students and professionals interested in aviation careers This conversation is filled with inspiring stories, career lessons, and reminders that success often comes from taking risks, believing in yourself, and embracing your culture. About NHCFAEThe National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE) is dedicated to advancing professional development, mentorship, networking, scholarships, and leadership opportunities for individuals pursuing careers in aviation, transportation, and public service. Website: https://nhcfae.org Learn about Membership, Scholarships, Mentorship, and Professional Development Opportunities Don’t forget to: Like Comment Subscribe Share with someone interested in aviation careers #NHCFAE #AviationCareers #DeltaAirLines #LatinasInAviation #WomenInAviation #MilitaryVeteran #AviationLeadership #Mentorship #CareerDevelopment #PuertoRico #HispanicProfessionals #AviationIndustry

  6. May 31

    Behind the Scenes of Aviation Safety

    What does it take to keep America’s aviation system running safely every single day?In this episode of the NHCFAE Podcast, host John Espinosa sits down with Carlos Aguirre, PASS National Secretary-Treasurer, to discuss the critical role PASS members play in maintaining aviation safety across the National Airspace System (NAS). From radar systems and aviation inspections to workforce development and modernization efforts, this conversation highlights the people working behind the scenes to keep millions of passengers safe every day.Carlos shares his inspiring Aviation journey — from engineering intern to Airway Transportation Systems Specialist and national labor leader — while discussing:• The mission and role of PASS• Aviation modernization and NAS upgrades• Aviation workforce shortages and training initiatives• STEM outreach and aviation career pathways• The future of aviation innovation, drones, and space operations• Why unions and workforce advocacy matter in aviation safetyWhether you’re interested in aviation careers, aviation operations, aviation safety, or the future of aerospace technology, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most important industries in the world.Learn more about PASS:https://www.passnational.orghttps://www.passnational.org/index.php/join-passLearn more about NHCFAE:NHCFAE.orgFollow the NHCFAE Podcast on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms for more conversations highlighting aviation professionals, leadership, STEM outreach, and workforce development.#NHCFAE #PASS #AviationSafety #AviationCareers #STEM #Aerospace #NAS #AviationPodcast #WorkforceDevelopment #AirTrafficControl #AviationInnovation #UnionStrong #AviationLeadership

  7. May 11

    Transportation Federal Credit Union: Supporting Financial Growth in Aviation Careers

    Welcome back to the NHCFAE Podcast — where we highlight leaders, trailblazers, and innovators shaping the future of aviation and transportation. In this special Sponsorship Series episode, host Karen Perez sits down with Sharmaine Bucknor, Chief Marketing Officer at Transportation Federal Credit Union, to discuss the power of financial empowerment, education, and generational wealth within the aviation and transportation community.  In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between credit unions vs. traditional banksHow TFCU supports financial wellness & stabilityStrategies for building credit, saving money, and reducing debtWhy financial education is critical for underserved communitiesHow programs like Dare to Soar are inspiring the next generation in aviationTips for students and professionals to build strong financial habits earlyTFCU has been serving members for over 85 years, helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals through lower rates, fewer fees, and personalized financial guidance.    Whether you’re a student, professional, or aviation enthusiast — this episode gives you practical tools to take control of your financial future.  Learn more about TFCU: https://www.transfcu.org  Connect with NHCFAE: https://www.nhcfae.org  Don’t forget to:  Like  Comment  Subscribe Join us as we continue to grow, lead, and shape the future of aviation together.

  8. May 4

    Career Series: Air Traffic Controller Journey

    In this episode of the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE) Career Series Podcast, we sit down with Ariel Ortega, a Certified Professional Controller with the FAA and former United States Marine Corps Air Traffic Control Specialist. Ariel shares her inspiring journey—from joining the military at just 17 years old to building a successful career in air traffic control. She discusses her experiences working at multiple FAA facilities, adapting to different environments, and transitioning from military life to the civilian workforce. We also dive into: How she discovered air traffic control The transition from the United States Marine Corps to the Federal Aviation Administration Cultural experiences from working in places like Japan The importance of mentorship, leadership, and union support Advice for students interested in aviation careers If you’re considering a career in aviation—or simply want to hear a powerful story of growth, resilience, and leadership—this episode is for you.  Interested in aviation careers, mentorship, or scholarships?Visit: https://www.nhcfae.org  Don’t forget to: Like Comment Subscribe for more aviation career insights

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About

Welcome to the official NHCFAE Podcast — where aviation, space, and community come together. We are the National Hispanic Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NHCFAE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, supporting, and advancing Hispanic and underrepresented professionals in aviation and aerospace. Through education, mentorship, and outreach, we inspire the next generation of aviation leaders and highlight the diverse voices shaping the industry. Stay Connected Website: www.nhcfae.org Email: dopa@nhcfae.org Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter (X): @NHCFAE_

Information

  • Creator
    NHCFAE
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © NHCFAE
  • Show Website
    NHCFAE Podcast