Uplink Shaesta Waiz, Michael Wildes

In this episode of Uplink, we explore the dynamic world of aviation and aerospace through the lens of Kathryn B. Creedy, a distinguished aviation journalist and passionate advocate for workforce development in these industries. With decades of experience covering every facet of commercial and business aviation, Kathryn brings a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the aviation/aerospace workforce today.

Kathryn opens up about her work with Future Aviation/Aerospace Workforce News, highlighting her efforts to bridge the gap between the industry and potential future professionals. She discusses the importance of educating career counselors and students about the vast opportunities available in aviation and aerospace, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to attract more women and minorities into these fields. Delving into her initiatives, Kathryn shares her creation of extensive lists of women executives in aviation, defense, and aerospace, along with a comprehensive catalog of education programs to propel students into rewarding careers. Her dedication to using every available resource, including the calendar, to promote career opportunities is inspiring and enlightening. Her passion for making aviation and aerospace careers more accessible and appealing to a diverse audience shines through as she offers insights into the tools needed for navigating today's workplace.

Listeners will also taste Kathryn's prolific writing career, which has contributed to Forbes Online, Smithsonian's Air & Space Magazine, and many other prestigious publications. Her experiences as the first North American editor/senior analyst for CAPA and her wide-ranging bylines provide a backdrop to her deep understanding of the industry.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of aviation and aerospace, diversity in STEM fields, and the evolving landscape of industry workforces. Kathryn B. Creedy's expert insights and unwavering dedication to workforce development offer valuable lessons for professionals, educators, and students alike, highlighting the importance of passion, perseverance, and innovation in shaping the future of aviation and aerospace careers. Join us on Uplink for an enlightening discussion with Kathryn, where we delve into the challenges, triumphs, and transformative potential of the aviation/aerospace workforce.

We're back with another episode from our sister podcast, AVIATE with Shaesta. We'll be back on Monday with fresh episodes but in the mean time, we want to share this conversation Shaesta had with the first female to serve as the FAA Acting Administrator, Linda Hall Daschle. Linda, a Kansas native, is a prominent public policy and government affairs figure. Daschle has served as a senior executive at several leading organizations and was actively involved in their government relations strategies. After 20 years of actively working in the aviation industry, Linda was nominated by President Bill Clinton and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Deputy Administrator to the FAA.

Daschle became the first woman to serve as the FAA Acting Administrator three years later. In addition to her work in government affairs, Linda is also a sought-after speaker and has participated in numerous conferences and forums, sharing her insights and expertise on various policy issues. She is known for her ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and compellingly, making her a respected voice in the policy arena.

Happy President's Day! We'll be back on Thursday, but today, we're bringing you this special episode from our sister podcast, AVIATE with Shaesta. It's about motherhood and features Shaesta's conversation with Julia Harrington, a pilot and devoted mother. Serving as the Lead Captain and Base Manager at Axis Jet in Chicago, Julia embodies the potential for women's success in aviation while balancing motherhood. She recounts her early fascination with Business Aviation at the renowned EAA AirVenture, her educational path at the University of Illinois, where she earned her wings, and her career as a professional pilot. Her story highlights the evolving role of women in the aviation sector who aspire to grow their families.

In this episode of Uplink, we delve into the forefront of aerospace innovation, focusing on autonomous air combat, the transformative Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, and the critical role of supply chains in aviation's future. Our guest, Rob Wesley, a seasoned Supplier Program Manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security, brings a wealth of knowledge from his extensive background in supply chain management, business strategy, and global aerospace programs.

Rob begins by demystifying autonomous platforms in air combat for us, outlining how these technologies are poised to revolutionize flying and combat strategies in the coming decade. He offers an accessible overview of the CCA program, emphasizing its pivotal role in modern defense strategies and the future of warfare. With insights into the integration of AI and machine learning, Rob highlights the enhanced capabilities and strategic advantages that autonomous systems bring to the battlefield when working alongside manned jets like the F-35.

