FAA Safety Briefing — November/December 2021

D E P A R T M E N T S 2 Jumpseat: an executive policy perspective The FAA Safety Policy Voice of Non-commercial General Aviation 3 ATIS: GA news and current events 5 Aeromedical Advisory – a checkup on all things aeromedical 6 Condition Inspection: a look at specific medical conditions 24 Checklist: FAA resources and safety reminders 25 Drone Debrief: drone safety roundup 26 Nuts, Bolts, and Electrons: GA maintenance issues 28 Angle of Attack: GA safety strategies 30 Vertically Speaking: safety issues for rotorcraft pilots When I Grow Up, I Want to Be an Aviator!

How the FAA Helps to Launch Students into an Aviation Career 31 Flight Forum: letters from the Safety Briefing mailbag 32 Postflight: an editor’s perspective Inside back cover FAA Faces: FAA employee profile Beyond the Flight Deck Picking up STEAM Non-Flying Work in the Aviation World How FAA-Industry Collaboration

13 16

Keeps Training Real Meet Shaesta Waiz Trailblazer, Mentor, and a Global Inspiration for Women in Aviation Small Props for Big Change Dive into Drone Jobs November/December 2021 1

ROBERT C. (RICO) CARTY, FLIGHT STANDARDS SERVICE ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JUMPSEAT

PIPELINES, PATHWAYS, PARTNERSHIPS

( Note: we’ll talk about the “arts” both formal and informal outreach and partnerships. While its funda - component of the “STEAM” acronym a bit later in this issue. ) mental aims are constant, the specifics of the program have evolved to meet Aerospace is a huge field. Accord - ing to the FAA’s January 2020 report the changing needs of the highly dynamic aviation industry. At this on The Economic Impact of Civil Aviation on the U.S. Economy , the U.S. stage, the guiding principles for FAA STEM AVSED engagement include: aerospace system contributes to more than 5% of the U.S. Gross Domestic (1) developing robust pipeline and pathway activities that reach diverse Product and accounts for $1.8 trillion in total economic activity. The indus - student populations; (2) using part - nerships with industry, academia, try also supports nearly 11 million jobs. Supporting this critical industry and government; and (3) ensuring successful internal and external col - today and as it evolves into the future, while also ensuring the safety and effi - laboration on these efforts.

ciency of the U.S. aerospace system, Ambassadors for Aviation requires a robust pipeline of future You don’t have to work for the FAA aerospace professionals who have the to contribute to the critical work of right skills to meet the 21st century introducing young people to aviation.

challenges of the aerospace industry.

Each and every person with a passion FAA Outreach for aviation can help by sharing that enthusiasm with people you know.

Not surprisingly, the FAA places high priority on doing its part to fill the You can get some specific ideas from Mission: Inspire youth from diverse information on the FAA website’s future aerospace workforce pipeline backgrounds to pursue aerospace with diverse and highly skilled indi - STEM AVSED page. You might also careers and create a consistent pipeline consider finding ways to help pub - viduals. The agency is working closely of professionals for a robust workforce with partners in industry, academia, licize and celebrate National STEM of the future. — FAA STEM AVSED Day on November 8. The possibilities non-profits, and other government Action Plan agencies to develop and implement are endless, and the rewards are great.

I hope you’ll take the time to get a robust program to reach as many Greetings! As you might have seen young people as possible, includ - involved in this very important cause.

in the September/October issue, ing those in underrepresented and Rick Domingo retired from his underserved populations, and address Robert C. (Rico) Carty is Acting Executive Director of position as executive director of the the FAA Aviation Safety Organization’s Flight Standards industry needs. The FAA’s STEM Avi - FAA Flight Standards Service at the Service. Before joining the FAA in 2006, Mr. Carty flew as a ation and Space Education (AVSED) end of September. It is my pleasure captain for a major part 121 U.S. air carrier. His background Program is an essential part of our to occupy this space in FAA Safety also includes corporate flying and a distinguished career in outreach to the public.

the U.S. Air Force as a C-130 and C-141 pilot.

Briefing magazine in my capacity as The FAA’s STEM AVSED program acting executive director. I am espe - is not new. First established in 1961, cially happy to introduce an issue the goal is to conduct outreach and devoted to a subject very close to my LEARN MORE prepare skilled professionals for heart: encouraging education in sci - careers in the aerospace industry.

ence, technology, engineering, and Over the last 60 years, the STEM FAA STEM AVSED mathematics (STEM) as a portal to AVSED program has reached count - faa.gov/education any of the many constantly evolving less numbers of young people through careers in aviation.

2 FAA Safety Briefing

GA NEWS AND CURRENT EVENTS ATIS

AVIATION NEWS ROUNDUP

New SAFO Clears You for Success In July 2021, the FAA published Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) 21005, Risks Associated with Visual Approaches , which warns airplane operators and pilots of risks associ - ated with visual approaches. While the SAFO’s target audience is instru - ment flight rules (IFR) commercial operators, it provides risk mitigation strategies that all general aviation (GA) pilots can use. The SAFO advises flight crews to: • Consider requesting an instru - ment approach to reduce the likelihood of aligning with the per violation and up to $30,800 for you can use to streamline the wrong runway or a taxiway, and/ multiple laser incidents. The FAA has medical certification process. For or exiting controlled airspace.

issued $600,000 in fines since 2016, more information, see the Guide for • Communicate “UNABLE” to which includes $120,000 in 2021.

Aviation Medical Examiners at ATC when, in the judgment of Violators can also face criminal pen - faa.gov/go/ameguide. The Pilot the pilot-in-command, compli - alties from federal, state, and local law Minute video series is produced by ance with a specific instruction, enforcement agencies.

the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, request, or clearance may Working to identify trends in laser Medical Education Division.

reduce safety.

strikes, the FAA has developed a visu - To watch the video, go to alization tool that analyzes laser strike youtu.be/sC-C4GwFZ9Q .

You can view or download SAFO data from 2010 to 2020.

21005 at bit.ly/SAFO21005 .

Trends in Dangerous Laser Strikes Using the Tableau software plat - Tips for Speeding Up Your Shining a laser at an aircraft poses a form, the tool identifies trends that Medical Certification include geographic area, per capita serious safety threat and can result in large fines and criminal penalties. data, and time of day and year. The In the inaugural episode of the Pilot FAA is sharing the information in the Minute , FAA Federal Air Surgeon Dr. People who shine lasers at aircraft face FAA fines of up to $11,000 new format to draw attention to the Susan Northrup provides simple tips SAFETY ENHANCEMENT TOPICS Please visit bit.ly/GAFactSheets for more information on these and other topics.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER Aircraft Performance Monitoring — Overreliance on Automation — Learn how overreliance on A review of best practices for determining automation technology can and predicting aircraft performance.

inhibit terrain awareness.

November/December 2021 3 ATIS dangerously high rate of laser strikes develop technologies that reduce fuel on airplanes. use, emissions, and noise. The award Laser strikes increased in 2020 is part of a series of steps President despite the decrease in flights due to the Biden is taking to coordinate lead - COVID-19 public health emergency. ership and innovation across the Pilots reported 6,852 laser strikes to the federal government, aircraft man - FAA last year, up from 6,136 in 2019. ufacturers, airlines, fuel producers, The number of incidents reported in and more to position American 2020 was the highest annual total since aviation to soar towards net zero 2016. Laser report data by year is avail - emissions by 2050.

The Continuous Lower Energy, able for download on the FAA’s website at faa.gov/go/lasers . Emissions, and Noise (CLEEN) Program is a public-private partner - The FAA remains vigilant in raising awareness about the dangers of point - ship that began in 2010 and is a key part of the FAA’s overall strategy to ing lasers at aircraft and encourages the public to report laser strikes to the tackle the global challenge of climate change and lower the impact aviation FAA and local law enforcement.

has on communities. The program to use “Learn to Turn” to gain more Free “Learn to Turn” requires the companies receiving knowledge and experience with all Program Available the contracts to match or exceed the aspects of turning flight.

Master Flight Instructor and 2014 FAA’s investment, bringing the total The e-booklet along with all of the National FAA Safety Team (FAAS - to at least $200 million over a five- program assets can be accessed at Team) Rep of the Year Rich Stowell year period. The awards are the third communityaviation.com/learn-to-turn.

recently released “Learn to Turn,” a phase of the FAA’s CLEEN program.

Further, pilots who participate in free program that takes a stick and Under CLEEN Phase III, the FAA “Learn to Turn” can qualify for a five rudder approach to help reduce and six industry partners will focus percent discount on their annual the frequency of loss of control on reducing aviation emissions and Avemco insurance premium through accidents. Sponsored by Avemco noise, including pursuing goals of the company’s safety rewards program.

Insurance Company and Hart - reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emis - zell Propeller Inc., the program sions by improving fuel efficiency by Summer Aviation Safety Series is anchored by a 98-page digital at least 20% below the relevant Inter - In case you missed it, watch our booklet. Supporting assets include national Civil Aviation Organization summer aviation safety playlist on a 42-page graphics supplement to (ICAO) standard; NOx emissions by YouTube to learn about NOTAM facilitate classroom discussion, a 70% relative to the most recent ICAO modernization, navigation tools, safe 28-minute webinar recording, a standard; particulate matter emis - takeoffs and landings, and how to 12-minute video, targeted training sions below the ICAO standard; and access critical safety information.

exercises, and a pilot survey. noise by 25 dB cumulative, relative to To watch the webinars, go to “Through no fault of their own, the FAA Stage 5 standard.

bit.ly/3x1fwPy .

light airplane pilots generally have The CLEEN technologies devel - been misinformed and undertrained oped so far are estimated to reduce regarding turn dynamics,” says Stow - CO2 emissions equivalent to remov - ell, who has more than 30 years of ing 3 million cars from the road by experience providing spin, emergency 2050 and to save the aviation industry maneuver, and aerobatic training. “In 36 billion gallons of fuel. The fuel sav - addition to academic content, ‘Learn ings is the equivalent of 11.4 million to Turn’ offers training exercises Boeing 737 flights between New York designed to improve basic flying skills and Los Angeles.

and increase awareness of the conse - The FAA anticipates that technol - quences of our control inputs.” ogies developed under CLEEN Phase The FAASTeam is among a coalition III could be introduced into commer - Next Generation of Sustainable of thirty early supporters sharing and cial aircraft by 2031.

Aircraft Technology promoting the content. Pilots, and The FAA has awarded more than especially instructors, are encouraged $100 million for companies to help 4 FAA Safety Briefing

DR. SUSAN NORTHRUP, FAA FEDERAL AIR SURGEON AEROMEDICAL ADVISORY

FAA MEDICAL CERTIFICATION AND ALTERNATIVES

Comprehensive Medical Examination Several years ago, my predecessor penned an article regarding the his - Checklist (CMEC)) to ensure flight safety and appropriate treatment(s) to tory of medical certification and an article on the process of certification. remain compatible with flight safety.

