7 Career Growth Tips From a Seasoned BizAv Pilot

It is true that not everyone is cut out for a life-long career in private aviation. A successful employee in private aviation needs to have some personality traits that are significantly different from what’s required to succeed with the airlines.

For example, where an airline pilot turns left at the main entryway into the cockpit to focus on piloting the flight, the corporate pilot must divide their attention between the back of the aircraft (ensuring maintenance, logistics and passenger comforts are all addressed) and the cockpit.

Flying tends to be the easier part of the job. To be successful, the corporate pilot needs to have an aptitude for providing customer service, accept changes gracefully, and be skilled in balancing family life with an often unpredictable work schedule.

Realizing and maximizing your career potential in private aviation requires a strategic and proactive mindset. A combination of technical expertise and soft skills will be needed, and to succeed you will need to grow in both areas.

The corporate aviation landscape encompasses a broad range of aviation activities including piloting, managing, maintaining, dispatching, flight attending and several more ancillary support positions. Each role contributes uniquely to the success of a flight department.

Those wanting to develop in their private aviation career should look to continually tailor their strategies and broaden their practical experiences. Following are some core areas to focus on.

BizAv Career Tip 1: Develop Technical Proficiency & Stay Updated

Technical proficiency is the cornerstone of career growth. Pilots, maintenance technicians, and other technical roles require a deep understanding of aircraft systems, regulations, and safety protocols. Continuous education and training are crucial to staying abreast of the latest technological advancements and regulatory changes.

For pilots, pursuing advanced certifications and ratings opens the door to new opportunities. Whether it's obtaining a type rating for a specific aircraft or adding additional skills such as a management course, accounting or mechanics, investing in continuous learning enhances skills and increases your marketability.

Similarly, maintenance technicians can benefit from specialized training, become subject matter experts, and participate in advisory committees. The same applies to all professions within corporate aviation.

BizAv Career Tip 2: Networking & Building Professional Relationships

Networking plays a pivotal role in career growth. Nurturing professional relationships can lead to mentorship opportunities, job referrals, and valuable insights.

We all have ‘friends’ who only call when they need something. That’s not good networking. Attending industry conferences, seminars or trade shows provide networking opportunities to meet professionals in your field.

Leveraging online platforms such as LinkedIn help you expand your network, while joining industry groups, participating in discussions, writing and showcasing your expertise can enhance your visibility, positioning you as a knowledgeable professional in corporate aviation.

BizAv Career Tip 3: Set Clear Career Goals & Create a Development Plan

To realize your career growth potential, it is essential to set achievable goals. Define where you see yourself in the short-term and establish your long-term objectives. These goals may range from obtaining a specific certification, transitioning into a leadership role within the organization, or perhaps moving on to a new job.

When I hatched my career master plan, I committed it to paper to help make it tangible. Then, as time passed, I updated my goals. Looking back, a written plan worked well to keep me on track.

It’s important to identify the skills, knowledge, and experiences required to achieve your objectives. Seek feedback from mentors and industry experts to ensure that your plan is realistic and is aligned with the current trends in corporate aviation. And don’t be afraid of ambition!

BizAv Career Tip 4: Be Proactive About Professional Development

Take a proactive approach in seeking out learning opportunities, whether through formal education, online courses, or on-the-job training. Offer to lead projects, and volunteer to shadow people who are masters at what they do (don’t be shy to ask questions)!

It’s also worth considering cross-functional training to broaden your skillset and increase your versatility within the organization. As an example, I benefited greatly from working with our Mechanics and Director of Maintenance, learning the basics of aircraft maintenance and recordkeeping.

Cross-functional experiences build new skills which I apply in my own professional growth.

BizAv Career Tip 5: Demonstrate Leadership Qualities

Leadership skills are highly valued in our profession. Focus on developing and showcasing your leadership qualities, such as effective communication, decision-making, and problem-solving. If you encounter a problem, bring it up with suggestions for resolution. A strong leader will welcome and appreciate your self-starter attitude.

Leadership is more than formal managerial roles. As a pilot or maintenance technician, displaying leadership will set you apart. For example, a pilot who effectively communicates and collaborates with the crew, demonstrates situational awareness, prioritizes safety, and contributes to the success of the company demonstrates excellent leadership.

Being outstanding at what you do is also leadership. After all, we are all in charge of delivering excellence and safety.

BizAv Career Tip 6: Seek Feedback & Embrace Continuous Improvement

Constructive feedback is a powerful tool for growth. Actively seek feedback from peers, superiors, and subordinates who you trust to speak candidly. Embrace a growth mindset that values continuous learning and improvement, and don’t be afraid of receiving constructive criticism.

Remember, feedback comes in various forms, including performance evaluations, peer reviews, and self-assessment. Use all information to refine your skills, address weaknesses, and capitalize on your strengths.

You must also learn how to read feedback. For example, I now know that if my Principal says nothing, it means he’s happy with my work.

BizAv Career Tip 7: Navigate Career Transitions Strategically

We know that career transitions are not uncommon. Whether you are considering a move to a different company, a shift in roles, or a transition to a leadership position, approach the change strategically.

Research potential opportunities carefully, weighing the pros and cons, and always make apples-to-apples comparison so you will know the impact of your decisions.

Previously, one of my pilots approached me saying that he had an opportunity to make considerably more money elsewhere. Once we looked at the offer side-by-side with what the pilot currently had, he realized the offer was not as good as it seemed. He’d failed to consider the difference between ‘total compensation’ versus ‘salary compensation’.

In Summary…

Realizing your career potential will require a combination of technical proficiency, strategic planning, networking, leadership development, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Whether you are a pilot, maintenance technician, flight attendant, or operations manager, embracing a proactive strategy will open doors to new opportunities and elevate your success in this dynamic industry.

Stay adaptable, remain informed of trends and be prepared to embrace and take ownership of change. Most importantly, understand that you must find happiness, satisfaction and fulfilment. Only with a balanced approach to professional and personal success will you find career growth, and happiness in your private life.

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