THE PROFESSIONAL FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR IN THE 21 ST CENTURY & THE MASTER INSTRUCTOR DESIGNATION
PROFOUND EFFECTS OF SEPTEMBER 11 th September 10 th - critical shortage of CFIs September 12 th – over abundance of CFIs New procedures for flight training Increased need for CFI involvement in current aviation issues Increased need / cost for insurance But…….
SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE…..
What is a Professional CFI? Displays empathy, caring and skills as a teacher Exhibits extensive aviation knowledge, flight skills & a broad base of experience Possesses excellent communication skills Adheres to safe practices and all federal & state aviation regulations
What is a Professional CFI? Projects a professional image in both demeanor and dress Charges a professional fee for professional services Is punctual, on task, keeps appointments Subscribes to the code of ethics of his/her professional association
What is a professional CFI? Offers professional services freely by doing pro bono activities for the good of the aviation community Authors and shares ideas, methods and research through various forms of media Is always learning and increasing her / his knowledge base
The 21 st Century Professional has even more responsibilities...
1. Be computer literate …because your students, colleagues and employers are! Knowledgeable of internet services Able to research internet information Able to communicate via Able to refer students to current aviation oriented software
2. Be informed of current issues Read professional publications Read electronic newsletters and visit websites Subscribe to FAA mailing lists (i.e. ACs etc) Attend safety and informational meetings
GOVERNMENT WEBSITES www. congress.org (type in zip code)
3. Be involved with aviation advocacy groups FAA Safety Program and WINGS National Association of Flight Instructors AOPA Airport Support Network EAA Flight Advisors, Technical Counselors
4. Be proactive, respond either individually or collectively Recent FAA Security Recommendations (NAFI MI response) Sport Pilot/Light Aircraft NPRM (NAFI MI response) NAFI input to National Safety Program State flight training proposals (FL, CT, MD, MI, NJ) “Write your congressman”
5. Learn the new technology Become proficient in the latest aviation technologies Students and pilots coming for instruction and flight reviews need proficiency for safety Many have the equipment in the aircraft but don’t know how to use it
NAFI’s MASTER INSTRUCTOR DESIGNATION Defines and sets professional standards Encourages continuing maintenance of these standards Recognizes those individuals who are truly the professionals in the field
Master Instructor Goals Increase credibility, stature & recognition Reward professional growth & development Encourage active professional involvement Promote innovative materials & methods Foster interaction & sharing of ideas Promote financial rewards!
…a contest like PCH Sweepstakes …a remake of the Gold Seal certificate …an award (i.e., Flight Instructor Hall of Fame) …a competition (i.e., CFI the Year) What the program is NOT…
What the program IS… …a mechanism to reward excellence in aviation education; …an industry-wide recognition by your professional association; …a way to identify those “Teachers of Flight” who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence, professional growth and service to the aviation community; …a mechanism to renew your certificate.
Master Designations Master CFI (MCFI) Master CFI – Aerobatic (MCFI-A) Master Ground Instructor (MGI) Master Flight Instructor (MFI)