The FAA’s Office of Aerospace As he noted, the fundamental purpose of medical evaluation and certification Medicine recently reviewed accident data for pilots flying under BasicMed.

is safety, yours and the public’s.

With this in mind, and with While the trend may show a slight increase in mishaps in BasicMed occasional direction from Congress, the FAA developed a set of standards pilots compared to those who main - tain a medical certificate, it did not that a pilot must meet to fly. As you might expect, these standards get reach statistical significance when (AME), but these “Conditions AMEs comparing the number of accidents more stringent as the potential risk Can Issue (CACI)” also qualify for an to the public increases. A review of under BasicMed and Class III medical unrestricted medical.

certificates. In other words, we cannot the medical certification process and In most cases, even when some - alternatives is now timely. determine if this is a real difference or one does not meet the standards, we simply due to chance.

Some aviation activities, including can still issue a medical, with either ultralights, gliders, and balloons, do We will continue to monitor the a SODA (statement of demonstrated trends in all categories of accident not require a medical certificate at ability) or SI (special issuance). After all. Ultralight pilots, under 14 CFR data, as we have done for decades.

an appropriate and successful evalua - Please remember that changing from part 103, do not even need a pilot tion, a SODA is issued for a condition certificate. Sport pilots can fly with a medical certification to BasicMed does that is expected to be stable. An SI, on not cure any underlying condition(s) driver’s license. In many states, you are the other hand, is issued when pro - allowed to drive with physical condi - you may have. We recommend con - gression of a symptom or condition tinued follow-up with your personal tions that are incompatible with flight is likely and follow-up is required. A safety. Some of these conditions could physician and discussing any under - SODA generally has no expiration lying health condition with someone contribute to higher fatal and non-fatal date, while an SI is time-limited.

accident rates for light-sport aircraft knowledgeable in aviation medicine.

As a reminder, all holders of a pilot than for the rest of general aviation. Traditionally, the FAA has issued certificate under 14 CFR part 61 are BasicMed provides an alternate Class I, II, and III medicals. Typi - subject to the provisions of 14 CFR path to medical certification, although cally, these are needed for airline, part 61.53 regardless of whether you with limitations compared to a Class commercial, and private aviation require a medical certificate or chose III medical. I support this program, as activities, respectively. The standards either Sport Pilot or BasicMed.

it has made it easier for many pilots to and duration of these medicals are The medical pathway you choose return to the cockpit. I understand the governed by both your age at the time depends on your own medical history burden the special issuance (waiver) of the medical, as well as the class of and what type of aircraft you want to medical certification requirements medical requested.

fly. There are several paths available, can place on an individual. In fact, When an individual meets the stan - but the end goal to all is safety.

almost 30% of pilots using BasicMed dards (derived from 14 CFR part 67) had a special issuance (SI) at their last for a particular class of medical, Aero - Dr. Susan Northrup received a bachelor’s degree in medical (compared to less than 5% for space Medicine issues an unrestricted chemistry and a medical degree from The Ohio State Class III medical certificate holders). medical (no time limitations other University, as well as a master’s degree in public health from the University of Texas. She is double board certified We encourage BasicMed pilots to than the regulatory duration). There by the American Board of Preventive Medicine in Aerospace have frank and open discussions with are some conditions for which addi - Medicine and Occupational Medicine. She is a retired U.S.

their treating providers (hopefully tional information must be provided Air Force colonel and a former regional medical director for the person signing their BasicMed to your Aviation Medical Examiner Delta Air Lines. She is also an active private pilot.

November/December 2021 5

DR. LEO HATTRUP, FAA MEDICAL OFFICER CONDITION INSPECTION

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM AN FAA MEDICAL EXAM

The FAA authorizes all AMEs to letter of evidence if you pass appropri - issue Class II and III FAA medical ate alternate testing.

certificates, but Class I medical certif - The fee for the examination varies icates must be completed by a senior based on the region, the examiner, AME. For any class of medical certifi - and the class of medical you are seek - cate, the AME will review the history ing. The FAA does not determine the and answers you provide on your fee. If your case is complicated, such MedXPress 8500-8 application, your as a CACI, SODA, or SI, there may be lifetime medical history, including an additional charge.

medications, surgery, hospitalizations, As a reminder, there are ten condi - and medical conditions (even if now tions for which an SI is required, even resolved). Review the AME Guide for under BasicMed. This is generally Are you seeking your first FAA help ( bit.ly/AMEGuide ). a one-time requirement; however, medical certificate? Do you have a Having all your reports in order should the condition change after the medical condition that might make (complete, legible, and without dupli - issuance of the SI, a new SI might be it difficult to get certified? If the cation) is an excellent start. required. You can find more informa - answer is yes to either question, this We also recommend contacting tion at bit.ly/BasicMedFAQs (PDF).

article is for you.

your AME before your appointment For example, let’s say a pilot had a As Dr. Northrup notes in this issue’s to ensure you bring all the necessary heart attack treated with a stent and Aeromedical Advisory department, documentation. Your AME might was later granted a SI. A new stent, you can fly certain aircraft without even ask you to forward the informa - bypass surgery, or another heart attack holding a medical certificate. These tion prior to your appointment. Note would require the pilot to obtain a include ultralights, gliders, and bal - that your AME must transmit the new SI to continue under BasicMed.

loons. (Note, however, that Congress examination to the FAA within The FAA’s goal is to authorize as has mandated that the FAA require 14 days, so it’s best to obtain all many applicants as possible, and we commercial balloon operators in needed medical records before approve almost 99% of all appli - commercial aviation maintain a Class your appointment. cants. Of those applicants that we II medical certificate.) To fly light- Typically, you will walk out of your denied, 95% did not provide the sport aircraft (LSA), you only need AME’s office with a medical certif - requested information.

a driver’s license. For other aircraft, icate in hand. Delays occur when If you have any questions, please you need an FAA medical certificate.

additional information or evaluations reach out to your AME. You can However for BasicMed operations, the are necessary. Sometimes your AME also contact your FAA Regional airman must have had a FAA Medical simply needs existing documenta - Flight Surgeon’s office at Certificate valid for at least one day tion for a CACI (Conditions AMEs ( bit.ly/MedCertContacts ).

after July 14, 2006 that wasn’t subse - Can Issue) condition, for example. If We hope this information will quently denied, suspended, revoked, there is a disqualifying or potentially help facilitate your medical certifica - or withdrawn ( bit.ly/BasicMedCert ).

disqualifying condition, a further tion experience.

evaluation might be necessary before How To Find an Aviation Medical the FAA can authorize a medical cer - Leo M. Hattrup, M.D., received a bachelor’s degree from Examiner (AME) Wichita State University, a master’s in public health from tificate. If you adequately mitigate the Harvard University, and a doctorate from Vanderbilt Most pilots seeking an AME will use risk from the disqualifying condition, University. He is retired from the U.S. Air Force in which he their instructor/flight school, pilot the FAA can issue a special issuance spent the majority of his career in aerospace medicine. He acquaintances, advocacy groups, (SI) for conditions that can progress is board certified in aerospace and occupational medicine.

or search online. Go to bit.ly/Find - or a statement of demonstrated ability He is a certificated flight instructor and enjoys flying AnAME and select AME under the airplanes, helicopters, and gliders.

(SODA) for static conditions. For “Designee Types” tab.

color vision deficiency, we can issue a 6 FAA Safety Briefing

    

    

  
   

    



When I Grow Up,

I Want To Be An

How the FAA Helps To Launch Students

Into an Aviation Career

By Jennifer Caron Did you know that children are born scientists and “If you do what you love, mathematicians — testing, exploring, and questioning the you'll never work a day in your life.” world around them? Science, technology, engineering, and — Marc Anthony math support your child’s instinctive curiosity. These fields of study, also known as STEM subjects, play a critical role y d ad took me to my first airshow when I was in in a young aviator’s future. Early exposure to these disci - 4th grade, and that’s when I knew I wanted to be an plines prepares students not only for subsequent careers

M aviator. I met so many cool pilots, and I got to see

in the aviation and aerospace industries, but also for the neat airplanes and explore in the cockpit. Back then, most workforce of tomorrow.

of my friends wanted to be superheroes or ballerinas, but There are so many opportunities — not just for new not me — sitting right seat was my ultimate thrill ride, and pilots, dispatchers, air traffic controllers, maintenance I couldn’t wait to move to the command seat one day. The technicians, drone operators, and engineers — but also aviation bug had bitten me from the start, and I’ve been for cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, program smitten ever since.

managers, communication specialists, and other pro - There is no doubt in my mind that if my dad had not fessionals who play an essential role in the National introduced me to the wonders of aviation early on, I probably Airspace System.

would not have developed my “plane” passion that continues The aviation industry is quickly evolving, but at the same to this day. Research confirms it, and studies show that if you time, baby boomers are retiring in large numbers. Add that have a passion for something now, it more than likely came to our current shortfall in qualified aviators and mechanics, from an early childhood experience. Ask any of today’s aero - and you’re looking at a tremendous opportunity for today’s space engineers, pilots, or mechanics, and they can tell you students. That’s the good news. In fact, according to the what inspired them to pursue their career in aviation.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Aerospace Employment For some, it was their natural ability to fix things, taking is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029 — faster than them apart and putting them back together again — the the average for all occupations. In May 2020, the median right way. Others were hooked on math or science and annual wage for aerospace employees was $68,570. The their favorite superheroes were Bill Nye the Science Guy bad news: we’ve got a shortage today that’s projected to and Stephen Hawking. Still others, who could tell aircraft shrink the workforce of tomorrow. The demand to fill these types just by the sound they made, were always curious to STEM-related aerospace fields exists right now, and the learn the principles of flight and the forces that keep the need is only growing.

metal birds in the sky.

8 FAA Safety Briefing A program the FAA created to address this issue is the STEM Aviation and Space Education (STEM AVSED) Program. It’s mission: Promote aerospace STEM-based education, and Prepare and inspire the next generation for aviation and aerospace careers.

Aviation & Space Education

STEM AVSED is a catalyst to encourage elementary, sec - ondary, and college students to study and strengthen STEM skills. Its forward-thinking program introduces students to the

FUN and EDUCATIONAL

educational experience they will need to get those well-paying

aerospace jobs that are available and in high demand. STEM AVSED PROGRAMS

Let’s take a closer look at the STEM AVSED Program.

ACE ACADEMIES You’ll get to spend an entire week at a summer camp learn - STEM AVSED 101 ing about aviation ( faa.gov/education/ace_academy ).