The conversation then shifts to the impact of these technological advancements on pilots and the aviation industry at large. Rob discusses the potential changes in pilots' roles and responsibilities and explores how the integration of autonomous technologies might reshape the commercial flying experience, touching on aspects of safety and complexity.

Rob also shares his perspective on the global response to new autonomous flying technologies, especially within military applications. He delves into the concept of the 'Loyal Wingman' and its transformative effect on warfare tactics, as well as its utility in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. For young professionals looking to navigate a career in the rapidly evolving field of aerospace and defense, Rob offers invaluable advice, encouraging adaptability and continuous learning.

Highlighting the backbone of aerospace innovation, Rob underscores the importance of the supply chain in developing and maintaining advanced flying machines. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in forging a supply chain for environmentally friendly aerospace products and shares essential insights for managing large-scale, international projects in this dynamic sector.

Wrapping up the discussion, Rob provides guidance for professionals in aerospace, emphasizing the significance of forward-thinking and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry landscape.

Join us on Uplink for a deep dive with Rob Wesley into the exciting future of autonomous air combat, the strategic developments in aerospace technology, and the intricate dance of supply chain management that supports these advancements. Through Rob's expert lens, we gain a clearer understanding of the innovations shaping the future of aviation and defense. Note: While Rob offers a deep dive based on his personal expertise and experience, his insights are his own and do not reflect any official stance or affiliation.

In this episode of "Uplink: The Big Story," we spotlight FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's recent testimony to lawmakers. Amid broader aviation issues, we focus on four lesser-discussed challenges: the debate on raising the airline pilot retirement age from 65 to 67, the impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives on aviation, the use of airports for housing immigrants amid the border crisis, and remote work policies for FAA workers. Plus, honorable mentions include helicopter noise, expanding the GI Bill for veterans' training, vaccine mandates, and FAA tech modernization. Whitaker's insights underscore the FAA's commitment to safety, efficiency, and inclusivity, highlighting the multifaceted nature of aviation administration. Join us as we explore these complexities, shaping the future of American aviation. Welcome to Uplink: The Big Story– the aviation dialogue starts here.

Exploring the State of Aviation Safety with Dr. James E. Sulton, III – This installment of the Uplink dives into the critical sphere of aviation safety, engaging with themes that resonate across the spectrum of aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the flying public. We are privileged to host Dr. James E. Sulton, III, an eminent aviation safety and education figure, as an adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. With a formidable background that includes a blend of aerospace studies and educational leadership, Dr. Sulton stands at the forefront of advocating for safer skies and opening pathways for underrepresented youths into aviation careers through his initiative, AviationEd.

In this episode, Dr. Sulton unfolds his narrative, sharing the inspirations and experiences that propelled him into aviation and fueled his dedication to safety and education. The dialogue navigates through the shifting landscapes of aviation safety, especially in light of the NTSB's Most Wanted List retirement. Dr. Sulton offers insights into the evolving priorities and strategies that promise to enhance safety protocols and practices across the industry.

The conversation further delves into the stubborn challenges that persistently shadow aviation safety efforts alongside the burgeoning opportunities for innovation that stand to revolutionize safety measures. Dr. Sulton emphasizes the pivotal role of emerging technologies and fresh perspectives, particularly from young professionals, in overcoming these hurdles and advancing the safety agenda.

A nuanced exploration of the disparities in safety needs and approaches between business and commercial aviation unravels, shedding light on the specific challenges and solutions pertinent to each sector. Dr. Sulton also highlights the critical importance of Safety Management Systems (SMS) in bolstering safety outcomes in commercial aviation and private operators. Addressing the gap between public perception and the real state of aviation safety, Dr. Sulton seeks to dispel common myths, offering a grounded perspective on the current safety climate and the continuous efforts to improve it.

Dr. Sulton shares advice for those curious about the world of aviation and contemplating a career within this dynamic field. He touches on how his passion for aviation seamlessly integrates with his family life and community engagement, offering a personal glimpse into the life of a safety advocate. Whether you're deeply entrenched in the aviation sector, a passionate aficionado, or someone curious about the safety of air travel, this episode promises an engaging and informative journey into the heart of aviation safety.