Since 1935, the FAA and its predecessor organizations have been working with schools and colleges across the nation, and Lessons in flight planning, history, and the physics in partnership with other government agencies, industry, and of flight.

non-profit organizations to promote STEM education. Fast Field trips to aviation-related sites.

forward to the launch of Sputnik in 1957, signaling the start Instruction on aircraft design and maintenance.

of the space race. That’s when the FAA added space education to the mission, paving the way for the 1961 establishment of Flight simulations and aircraft flights.

the comprehensive program, STEM AVSED, to prepare and EAA and many other industry programs also offer inspire students for both aviation and aerospace careers.

aviation camps for middle and high school-aged students National FAA STEM AVSED Program Lead Jim Brough, ( bit.ly/EAACamps ).

(whom you’ll meet in this issue’s FAA Faces department), has worked with the program since 2008, collaborating MINECRAFT BUILD AN AIRPORT CHALLENGE with the regional STEM AVSED program analysts, FAA In 2020, the FAA created a fun and educational program employees, and the aerospace community working every called Airport Design Challenge. Here are some details day to provide information and quality programs for stu - about the program: dents and their educators.

Using Minecraft, teams recreated and built local The STEM AVSED program has four strategic goals: airports using 3D blocks.

Pipelines and Pathways to Aerospace Careers: Per - At the end of the contest, FAA staff scored each entry form student outreach to inspire the next generation for technical accuracy, creativity, innovation, and and provide them with pathways to aerospace careers.

demonstrated knowledge.

STEM Education for Every Student: Ensure access to Winners received certificates and enjoyed a fun, our outreach activities for all students, with a focus on hands-on way to learn about STEM, teamwork, and underrepresented and underserved communities.

problem solving.

Strategic Partnerships to Maximize Benefits: Collab - It’s free and anyone can join.

orate with industry, academia, and other government agencies to develop pipelines into aerospace careers.

Due to the great response from the public, the FAA is currently reviewing the program and hopes to re- Cross-agency Collaboration to Optimize the Pro - release it in the near future.

gram: Making the most of the FAA’s internal resources to raise student awareness of opportunities in aviation Stay tuned for more on this great program and aerospace.

( bit.ly/FAAMinecraft ).

The STEM AVSED program reaches thousands of Don’t miss the General Aviation Manufacturers students of every age and grade level nationwide each year.

Association (GAMA) Aviation Design Challenge where National, regional, and local partnerships with industry, high school students can compete to design an aircraft academia, government, and non-profits are the crucial ( bit.ly/GAMAChallenge ).

relationships that provide the resources, expertise, and net - works to help make this program such a huge success and a champion for students.

November/December 2021 9 Opportunities for Girls? Diverse Students? Youth with Disabilities?

PROGRAMS FOR WOMEN

Yes! The FAA is committed to building an aviation work - force of the future that reflects the diversity of our nation,

AND MINORITIES

and the STEM AVSED Program is at the forefront of that STEM AVSED partners with organizations such as Women initiative with “STEM for Every Student.” in Aviation International, the Organization of Black Aero - Our airspace is evolving, and diversity brings a wide space Professionals, and the International Black Aerospace range of life experiences, new ideas, and different per - Council, focused on attracting youth to pursue a career in spectives to the table. We’re looking at a future of drones, aviation. Close ties to colleges, universities, public school commercial space, air taxis, and increasingly complex systems, and other organizations with a high concentration cybersecurity needs. Embracing and cultivating diversity of underserved groups assist STEM AVSED in targeting creates an environment open to fresh approaches and students for inclusion from all minority groups, women, innovation to safely enable and address the challenges of and youth with disabilities.

our modern airspace. The ability to attract, develop, and Federal committees, such as the Women in Aviation retain a qualified, diverse workforce is essential to the Advisory Board and the Youth Access to American Jobs FAA’s safety mission.

in Aviation Task Force, are tasked to provide recommen - “It is a well-recognized fact that although aviation and dations to identify pathways for recruitment and detect aerospace provide excellent job opportunities for many barriers to equity and access.

women and minorities, there is currently a very small Here’s just a few of the many programs available: percentage in the aviation industry,” says Chris Sharp, Women in Aviation International: Education and manager in the FAA’s Aviation Workforce and Education career resources to encourage and advance women in division. Many lack awareness of aviation and aerospace as all aviation fields ( wai.org/resources ). Check out the a career path.

Aviation for Girls magazine! ( bit.ly/WAImagazine ) “STEM AVSED reaches out to and encourages young women and girls, more diverse students, and youth from all Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals: walks of life to pursue STEM education and to see them - Advancing and enhancing minority participation in selves in these careers,” says Sharp.

aviation. School career day events, summer programs, 10 FAA Safety Briefing Image courtesy of Women in Aviation International.

flight training academies, professional development ( obap.org ).

Fly For The Culture: Making the world of aviation accessible and affordable to all, regardless of race or ethnicity ( flyfortheculture.org ).

Visit faa.gov/education/partnerships to learn more.

Looking for Grants, Scholarships, FAA Internships?

Check out faa.gov/jobs/students/internships and find the organizations that can help finance your education at ( faa.gov/education/grants_and_scholarships ).

What Parents and Teachers Need to Know Educators, counselors, and parents help guide students to future aviation success, and STEM AVSED is here to support you. See page 12 to find aviation-themed curricula, virtual classroom visits, and the newly created Adopt-a- Click bit.ly/WAImagazine for the 2021 issue. You'll find all past School program.

issues here: wai.org/giad/issues.

Virtual and Free The FAA welcomed organizations like Women in Aviation “The unexpected benefit of going all virtual has really International, the National Air and Space Museum, and opened up the opportunity to expand our reach with larger Dreams Soar, started by Shaesta Waiz, the first female from and much broader audiences — any student can attend Afghanistan certified as a civilian pilot. Read “Meet Shaesta from anywhere,” says Sharp.

Waiz” in this issue to learn more about her amazing journey and work to empower young women and girls into aviation.

This past September, thousands of girls aged 8-17 from around the world participated in the free, Call To Action seventh Annual Girls in Aviation Day hosted by Let this be the moment that inspires a young aviator to pur - Women in Aviation International sue STEM and open the doors to a life-long and rewarding ( wai.org/girls-aviation-day-2021 ). Virtual events career in aviation. As a parent, teacher, friend, or counselor, included career panel videos, instructional and you are the wind beneath the wings of a student’s future learning activities, virtual tours, information about flight path.

scholarships and more, introducing girls to aviation careers and STEM.

Share this information with the future aviators in your life — Download the free Aviation for Girls app and spread the word!

to view the events and keep up to date But don’t stop there. There are many intersecting runways with year-round content, including to a career in aviation. Tell us what you’re doing to hands-on activities and videos of female reach the next generation. Reach out by email to role models in the industry 9-AHR-AVSED@faa.gov .

( wai.org/aviation-girls-2021-app ).

“When we get the community talking, connecting, and September also kicked off the FAA’s fourth annual, exchanging ideas, the pathways open,” says Sharp. We can free Aviation Safety STEM career symposium that set the flight plan for the next generation, as we share our included guest speakers, interactive visual presenta - passion with the aviators of tomorrow.

tions, STEM engagement activities, and opportunities for middle, high school, and college students to talk Jennifer Caron is FAA Safety Briefing’ s copy editor and quality assurance lead. She is a with aviation professionals certified technical writer-editor in the FAA’s Flight Standards Service.

( avsstemcareersymposium.vfairs.com ).

LEARN MORE In October, STEM AVSED sponsored a virtual, Girls in Aviation-themed pavilion at the USA Science and Engi - Additional Resources for Aviation and Aerospace Education neering Festival (SciFest) to spotlight aviation careers faa.gov/education/students/resources ( usasciencefestival.org ).

November/December 2021 11

Aviation-Themed STEM Lessons and Resources

heck out f aa.gov/education/educators . T o find Adopt-a-School aviation-themed STEM lessons and resources The newly created Adopt-a-School program pairs

C and the K-12 curriculum, check out

teachers with FAA Liaisons that come to your school.

faa.gov/education/educators/curriculum/k12 . For games, Initially, the program will work with your schools to puzzles, projects, and fun hands-on experiments for every teach six aerospace lessons for 4th grade students for grade level, visit faa.gov/education/students/activities .

free, with lessons and materials on a wide range of Don’t miss the Youth Access to American Jobs in STEM-related aerospace topics. The program launched Aviation Task Force public meetings. They’re live- during the 2021-22 school year with nine schools across streamed, include guest speakers from the aviation the country selected, based on a combination of factors community, and anyone can virtually attend. You’ll find including diversity and proximity to FAA facilities.

a YouTube playlist of past meetings at bit.ly/YAAJATF .

Adopt-a-School provides a unique learning opportunity Industry programs offer STEM aviation curricula for students. Stay tuned at faa.gov/education/students as well: for more on this innovative new program as it grows in future years.

Check out AOPA’s free High School Aviation STEM curriculum for high school teachers Virtual Classroom Visits ( youcanfly.aopa.org ).

At the heart of STEM AVSED are close to 1,700 FAA Discover the Experimental Aircraft Association’s employees who train as outreach representatives to (EAA) AeroEducate. It’s free, with turnkey avia - share their time, expertise, and passion for aviation with tion-themed activities for teachers of kids students aged K through 12. Since 2016, the program aged 5 to 18. EAA also offers free introductory has tapped into FAA employees and industry partners (Young Eagles) flights for students who are drone pilots, mechanics, engineers, and so much ( eaa.org/eaa/youth/free-ye-flights ).

more to cultivate students’ love for STEM education and Choose this site for an aviation maintenance- to consider aviation careers. They visit schools, scout focused curriculum for students interested in programs, community events, etc., (now virtually, due to aviation technical training ( chooseaerospace.org ).

COVID-19) to serve as online guest presenters, virtual science fair judges, conduct virtual job shadow sessions, Find fun and interactive FAA aviation and aerospace educational videos on YouTube introduce fundamental aviation concepts to students, and conduct educator workshops with learning packets ( bit.ly/AviationAerospaceFAA ).

for teachers and parents to use at home.

continued on page 27 12 FAA Safety Briefing

Beyond the Flight Deck

Non-Flying Work in the Aviation World

By James Williams Time lapse photo of arrivals into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Flying is only one piece of an elaborate aviation system.

e’ve all been there. You’re at a junction point in your life, maybe after graduating from high school or

W college, or after a milestone birthday, where you need

to either change a career or start one. In the pages of this training and career-focused issue of FAA Safety Briefing , we tend to focus on the pilot centric world . However, aviation is filled with opportunities that don’t involve actually piloting an aircraft. We’ve looked at a few of these career options in the past — see p. 20 of our September/October 2016 issue, “The Airway Less Travelled.” Here are a few more options to consider should you desire a non-flying career in aviation.

Keep ‘em Flying, Safely Aircraft are fickle beasts. Their care and feeding is no easy task because they are fundamentally a system of systems.

Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) are required to understand how to repair and keep these systems in good working order. While there are some similarities with the work of automotive technicians, the stakes in the aviation world are much higher since you can’t just pull over and wait for the tow truck.

“You need to have a love for air - craft,” explains Mike Dunkley, the 2021 National Aviation Technician of the Year. “It’s not just doing the work of a mechanic — you can do that on a car. I Mike Dunkley November/December 2021 13 Sarah Patten. Sarah is also a pilot, in addition to working as an air traffic controller, so she knows what it’s like to be on both sides of the mic.

know there’s a shortage of aviation mechanics in the U.S.

today, so we need them, but we need people with a love of aircraft too.” Dunkley emphasizes the need to work with pilots to determine the root cause of maintenance issues due to their highly integrated systems. “I might have a pilot who says, ‘I have this problem,’ and then digging deeper I discover that there’s an associated problem which caused that problem, and that wasn’t the original problem anyway.” According to Dunkley, the bottom line is to get the full story.

Dunkley has another piece of advice for those currently in or getting into the field of aviation maintenance. “Check it, and check it again. After completing a job, put your inspector’s hat on, and look at what you just did,” says Dunkley. Ask yourself — “Did I perform the work correctly and in accordance with the appropriate airworthiness stan - dards and maintenance manuals? Yes, it may take a little longer, but you’re going to be satisfied with the work, and it’s going to be a safe product by the time you release that airplane back into flying status again,” he explains.

For more information on becoming an AMT, visit faa.gov/mechanics/become .

Command the Sky “I had never even considered a job as an air traffic control - ler,” says Sarah Patten, Air Traffic Control Specialist at the FAA’s Potomac Consolidated Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON). Patten started her aviation career as a pilot and flight instructor, but in 2008 she was convinced to apply for an FAA job as an air traffic controller (ATC). “I’m so glad I took a chance and applied,” Patten explains. “The job has been so interesting, and I’ve had some incredible opportunities along the way.” 14 FAA Safety Briefing NASA image.

Potomac TRACON handles air traffic control services for the Baltimore-Washington, D.C. and Richmond-Char - lottesville, Virginia regions. “The increased security of the airspace can be a bit intimidating to pilots, but once you know how it works, it’s really not that scary,” says Patten.

She uses her pilot and instructor skills to help fellow pilots navigate that complex and restricted airspace. She also participates in Potomac TRACON’s Operation Raincheck (when available), which allows pilots to learn how ATC works from the controller’s side.

If you are interested in becoming an Air Traffic Control Specialist, visit faa.gov/jobs/career_fields/aviation_careers .

With change comes opportunity

and right now there’s a lot of

A concept image provided by NASA of a fully developed UTM system.

change in aviation.

have good tools at the time, other than our own judgment, to decide what was safe. That's when I learned about the And Now for Something Completely Different UTM concept. I realized I could contribute to it since I had a lot of background knowledge, not just from work - Well, not exactly, but here’s something far less defined than ing air traffic, but also from being a flight instructor, and the previous entries. With change comes opportunity and understanding some of the FAA's systems like the Standard right now there’s a lot of change in aviation. This fact is Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS) radar especially applicable to the introduction of Unmanned Air - and the electronic flight strip prototypes.” craft Systems (UAS) Traffic Management (UTM). There’s UTM is full of unsolved problems, and I've come to rel - a tremendous fervor around how UAS can be used to rev - ish working in a space where we don't have all the answers olutionize aviation. But the key to that revolution is UTM yet, let alone how to make them a reality,” says Sachs. “The — how to safely get those new operators into the National work we're doing now, whether technical or regulatory, Airspace System (NAS). So if you like solving complex will shape future systems in 10, 20, even 30 years’ time, and problems, then UTM might be for you.

probably in ways we can't quite fathom. That makes it a “I used to be an air traffic controller at San Francisco really fun set of challenges for me.” International Airport (SFO), and by early 2017, I was When asked what advice he would have for someone hearing a lot about drones as the FAA rolled out the interested in UTM, Sachs explains that much of what you Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability need to know can be learned on the job. “This is an emerg - (LAANC),” says FAA UTM Implementation Program ing and quickly growing field, so if you don't know the Manager Peter Sachs. “We got several requests at SFO from answer, it's possible that no one else does either. That's an people wanting to fly drones near the airport, but we didn't opportunity for you to find a new approach.” Sachs con - tinues, “I went to school for sociology and journalism and took flying lessons in my free time. Everything else, includ - ing everything I do that counts as — ‘systems engineering,’ are skills I picked up along the way. You also don't need to be a software engineer or a coder, although learning how to talk to those teams is certainly helpful,” Sachs explains. He believes the most essential qualification is a desire to keep learning, and lots of curiosity.

As you can see, there are several career paths that exist beyond the bounds of the flight deck. You have options that let you join the aviation world with or without a pilot certificate — so take a look!

James Williams is FAA Safety Briefing ’s associate editor and photo editor. He is also a pilot and ground instructor.

Peter Sachs November/December 2021 15

Picking Up STEAM

How FAA-Industry Collaboration

Keeps Training Real

By Susan K. Parson ne of the many clichés batted about in the flying use of the MB = MH + RB formula for the fixed-card ADF.

world is that a new avia tion certificate or rating is a I didn’t quite believe the ground school instructor’s “you O “license to learn.” It is true that the achievement is won’t really need this” assurance until I saw for myself a starting point, and it is also true that we should always that (a) fixed card ADF instruments were already mostly be learning. Still, I was shocked by how many times my extinct, and (b) determining the bearing to or from an private pilot ground school instructor emphas ized some NDB didn’t require mental math.

point, but immediately assured us that we didn’t need to So, you could say I had lots of objections to the “the recall it for long. Rather, we could just memorize what - written” as it was constructed.

ever it was and, “because you don’t really need that,” we could forget it as soon as we had successfully passed “the A Decade of Progress written” (aka the knowledge test) and/or the oral portion It seems I had plenty of company. When the opportunity of the practical test. Huh?!

arose in 2011 for the FAA to team up with experts in the Two subsequent events reinforced both my instructor’s aviation community to address this problem, there was well-meaning assurance and my budding outrage about no shortage of eager volunteers. Since then, the FAA has devoting time and effort to irrelevant material. The first worked with several diverse and highly qualified groups was my experience in taking the knowledge test. Even as I of aviation industry experts to find a better way. The team dutifully churned through the multi-step process required includes advocacy groups, instructor organizations, aca - to answer a particular question, I thought it was ridiculous.

demia, courseware providers, manufacturers, part 61, 121, The overly complex question required me first to pore over 141, and 142 training providers, and some very knowledge - several badly rendered weather charts and use that infor - able individuals, along with FAA employees from a variety mation to perform multiple interpolations across several of specialties and policy divisions.

performance charts. The result of these careful calculations The first results of this ongoing effort — the Airman was a two — yes, two (!!) — knot wind difference. Adding Certification Standards (ACS) for the Private Pilot-Air - insult to injury was the fact that the calculations were for plane certificate and the Instrument Rating for airplane an altitude I could not possibly reach in a GA airplane.

— replaced the corresponding Practical Test Standards The second reinforcing event came when I was intro - (PTS) documents in June 2016. Several additional PTS-to- duced to the automatic direction finder (ADF), an airborne ACS transitions have been published since then, and still navigation instrument now vanishing as quickly as the more are in queue for release. For those new to aviation, ground-based non-directional beacons (NDB) that sup - the ACS is fundamentally an enhanced version of the PTS.

ported it. Ground school drills, practice exams, and the It adds task-specific knowledge and risk management ele - actual “written” test were chock full of questions requiring ments to each PTS Area of Operation and Task. The result 16 FAA Safety Briefing is a comprehensive document that integrates the standards for what an applicant needs to know, consider, and do in order to pass both the knowledge test and the practical test for a certificate or rating, and to operate safely in the National Airspace System (NAS).

The lion's share of the work on the ACS project is the FAA is reviewing the DPER Working Group’s final accomplished by the aviation community participants who report and recommendations to plan next steps.

volunteer for the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Com - Also new in the realm of testing is a requirement for all mittee (ARAC) working group. Our aviation community recreational drone flyers to pass an aeronautical knowledge partners in the ACS project have helped not only with the and safety test. Introduced earlier this year, The Recre - massive task of creating the ACS, but also with recom - ational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) is a free online exam mending how FAA handbooks should be revised to align divided into two sections. The first section provides the with the ACS and stay fully up to date. In addition, their information needed to pass the test. The second is a series work has provided both the framework (i.e., the ACS) of multiple-choice questions. The questions are designed and the flexibility (i.e., freed-up resources) for the FAA to such that if you answer one incorrectly, you get informa - develop meaningful knowledge test questions.

tion on why the answer you chose was incorrect and will be prompted to try again.

Testing, Testing The FAA developed TRUST in three stages. First, the Given the success of the collaborative effort to develop agency developed the test content with input from drone the ACS, there was no shortage of volunteers for a more stakeholders. The next step was a Request for Information recent effort: the Designated Pilot Examiner Reforms seeking to work with drone stakeholders on test adminis - (DPER) Working Group. This activity arose from a 2018 tration. On June 22, the FAA announced FAA-approved congressional mandate for the FAA to ask the ARAC TRUST Test Administrators. As with other elements of to review regulations and policies related to designated aviation training and testing, the FAA will continue work - pilot examiners.

ing with expert stakeholders to keep TRUST up to date and In accordance with this mandate, the FAA formally relevant to real world activity.

asked the ARAC in June 2019 to provide advice and recom - mendations on reforms needed to ensure the FAA’s ability Better Together to deploy a sufficient number of DPEs. As in the case of the Leveraging industry expertise to accomplish the kind of ARAC ACS Working Group, numerous individuals and work described here is essential. As much as we like to fly organizations requested participation. The FAA selected a and teach, there is no way that FAA employees can hope to diverse group of technical experts who could collectively stay as current as those who work in the aviation training represent all major sectors. The DPER Working Group world every day. While the agency cannot accommodate began its work in October 2019 and submitted its final every recommendation it receives from aviation commu - report to ARAC in June 2021.

nity stakeholders, the kind of open communication and The DPER Working Group’s recommendations focus collaboration established over the past decade is critical to around three areas: selection, training and mentorship, keeping FAA training and testing materials relevant — and and deployment and oversight. It provided extensive real — to everyone who operates in the NAS.

details on these three themes. In addition, the final report takes note of benefits from use of an industry-developed Susan K. Parson (susan.parson@faa.gov) is editor of FAA Safety Briefing and a Special Assis - code of conduct for designees. At the time of this writing, tant in the FAA’s Flight Standards Service. She is a general aviation pilot and flight instructor.

LEARN MORE FAA Airman Testing webpage faa.gov/training_testing/testing DPE Reforms Working Group Final Report bit.ly/DPEreforms TRUST Test for UAS bit.ly/FAATRUST November/December 2021 17

E

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Trailblazer, Mentor, and

a Global Inspiration

for Women in Aviation

By Tom Hoffmann All photos courtesy of Dreams Soar, Inc.

here is a small, but elite group of aviators who have Shaesta considered to be the most notable and important earned their membership in the “earth-rounders” part of her around-the-world trip. Emboldened by her T club by flying around the world in a light aircraft. ability to make a lasting impression on thousands of youth, This group, which includes the likes of Wiley Post, Amelia this leg of her journey continues to this day.

Earhart, and Dick Rutan, gained some esteemed company A Dream was Born in 2017 when then 30 year-old Shaesta Waiz completed her round-the-world flight in a Beechcraft Bonanza , duly Shaesta wasn’t always crazy about flying. After fleeing dubbed the Dream Catcher . In addition to this amazing Afghanistan with her family in 1987, Shaesta grew up in feat of flying that spanned 145 days, 22 countries, and Richmond, Calif., with her parents and five sisters. She nearly 25,000 nautical miles, her accomplishment comes had little to no exposure to aviation, except for the news or with some important distinctions that put her in some occasional airline disaster show on television, which ironi - truly rarified air.

cally fomented a fear of flying. It wasn’t until a commercial flight at age 18 during a family vacation to Florida when everything changed. The formative and freeing experience

Shaesta’s record-breaking

of flight gave Shaesta an instant sense of belonging, which

round-the-world flight spanned

for years she had struggled to come to terms with. “I was

145 days, 22 countries, and nearly

always too American to be truly Afghani, and too Afghani 25,000 nautical miles.

to be truly American,” she explains. But after the flight, she found a place where she could claim her true identity: her First, Shaesta became the youngest female pilot in his - mind was set on becoming a pilot.

tory to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft.

While earning her pilot certificates and pursuing a degree ( Note — at the time of this writing, Belgian teen Zara Ruth - at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Shaesta’s erford is hot on her heels in pursuit of this record. ) Shaesta career path in aviation began taking shape. But instead of also accomplished her historic flight as the first female pursuing an airline or military flying job, Shaesta decided civilian certificated pilot from Afghanistan, becoming a her true passion was helping to inspire other people dis - critical beacon of inspiration to the millions of women cover their own passions — particularly those who, like her, in her native country who aspire to have careers in the remain vastly underrepresented in the aviation industry.

science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.

“I realized that I needed to do something with my story,” Superlatives aside, it was her educational outreach role that says Shaesta, reflecting on her family’s refugee experience 18 FAA Safety Briefing AFGHANISTAN CANADA Shaesta interacted with more than 3,000 youth in 22 countries during her round-the-world trip.

and growing up as a minority female in an underprivileged Of course, with a trip as long and complicated as this, city. “More importantly, I wanted to talk to young kids things are bound to go awry. Shaesta had her share of about believing in themselves, taking a leap of faith, and challenges along the way, including mechanical issues, going after things they are passionate about.” unexpected weather, and a rather frustrating bout of head She started with the Women’s Ambassador Program, lice towards the end. On the longest and most stressful leg an initiative that helps mentor and support young women of the flight, from Honolulu to Hayward, Calif., an extra pursuing an education in aviation and engineering. Her one-knot of headwind forced her to turn around three efforts soon shifted to a more global scale. After meeting hours into the flight. Shaesta was understandably frus - Barrington Irving, a Jamaican-born pilot and fellow earth- trated, but proud of her decision to call out mission creep rounder, she got the idea of doing a round-the-world flight when she saw it, especially in light of the razor thin safety to expand her outreach platform. margins for this leg of her flight.

“It wasn’t my mission to set any kind of world record,” Coming Full Circle says Shaesta, who admits not even knowing who held the record before her. Instead, her goal was to reach as many On her next attempt at reaching the California shore, children in as many countries as she could to help spread she encountered unavoidable dense fog. Despite feeling her “Yes, you can fly!” message. To help facilitate these fatigued, Shaesta remained laser-focused on her instru - efforts and gain support for her flight, she founded Dreams ments, wondering at times if she was even moving. “When Soar ( dreamssoar.org ), a non-profit organization dedicated I finally heard ATC’s voice on the radio, it sounded like to sharing and promoting the importance of STEM educa - opera!” she exclaimed. Her arrival into Hayward was all tion for girls and young women.

the more rewarding given it was just a stone’s throw from her Bay Area hometown. “It sounds cheesy, but at that Let the Flight Begin moment, it dawned on me that you really can achieve any - After several years of planning, Shaesta’s round-the-world thing you set your mind to.” trip finally took flight in May 2017 with 30 stops strate - gically selected to maximize STEM outreach. With the help of sponsors, local ground support, and various civil aviation authorities (including the FAA), Shaesta was able to inspire and visit with more than 3,000 children during the trip. Highlights included a stop in her native Afghanistan to discuss STEM opportunities with its for - mer president and an incredibly warm welcome in Egypt where authorities arranged for an all-female crew of air traffic controllers to handle her flight. “I was really blown away by the hospitality I received,” said Shaesta. “It was simply incredible.” Shaesta also made sure to take time during the flight to reflect on the personal significance of her voyage. She remarks that when reaching the “point of no return” over the Atlantic Ocean, pride washed over her when she realized that only seven other women had crossed this ocean solo in a general aviation aircraft. “It felt special that this was something I uniquely shared with someone like Amelia Earhart.” November/December 2021 19 INDIA FIJI Shaesta interacted with more than 3,000 youth in 22 countries during her round-the-world trip.

That sense of accomplishment is the very thing Shaesta In and On the Air worked hard to instill in the minds of youth during her At EAA’s Airventure 2021, Shaesta launched another new flight. It didn’t take long to see the fruits of her labor, and exciting outreach platform — her AVIATE with Shaesta either. Thanks to Shaesta’s inspiration, a young woman she podcast, which brings together female aviators to have encountered in Spain immediately began flight training open and honest conversations about what it means to to pursue her dream of flying. Over the years, Shaesta has be a woman in aviation. Discussion topics have spanned watched her blossom from a student pilot to a now gain - everything from balancing motherhood and flying, to fully employed commercial pilot.

dealing with social media pressures, to mental health issues. Shaesta is pleased with the podcast’s success thus far, From STEM to Stern including its ability to attract many international listeners.

Since her historic flight, Shaesta has continued her work She plans to wrap up season one with a celebration event at with Dreams Soar, promoting STEM outreach to nine addi - the National Business Aviation Association’s annual confer - tional countries and hosting another 30 outreach events to ence in October and begin the planning process for season a total of 12,000 children. Going forward, Shaesta is excited two in 2022.

about inspiring the next generation of aviators by focusing To augment her podcast, Shaesta also launched an app the organization on three main pillars: outreach, scholar - that she based on building a community for female avia - ships, and innovation. Dreams Soar presented its first flight tors. “What if there is an aspiring aviator who wants to be a training scholarship in 2019 to a woman at ERAU and pilot, but has questions about motherhood? Who does she hopes to provide more.

turn to?” asks Shaesta. The idea is to continue the import - ant conversations she has with podcast guests in a more intimate setting on the app. Shaesta hopes to be able to host Shaesta decided her true passion live discussions on the app as well with herself or other

was helping to inspire other people

experts. Find out more about the app and catch up on all

discover their own passions —

the podcast episodes here: aviatewithshaesta.com .

particularly those who, like her, Embracing the Future

remain vastly underrepresented in

On a more personal note, Shaesta has focused much of her the aviation industry.

energy in recent years on starting a family and maintaining a residence overseas, leaving her little time for personal flying.

Her educational outreach activities have also received She aims to get back to more regular flying with aspirations the attention of the FAA, who made Shaesta an official of some future glider and aerobatic training. “I also like the STEM ambassador for the agency in 2020. “The FAA has idea of teaching,” says Shaesta, “I feel like the perspectives always been very supportive of my activities, including the I’ve gained would be fun to impart.” No matter what, Shaesta round-the-world flight,” said Shaesta. “Since we were doing says flying will always be a part of her identity.

a lot of the same work in terms of engagement and out - That same belief goes to the core of her outreach messag - reach, it just made sense to collaborate efforts.” ing. “You need to embrace who you are and embrace your This new symbiotic relationship allows Shaesta to challenges,” says Shaesta. “You might not see people like showcase the work of Dreams Soar at different events, you in aviation — but that’s a cue that you’re needed. The while also helping people understand the FAA’s organi - aviation community is an incredible community to be a zational values and safety mission. Shaesta collaborated part of, and we need more people that look different to be a with the FAA on one such event — the USA Science and part of it so that it is more diverse and inclusive.” Engineering Festival (SciFest) this past October, where As for ways that you, the GA community, can help she helped support a Girls in Aviation themed pavilion.

inspire interest in aviation and STEM careers, Shaesta 20 FAA Safety Briefing SRI LANKA SINGAPORE Shaesta interacted with more than 3,000 youth in 22 countries during her round-the-world trip.

offers that engagement is essential. “Keep showing up, keep Terrific advice for Zara, as well as for future generations sharing your stories, keep inspiring. Whether you think of young aviators!

it might help or not, at one point in a youth’s journey to becoming a pilot, they’re going to remember the people Tom Hoffmann is the managing editor of FAA Safety Briefing magazine. He is a commercial pilot and holds an Airframe and Powerplant mechanic certificate.

who were there contributing their time. It just takes one person to inspire another, so any contribution you can LEARN MORE make is going to have an impact on the bigger picture.” In line with her own advice, Shaesta has magnanimously offered counsel to 19-year old Zara Rutherford, who is Dream Soar video currently on her way to beating Shaesta’s record as the bit.ly/DreamsSoarVideo youngest female to solo around the globe ( read about Zara’s A Passion for Aviation video flight at flyzolo.com ) . “I wished her safety and success, and bit.ly/AviationPassion to go out there and show the world that women are capable of doing great things.” November/December 2021 21

Small Props for

BIG

CHANGE

Dive into Drone Jobs

By Paul Cianciolo pportunities to take to the skies are more abundant If you want to go beyond recreational flying and become today than ever before in human history. You don’t a pro, then you will need a Remote Pilot certificate to fly a O even need to leave the ground to fly anymore. With drone under 55 pounds. This is commonly called a “Part nearly one million drones registered, opportunities to 107 Certificate” because the rules are outlined under 14 either professionally pilot, or work on unmanned aircraft CFR part 107. These rules cover any small drone flying for systems (UAS) or drones, are ripe for the taking. any non-recreational purpose. The sky’s the limit as long as If you are interested in expanding your remote flying you are following the rules.

skills, or want to encourage a future aviator into a career Use Your Skills Where You Work working with drones, then read on.

Many companies and organizations are using drones as It All Starts With TRUST tools to get a job done more efficiently and safely. Fire - Do you know what it takes to fly a drone? Find out by fighters can get a bird’s eye view to understand where to taking The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). It’s free, send resources during an emergency. Police can keep an and you can’t fail it. TRUST is also required if you want to eye from above to keep the public safe. Utilities can inspect fly a drone for fun. wind turbines, pipelines, and power lines. Farmers can 22 FAA Safety Briefing inspect crops and spray for pests. Rescuers can use sen - The Prop Tip sors to save lives. Real estate agents can show buyers more The drone industry grows every day. One last tip in order angles to sell a property. Insurance adjusters can better to stand out in the crowd — record your hours/experience.

examine property damage from a distance and in less time.

Even if you are just starting out with some recreational fly - Cinematographers can capture unique shots. And retailers ing, keep a log. Record the time you spend at the controls, can deliver products more precisely.

the type of flying you are doing, and any training you take.

There are many more uses, but you get the picture. There Just like traditional aviation, your logbook (paper or elec - may even be a use for a drone operation where you work.

tronic) is your best resume. Your drone log could just be the key to convincing your company to let you fly a drone Go Drone or Go Home for them or get that job in the drone industry. In addition For those trying to figure out what to study in college, to documenting your experience, a log can show that you there are now direct vectors right into the world of drones.

are serious about a drone career.

Many universities are now offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in drone operations. Additionally, STEM education Paul Cianciolo is an associate editor and the social media lead for FAA Safety Briefing . He is a careers from K-12 and higher are in demand. U.S. Air Force veteran, and an auxiliary airman with Civil Air Patrol.

You don’t need a drone degree, though, to work for a drone company or teach students. The drone industry is LEARN MORE bursting with opportunity. New companies specializing in drone operations, development, manufacturing, and design TRUST are spreading across the country.

bit.ly/FAATRUST There is more to the drone industry than just flying.

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems Interna - Part 107 Remote Pilot bit.ly/UASComm tional (AUVSI) is one place to look for these types of jobs.

Positions range from engineering (software, mechanical, Drones for Educational Users electrical, Java, etc.) to project management, business bit.ly/UASEd development, geographic information systems (GIS), AUVSI Job Search research, aviation safety, and sales. Go to auvsi.org or your auvsi.org favorite job search website to take a look at opportunities available today.

November/December 2021 23

SUSAN K. PARSON CHECKLIST

OPTIMIZING OPTIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Mentoring certainly “ Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction. ” involves sharing your own experience and ideas. But if — John Crosby you don’t quite know where or Aviation is a big world. Even for how to start with encouraging those who have a sharply focused Aviation & Space Education science, technology, engi - aviation goal, it’s not always easy to neering, and math (STEM) navigate the many avenues to aviation.

• Technical Operations Specialist — education as a pathway to aviation, There is great value in having a mentor manage various technical aspects of the FAA’s STEM Aviation and Space to help illuminate the many pathways aircraft operations Education (AVSED) program offers and possibilities. Like the original For curriculum and activity support — both directly to educators Mentor, a character in The Odyssey , a resources, the AVSED site’s K-12 and students, but also to those who modern-day mentor is a trusted advi - curriculum (link below) includes want some ideas for mentoring.

sor who provides one-to-one support, ideas and examples of various avia - One of the most important things encouragement, and advice.

tion-themed lessons, which can serve you can convey is that aviation career as a guide and resource for educators, opportunities go far beyond piloting IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE parents, and mentors. These lessons an aircraft or a drone. STEM education and activities introduce students to OR HOW TO START WITH can provide the foundation for a wide STEM using aviation-based topics.

range of aviation job options, such as: ENCOURAGING STEM EDUCATION Along with its partners, the FAA • Air Traffic Control Specialist — is proud to offer the STEM AVSED AS A PATHWAY TO AVIATION, promote airplane safety by directing program to students and educators the movement of air traffic THE FAA’S STEM AVIATION AND worldwide. Join us in using STEM • Electrician — install, maintain, and to help prepare and inspire the next SPACE EDUCATION (AVSED) repair aircraft electrical systems generation of skilled professionals for PROGRAM OFFERS SUPPORT.

• Engineer — design and develop air - aviation and aerospace careers!

craft and related aviation/aerospace One of the mentor’s most important technologies Susan K. Parson ( susan.parson@faa.gov ) is editor of FAA functions is to share experience and Safety Briefing and a Special Assistant in the FAA’s Flight • Flight Attendant — travel the world insights that can help a less- Standards Service. She is a general aviation pilot and and ensure the safety and comfort experienced colleague learn faster and flight instructor.

of airplane passengers make fewer mistakes along the way. If • Ground Crew Member — support you are an experienced pilot, you can LEARN MORE many aspects of the aircraft while contribute by being a mentor to others.

it's on the runway As Khalil Gibran offers in The Prophet : FAA STEM AVSED the teacher/mentor “gives not of his • Mechanic — inspect, diagnose, faa.gov/education/about wisdom, but rather of his faith and and repair aircraft AVSED Virtual Learning his lovingness … If he is indeed wise, • Pilot — fly aircraft (including faa.gov/education/virtual_learning he does not bid you enter the house drones) for pleasure, recreation, of his wisdom, but rather leads you to AVSED K-12 Curriculum or career the threshold of your own mind.” By faa.gov/education/educators/curriculum/k12 • Safety Inspector — develop and offering a sounding board, a fresh per - Aviation Career Academy (ACE) administer aircraft safety standards spective, and simple encouragement to faa.gov/education/ace_academy • Sales and Service Representative — help build confidence, the mentor can assist airline passengers with flight Aviation & Aerospace Resources play a vital role in helping someone faa.gov/education/students/resources travel details discern their own pathways.

24 FAA Safety Briefing 24 FAA Safety Briefing

ALINA GEORGE AND DIANA ROBINSON DRONE DEBRIEF

STEM AND UAS EDUCATION

The concept and development of these characteristics at an science, technology, engineering, early age, when young minds and math (STEM) education has a are excited about learning, long history in the United States, imparts lifelong critical and its importance continues to the thinking skills.

present day. The FAA’s STEM Avia - Unlike with traditional aircraft, tion and Space Education drones offer fewer barriers into (AVSED) Program has aviation which increases the reach to taken a strategic approach students for new and exciting careers historically excluded communities, in reaching out to schools: through in the drone workforce. Currently, women, and people with disabilities. engagement, providing resources, 84 schools across the U.S. are partici - For students in middle and high and implementing STEM-aviation pating in the UAS-CTI program with school, drones open many doors to programs such as Adopt-a-School.

new applications coming in every career opportunities from piloting to This year, drones were included in month. Many of the participating engineering to filmography. the STEM AVSED lessons.

schools host drone summer camps The drone industry is the fastest Industry, academia, as well as local, and partner with local K-12 schools growing segment in aviation, and state, and tribal governments, have to teach and encourage drones in the drones are truly an equalizer for stu - partnered with the FAA’s BEYOND classroom. It has been an incredibly dents interested in aviation. Operating and the Alliance for System Safety of successful program. You can read a drone is relatively inexpensive, UAS (ASSURE) programs to encour - more about the UAS-CTI program in exciting, and a fun hobby that can eas - age STEM education.

the article, “Engaging with Academia,” ily serve as an entry point to engage in In 2020, the FAA launched the UAS in our May/June 2021 issue STEM activities and future careers. Collegiate Training Initiative (UAS- ( bit.ly/FAASB-Arc ).

Drones also play an important CTI). The UAS-CTI created a network role in fostering curiosity, creativity, of universities, colleges, technical OPERATING A DRONE IS and analytical thinking. Establishing schools, and institutions to prepare RELATIVELY INEXPENSIVE, EXCITING, AND A FUN HOBBY THAT CAN EASILY SERVE AS AN ENTRY POINT FOR STUDENTS TO ENGAGE IN STEM ACTIVITIES.

The FAA’s UAS Integration Office and the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) DronePros also participate in STEM conferences, symposiums, and events.

They too are passionate about STEM education and volunteer regularly in STEM activities.

Alina George and Diana Robinson are project specialists in the Operational Programs Branch of the FAA’s Office of UAS Integration.

High school students in California participating in a drone summer camp hosted by the UAS Technical Education Program (UASTEP), the University of California, Irvine, and local high school teachers.

November/December 2021 25 November/December 2021 25

JENNIFER CARON NUTS, BOLTS, AND ELECTRONS

SAFETY IS A JOURNEY

Eligible training also includes Technology is advancing at a rapid rate — it changes almost daily. Staying aviation maintenance career-re - lated training in such categories proficient to meet the needs of tomor - row’s workforce is not easy, but it is as technology, human factors, and certain courses from an accred - important for each aviation main - tenance technician (AMT) to take a ited trade school or university.

personal interest in continued and You can enter your eligible recurrent training.

training in the My AMT tab The FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) under Enter Eligible Training .

is committed to helping you achieve Pro Tip: Keep a personal log the highest level of safety by pro - to document all completed viding the "tools" and resources you training and recent experience need to enhance your knowledge requirements. Keep all your and proficiency.

training certificates.

Take advantage of the free or low cost training on FAASafety.gov . You Manufacturers, repair stations, and FAASTeam members will be recognized, awarded, and become a safer technician. develop courses for AMT credit with a focus on accident/incident Take a look at the special training Get An Award for Initial and causal factors, special emphasis Recurrent Training projects on risk management and items, and regulatory issues.

human error in the maintenance Participate in the AMT Awards Pro - There’s a different core course hangar tab, and you’ll also discover gram to get your award for receiving, each year. Next year’s course — resources on everything from mainte - promoting, and fostering initial and Ethics for Aviation Maintainers .

nance alerts and safety tips to stan - recurrent maintenance training.

Technicians who successfully dards, regulations, and scholarships Register on FAASafety.gov to meet the program requirements for up-and-coming mechanics.

enroll in the awards program.

within a given calendar year will If you have any questions or Complete the online Core Course obtain a certificate of training, need help, contact Guy Minor at — A Case for Non-Technical and a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Guy.D.Minor@faa.gov .

Training (ALC-666) — click on AMT Award!

The learning process never ends.

the Maintenance Hangar tab and Your employer can also get a Gold Keep an open manual and an open you’ll find it under My AMT .

or Diamond Award of Excellence mind. As the Mechanic’s Creed You can complete the course in based on the number of techni - says, “… the safety and lives of others multiple sessions, and then take cians in the company that receive are dependent upon (your) skill the exam. an award each year.

and judgment.” Second time’s a charm — if you Train From Home or Hangar didn’t pass the first time, you Jennifer Caron is FAA Safety Briefing ’s copy editor and qual - You’ll also find thousands of free, can re-take the exam right after ity assurance lead. She is a certified technical writer-editor online safety and risk reduction semi - in the FAA’s Flight Standards Service.

your first try.

nars and webinars that you can attend Need a refresher? You can take virtually. There’s online courses avail - LEARN MORE the course again 90 days later able too. Most are free or low cost.

and receive additional AMT or Need to renew your inspection FAA Information and Services for Mechanics WINGS program credit.

authorization? There’s a list of IA faa.gov/mechanics renewal courses and programs as well.

26 FAA Safety Briefing

Continued from page 12

Be All You Can Be

Brandan Dadoun is just 17 years old and already has his private Museum, inspiring a significant number of teen volunteers to join.

pilot’s certificate with instrument privileges. This past September, he As a trainer in a volunteer network of air traffic controllers, he helps received the Western Pacific Regional Administrator’s Aviation Partner pilots obtain real-world experience on the mic. He also developed an Award that honors individuals who aviation network at his high school with activities, airport visits, and promote, improve, and support opportunities for students to sit left seat in an aircraft. These are just flight safety. Brandan is an FAA a few of Brandan’s accomplishments as he continues on his flight path Safety Team (FAASTeam) Rep in to motivate, inform, and encourage young adults to experience the the San Jose district and enjoys passion he holds for aviation.

producing and writing an average Check out Stevie Triesenberg, a top aviation influencer on TikTok of three seminars a week. Over the @planegirl , and see how she’s inspiring the next generation course of a year, he made possible through social media.

approximately 150 opportunities for airmen to earn WINGS credits. “I wanted to help Black students see that they could also work in As an ambassador and spokesper - aviation … Representation matters.” — read Johnny Rose’s story son for young people interested at bit.ly/YouCanAchieve .

in aviation, he created the Flight Learn how the arts can also be a gateway to aviation through STEAM Teen Volunteer Program at the (science, technology, engineering, Arts , and math). Check out Postflight Brandan Dadoun San Carlos Airport’s Hiller Aviation in this issue for more.

“Starry Flight” image courtesy of artist Melissa Bernard, 2021 graduate, University of Maryland Baltimore County, bachelor’s degree in visual arts and print media.

November/December 2021 27

JIM TISE ANGLE OF ATTACK

FAASTEAM VOLUNTEERS COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES

Bill Hopper organized the first heli - Office (FSDO) since copter safety seminar in St. Louis. 2013. Her efforts to Since then he has held scores of safety recruit new FAASTeam meetings on behalf of the FAA and Reps, schedule meetings, through organizations he formed and research topics for — the Greater St. Louis Helicopter webinars made her the Association and the Greater St. Louis agency’s National FAAS - Rotor and Wing Association. Team Representative of Karen Ann Kalishek has worked the Year in 2019.

with the FAA Safety Team (FAAS - Vic Moss uses drones Team) Program Manager (FPM) at the in his profession as an Milwaukee Flight Standards District aerial photographer.

He has advised local legislators about drone airspace and safety regulations. He is now a member of industry’s Drone Advisory Council that provides insight and advice to the FAA.

Karen Ann Kalishek These are just a few of the more than 2,500 people Hassig and his National FAASTeam who volunteered last year as FAAS - colleagues, Guy Minor (airworthi - Team Reps. They help the FAA spread ness program manager), and Kevin its safety message to pilots, mechanics, Clover (operations program man - and more recently, drone operators.

ager), believe FAASTeam Reps bring Representatives are especially import - significant benefits — both tangible ant because they encourage members and intangible — to the agency.

of their community to view aviation “Their impact is huge,” said Clover.

safety as a topic of continued educa - “Reps multiply our efforts so much,” tion, promoting ongoing participation he explained. “They’re everything to in safety courses to maintain and our program,” said Minor.

increase proficiency. The FAA would FAASTeam Reps also cover a wide welcome more like them.

variety of communities to include “Whether they’re a pilot, those involved in sport aircraft, mechanic, or drone operator, FAAS - gliders, and balloons. Their expertise Team Reps share several important on specific subjects complement FAA characteristics,” said Guido Hassig, inspectors’ all-around knowledge. In a the National FAASTeam program sense, they serve as the eyes and ears manager for unmanned aircraft of the agency.

systems (UAS) or drones. “They are For example, FAASTeam Rep Adam passionate about promoting aviation Magee has used his life-long love of safety and supporting the FAAS - ballooning to become a leading safety Team’s mission, and well renowned advocate, creating hot air balloon- for their talents as aviation safety specific content on FAASafety.gov.

experts,” he said.

His balloon safety presentations have Bill Hopper 28 FAA Safety Briefing ANGLE OF ATTACK reached close to 2,000 balloon pilots wanted to jump in on that and help volunteers offer is who they are not: during the past year. the industry,” he said. government employees. That’s an FAASTeam Reps also provide Reps also supplement the FAA’s important factor as the FAA seeks to increased access to members of the resources through the thousands of reassure the aviation community of its aviation community via networks, safety briefings they host each year. intent to work together as colleagues.

email lists, or other groups on which Volunteers have been influential in “They’re our link to the community,” promoting continual training and the FAA can rely. For instance, Moss, said Clover. “They can talk to some - an aerial photographer, administers skills enhancement for pilots through one that an FAA employee could not.

the WINGS Pilot Proficiency Pro - two social media groups with a com - It helps build a better safety culture.” bined membership of 18,000-20,000 gram, and for mechanics through the AMT Awards Program.

drone enthusiasts. As a FAASTeam THE FAA HAS BENEFITED “DronePro,” he conveys important “When it comes to attending semi - ENORMOUSLY FROM FAASTEAM nars, it is often difficult for mechanics information about the FAA’s drone safety standards, regulations, and to participate because, at the end of REPS WHO HELP PUSH THE the day, they are ready to go home policies through those groups while AGENCY’S SAFETY MESSAGE promoting FAA safety seminars. That’s and spend time with their families and hobbies,” explained Bill Hopper, vital to the FAA considering there are TO VARIOUS PARTS OF THE already more than 800,000 drones director of safety for Helicopters, Inc., AVIATION COMMUNITY.

and FAASTeam Rep for airworthiness registered in the United States, with more expected. As for what prompted out of the St. Louis FSDO. “Encour - aging mechanics to participate in Moss to initially volunteer with the FAASTeam Rep Karen Ann FAASTeam, it’s all about safety. “I proficiency courses can be a hard sell,” Kalishek agrees. “It brings the he added. But it’s FAA, which can seem like a large one that Hopper bureaucratic organization, down to has made for the a personal level, one pilot talking to last 28 years. His another,” she said.

motivation is As a flight instructor and desig - simple, “When nated pilot examiner out of Green you are in avia - Bay, Wisc., Kalishek says she has tion, you’re either “become, personally, very com - a contributor or a fortable working with FAA people.

user. I prefer to be They’re wonderful, safety-oriented a contributor,” individuals who are there to help and he said. promote safety.” At 66, Hopper The core is that I’m very passionate said he has no about aviation safety,” said Kalishek plans to retire. In about her role as a FAASTeam Rep.

his mind, there’s “I already know seven people who no hard part to have passed in aviation accidents.

being a rep. “I just The more I can do to prevent similar enjoy doing it. occurrences, the better.” It’s a time com - If you’re interested in becoming a mitment. If you FAASTeam Representative, contact a enjoy what you’re FAASTeam Program Manager (FPM) doing there’s noth - at your local Flight Standards District ing that’s hard. I Office. Go to FAASafety.gov , click the will continue to “Resources” tab, and then “Directory” promote aviation (second from top). Enter your state or safety as long as I region and view the list of program can do it.” managers at the top of the list.

Perhaps one of the biggest advan - Jim Tise is an editor in the FAA’s Corporate Communications division.

tages FAASTeam Vic Moss November/December 2021 29

GENE TRAINOR VERTICALLY SPEAKING

PILOTS PROPEL STUDENTS INTO AVIATION

The median annual wage for To help bridge the employment gap in commercial pilots in May 2020 was aviation, FAA employees are inspiring $93,300, which compares favorably students to pursue aviation and aero - space careers. to the median pay for all occu - pations at $41,954 a year, given a These employees are part of the FAA’s Science, Technology Engineer - 40-hour workweek.

Despite these competitive pay rates ing, and Math (STEM) Aviation and Space Education (AVSED) program and demand, the industry still strug - gles to fill positions due to the current established to expose students to aviation and aerospace careers and to lack of available pilots.

This potential shortage and the promote STEM education. Participat - other educators recommended a ing employees are part of a broader opportunity for well-paying jobs is group of 4th graders to participate in why U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice John - program designed to introduce the program since students often start students to aviation careers involv - son reached out to the FAA’s STEM thinking about future careers by the AVSED Adopt-a-School program to ing airports, air traffic controllers, time they enter middle school.

aviation maintenance technicians, promote aeronautical careers among In 2022, the Adopt-a-School students in her Dallas-area district.

unmanned aircraft systems (drones), pilot lesson will focus on introduc - pilots and space. The FAA Adopt-a-School program ing 4th-grade students to various encourages FAA personnel to get You may be surprised to learn that pilot careers and the solutions they many pilots work in the government involved to share personal knowl - provide. The lesson will review the edge and aviation experience with sector. The FAA’s Aircraft Certification different types of training and skill Service, for example, employs up to 30 educators and students. The program requirements for pilots, the types matches the aviation skills, expertise, flight test pilots, about half of whom of aircraft they fly, and the different fly helicopters, along with other knowledge, and resources of the FAA work they perform.

with the needs of the educational aircraft. Their job includes evaluating “We’re really excited about it,” said helicopter safety and determining if objectives of local schools. The FAA Janet Scott, FAA Adopt-a-School identifies Adopt-a-School locations in the aircraft, parts, electronic systems, Southwest Region Program Lead.

or other equipment or procedures each region. Two years ago, schools in The speakers will encourage stu - Maryland and Texas participated in a meet FAA standards. Base pay ranges dents interested in aviation careers to from $83,458 to $129,384, depending limited pilot of the program. This year, do their best in STEM-focused and at least one school per FAA region will on qualifications and experience, with aviation-focused curricula. “These locality increases from 15.95% participate. In the Southwest Region, subjects will help them with their for example, which includes Arkansas, to 41.44%.

paths to success,” Scott said.

Aviation job opportunities are on Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, FAA pilots who want to volun - and Rep. Johnson’s district in Texas, the rise. The expectation is that the teer and people who want to learn need for aviators will outpace needs the FAA will adopt the 580-student more about the Adopt-a-School Atoka Elementary School in Atoka, in other occupations. According to program can email program leaders the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, Okla., that serves a high percentage of at 9-APL-FAAEducation@faa.gov .

Native American students. The South - careers for helicopter pilots and other Or contact a STEM AVSED regional commercial pilots (excluding airline west Region may also add a Dallas program analyst at the nearest FAA Independent School District campus.

pilots), expect to grow “much faster regional center. See the website to than the average for all occupations.” The program selects schools based learn more: faa.gov/education .

on their diverse populations, proxim - The Bureau also reports that “the number of commercial pilot jobs is ity to FAA facilities, and the proximity Gene Trainor works as the communications specialist/ of potential industry partners. Dallas projected to increase in various indus - executive technical editor for the FAA’s Compliance and tries, especially in ambulance services.” School District representatives and Airworthiness Division.

30 FAA Safety Briefing

FLIGHT FORUM Hi Natalie — The FAA’s The Air Up There Podcast Thanks for sharing Presents: “Drone-ing” Your Own and we’re so glad Business to hear that you Ever wanted to start your own busi - found success ness? Why not do it with a drone!

in starting this On the latest episode of the FAA’s aviation pro - The Air Up There podcast, you’ll gram with this learn about drone entrepreneurship crucial younger and the versatility of drone piloting.

demographic. It’s Check out the full episode here: always nice to bit.ly/DroneCareers .

hear when our efforts to provide Get the LED Out informative and Great information on LED (light engaging pieces have been successful, emitting diode) lights (see the article Check out our GA Safety and we are certainly happy to support here: bit.ly/LEDtechnology ). As a Facebook page at Science, Technology, Engineering, and pilot, I installed LED lights in the Facebook.com/groups/ Math (STEM). Some of your students plane too — lots brighter and less GASafety might be especially interested in the wear and tear on the electrical sys - If you’re not a member, we encour - two GA Flying Companion issues we’ve tem. See and be seen — good safety age you to join the group of more produced (Jul/Aug 2014 and March/ improvements.

than 15,000 participants in the April 2018 at bit.ly/FAASB-Arc ), since — John GA community who share safety they offer a very basic introduction to Hi John — Thanks for your feedback principles and best practices, a broad range of topics involved in GA and for sharing your experience with the participate in positive and safe flying. Thanks again!

LED lights on your aircraft. You’re 100% engagement with the FAA Safety correct — they’re brighter, lighter, use How Do I … ?

Team (FAASTeam), and post rel - less power, and are great for increasing evant GA content that makes the Again, a stellar issue of FAA Safety visibility to other aircraft, both in the air Briefing focusing on UAS aircraft.

National Airspace System safer.

and on the ground.

Now that I’ve read your article “How Do I… ? FAA Resources for STEM to the Students For more stories and news, UAS” (bit.ly/FAAdroneResources), check out our new blog I am an FAA Safety Rep from I’m thinking of becoming a drone “Cleared for Takeoff” at Cleveland, Ohio. Six years ago, I instructor. Yes, I know it won’t be medium.com/FAA.

started the Aerospace Engineering the same as boring holes in the sky and Aviation program at in a Cessna, but during the pan - Let us hear from you! Send your com - Steubenville High School. We are an demic, which is still ravaging the ments, suggestions, and questions to Ohio career and technical program, Caribbean, I thought I could add SafetyBriefing@faa.gov . You can also and I am happy to say that we started on this skill set. Their multitude of reach us on Twitter @FAASafetyBrief or our pilot program in affiliation uses is mind blowing, and it will be on Facebook at facebook.com/FAA .

with the AOPA You Can Fly curric - an asset to capitalize on it. I look ulum, which has grown to include forward to next month’s article!

We may edit letters for style and/or the 4th-12th grade classes. We — Niven length. Due to our publishing schedule, have implemented the FAA Safety responses may not appear for several Hi Niven — Thanks so much for the Briefing magazines since the begin - issues. While we do not print anony - feedback. It’s always nice to know that ning; our students enjoy the articles.

mous letters, we will withhold names we’ve hit the mark in terms of material During the pandemic, they were or send personal replies upon request.

that our fellow aviators need and want crucial to educational quality due If you have a concern with an imme - to receive. It is most definitely a team to the switch to online learning, and diate FAA operational issue, contact effort! Congrats on sharpening your have been a huge benefit ensuring all your local Flight Standards Office or air drone skills and qualifications. One of areas of aviation are meeting FAA traffic facility.

the great things about aviation is that standards as our industry evolves.

there is always something new to learn.

— Natalie November/December 2021 31

SUSAN K. PARSON POSTFLIGHT

STEAM RISES

Yeats’ observation. Just as water and “Education is not the filling of a pail, was certainly true for me. Books, fire are both integral to this version of but the lighting of a fire.” stories, artwork, and movies about the phoenix, education involves both — William Butler Yeats airplanes and their crews ignited filling the pail and lighting the fire. I and fed my passion for aviation. The Most people are can’t resist observing that the “both/ various forms of aviation art also familiar with the and” nature of the riff has linguistic encouraged me to take a greater fiery incarnation support: “burn” can refer to both interest in, and liking for, science and of the phoenix, a water — a stream — and fire. math classes. Since portals and win - mythological bird that dows work in both directions, I’d like “The whole purpose of education is to obtains new life by rising to encourage those whose aviation turn mirrors into windows.” from the ashes of its predecessor.

interest is rooted in STEM to branch — Sydney J. Harris I’ve always loved the symbolism, so out into STEAM — let your interest various versions of the fierce and fiery When it comes to igniting the in aviation spark curiosity about how phoenix hang on my walls. But I also passion for aviation, whether as a both the beauty and the science of have a medallion of the water-and- subject, a hobby, a career, or all three, aviation can be expressed through the fire phoenix, which is a combination education in science, technology, arts. If you need a place to start, I’ve of the more familiar fire creature and engineering, and math (STEM) is included a few personal favorites in an alternate water version that cycles clearly important. But as an enthu - the sidebar. I’d love to hear from you from ice to a pool of frozen water, siastic liberal arts major and an avid on worthy additions to the list. Enjoy!

then to liquid, and finally back to the all-over-the-map bibliophile, I want solidity of ice.

to conclude this issue of FAA Safety Susan K. Parson (susan.parson@faa.gov) is editor of F AA If you’d care to follow me on this Briefing with a plug for how the arts Safety Briefing and a Special Assistant in the FAA’s Flight flight of fancy, perhaps we let this can also be a portal to aviation. That Standards Service. She is a general aviation pilot and creature illustrate a whimsical riff on flight instructor.

• North to the Orient (Anne Morrow Lindbergh) • The Finer Points ( thefinerpoints.com ) The universe of aviation-themed books, films, podcasts, and other artistic expression is vast • Skyfaring: A Journey with a Pilot (Mark Vanhoenacker) • The Green Dot ( eaa.org ) and constantly expanding. We offer here just a • Stranger to the Ground (Richard Bach) • Never Again ( aopa.org/podcasts ) few selections we have enjoyed, in hopes that • Talkin’ about Bessie: The Story of Aviator Elizabeth • Opposing Bases Air Traffic Talk ( opposingbases.com ) you will find them equally enchanting.

Coleman” (Nikki Grimes, illustrated by E.B.Lewis) FILMS: • Travels with Puff (Richard Bach) AVIATION BOOKS: • Flight of the Phoenix • Unlocking the Sky: Glenn Hammond Curtiss & the • A Gift of Wings (Richard Bach) • Fly Away Home Race to Invent the Airplane (Seth Shulman) • Biplane (Richard Bach) • Flying the Feathered Edge: Bob Hoover Project • West with the Night (Beryl Markham) • Fate is the Hunter (Ernest K Gann) • The High and the Mighty • Wind, Sand, and Stars (Antoine de Saint-Exupery) • The Flight (Dan Hampton) • Living in the Age of Airplanes • The Wright Brothers (David McCullough) • Flight to Arras (Antoine de Saint-Exupery) • Memphis Belle PODCASTS: • Fly Girls (Keith O’Brien) • One Six Right • The Air Up There ( www.faa.gov/podcasts ) • The High and the Mighty (Ernest K Gann) • Red Tails • Airplane Geeks ( airplanegeeks.com ) • Jackie Cochran: An Autobiography (Jackie Cochran) • The Right Stuff • Aviation Careers ( aviationcareerspodcast.com ) • Listen! The Wind (Anne Morrow Lindbergh) • Top Gun • Ask the A&Ps ( aopa.org/podcasts ) • Night Flight (Antoine de Saint-Exupery) 32 FAA Safety Briefing

PAUL CIANCIOLO FAA FACES

JIM BROUGH

National Aviation and Space Education Program Analyst, FAA Aviation Workforce and Education Division evolved into teaching ratios and scale. national AVSED program analyst He expanded his teaching to include under the FAA’s Aviation Workforce flight patterns, communications, and and Education Division.

other related topics. He also worked “With the support of numerous with the Experimental Aircraft Asso - partners in the public and private sec - ciation’s (EAA) Young Eagles program tors, we reach out to students around to give flights to his students. the world so they can learn more Recognition for his efforts resulted about aviation, as well as the criti - in a year-long paid sabbatical to cal role that STEM plays in a young develop low-cost aviation pro - aviator’s future,” Jim explains. “You grams for schools throughout New don’t have to get every kid to pursue Hampshire. During that year, Jim aviation, but the one you miss might connected with the FAA’s Science, have made all the difference.” A love for aviation has always been Technology, Engineering, and Math At the core of the program are in Jim Brough’s blood. He can’t help (STEM) Aviation and Space Educa - strong relationships with the commu - looking up every time an airplane flies tion (AVSED) program, which has nity and aviation organizations. This overhead. He always knew that he been an integral part of FAA outreach vast network facilitates information wanted to fly someday. As a teenager, and the national education system for sharing, increases resources, and pro - Jim joined Civil Air Patrol as a cadet decades. The program was established vides support to the public.

to get on a flightpath to success.

to introduce K-12 students to aviation The FAA has redesigned the STEM “Civil Air Patrol was a life-changing AVSED program to address current experience,” he notes. “Being part of issues that the aviation community is CAP allowed me to be around air - facing. This redesign is a high priority planes and around people who shared for the FAA with a focus on building my same passion for aviation.” the aviation and aerospace workforce Jim’s parents advised him to pursue of the future.

a college education and in 1986 he “Many people think aviation is too received a bachelor’s degree in ele - expensive, so they don’t entertain the mentary education from Keene State possibility. We want to show the pub - College in New Hampshire. Then in lic how they can pursue their dreams, 1997, he earned a master of education and inform them about grants, schol - degree in heritage studies from Plym - arships, and other opportunities that outh State College.

exist to support them,” Jim says.

While working as a teacher in the Jim encourages general aviation 1990s, Jim’s vector finally crossed pilots, our ambassadors to the aviation with his passion for aviation when he world, to serve as mentors and sources earned a private pilot certificate.

of information to our youth and to oth - “My principal asked me if I would ers interested in the aviation industry.

teach an aviation class to students,” and aerospace careers and to promote “Don’t expect schools and community Jim said. “That’s where my career in organizations to come to you. Go out STEM education. Jim assisted the aviation education took off!” FAA with educator workshops and and be a role model and share your Jim began teaching a simple course passion for aviation. It sounds simple, running aviation career education using the very first flight simulator (ACE) academies. but it can make a huge impact.” available on a computer. It allowed Jim became an aviation educa - him to teach basic math skills like tion professional when he was hired Paul Cianciolo is an associate editor and the social media rate times time equals distance , which lead for FAA Safety Briefing . He is a U.S. Air Force veteran, to work directly for the FAA as the and an auxiliary airman with Civil Air Patrol.

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