Ep. 283 Grit: The Secret Fuel for Aviation Success

Every pilot dreams of that moment when the wheels lift off, the earth falls away, and the sky becomes home. But when it comes to landing your dream aviation job, skill in the cockpit isn’t enough — it takes strategy on the ground. In this episode, Nik breaks down the art of the pilot resume. After reviewing more than a thousand real pilot resumes, he shares the top mistakes he sees and the top 10 tips to help you stand out. From formatting to flight hours, leadership to community service, Nik walks you through what works, what doesn’t, and how to make your one-page resume a ticket to the right seat. Whether you’re just out of flight school, moving up from regional, or coming off a military career, this episode gives you the tools to build a professional, polished resume that recruiters will notice. What You’ll Learn: Why a clean, one-page resume is a must for pilots How to format certifications, flight time, and professional experience The power of action verbs to highlight leadership and safety Common mistakes to avoid — from flashy designs to AI-generated resumes How achievements and community service can set you apart Top 10 Resume Tips Nik Covers: Keep it one page Personal info — full name, clean email, no call signs Skip the objective statement Certifications & ratings Flight time — bold the essentials (Total, PIC, Turbine) Professional experience — consistent formatting, clear dates Emphasize leadership, safety, CRM Use action verbs (developed, led, implemented) Trim down long military careers without losing impact Show community involvement & achievements CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #inspiration #inspirational #flying #flyingtips #motivation #motivational #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

In this episode, Nik sits down with Michael Nixon, a flight attendant who is now preparing to begin his flight training to become a pilot. Michael’s path hasn’t been traditional—private security, marina work, a serious injury, and eventually the cabin—all of it shaped his drive to move toward the cockpit. Aviation is built on diverse backgrounds—military, civilian, international, first-generation pilots, flight attendants, engineers, and everything in between. Michael’s story shows how these different paths come together to create the industry as it is today: dynamic, resilient, and deeply human. From mentorship and outreach, to the challenges of commuting, to the teamwork between pilots and flight attendants, this conversation shines a light on what makes aviation both demanding and rewarding. Whether you’re just starting out or decades in, you’ll find something here to inspire and encourage you. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Michael’s unique path from private security and marina work to becoming a flight attendant and aspiring pilot How a fractured femur led to a turning point in his life and opened the door to aviation Why representation and diversity in the cockpit matter, and how OBAP helps create opportunity The role of mentorship—both receiving it and paying it forward to the next generation Insights on financing flight training and choosing the right program, including Michael’s plans with Sling Pilot Academy Nick’s insider advice on making the most of aviation conventions like OBAP: networking, volunteering, and building long-term professional relationships The truth about commuting: crash pads, lost days, and why living close to base can save your career and your sanity How pilots and flight attendants can better understand each other’s roles—and why teamwork between the cockpit and cabin makes every flight stronger Key Takeaway: Mentorship changes lives: seek it, embrace it, and pass it on!  CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

Welcome back, pilots! Today, Nik is flying solo and diving deep into one of the most powerful qualities a pilot — or any leader — can have: GRIT. This episode unpacks why grit matters more than raw talent, how perseverance beats perfection, and what it takes to keep pushing when the skies get turbulent. From chair-flying one more rep to sending that next application, grit is the force that keeps you moving forward when everything else says quit. Nik walks through: What grit really is — passion + perseverance toward long-term goals Why resilience matters — bouncing back after setbacks and failures The power of consistency — showing up every day, even when motivation fades Why adversity builds better pilots — strong captains are forged in storms, not calm skies Practical ways to build grit — study more, train harder, stay disciplined If you’re training, interviewing, or grinding through the long days in aviation, this episode is your reminder to stay the course. Easy flights don’t make you a great pilot. Grit does. CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #inspiration #inspirational #flying #flyingtips #motivation #motivational #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

What happens when the unthinkable happens—and you crash an aircraft? For most pilots, it’s the nightmare scenario we hope we’ll never face. But for CDR AJ Edwards, U.S. Navy, it became reality. In this special extended episode, AJ takes us through the full journey: from the day of his helicopter mishap, to the intense investigations that followed, and ultimately, to how he rebuilt both his career and his confidence. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: The Mishap – A 2015 training flight that ended in a helicopter rollover. The Process – How military safety and FNAEB investigations unfold. The Verdict – The Admiral’s decision: probation and loss of quals. The Comeback – Rebuilding trust, confidence, and a flying career. The Lesson – AJ’s advice for pilots facing mishap investigations. This conversation is raw, real, and packed with insight into one of the most stressful processes a pilot can go through. Whether you’re military or civilian, there’s wisdom here for anyone who straps into the cockpit. 👉 If you know a pilot going through the aftermath of a mishap, share this episode with them. It might just give them the roadmap they need. CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

In this solo episode, Nik shifts the focus from flying skills to life outside the cockpit. Too often, pilots struggle when asked to share something about themselves beyond aviation. Nik breaks down why that matters and how those personal stories can strengthen connections during meet-and-greets, interviews, and in the crew room. He walks through eight areas you can draw from—like community involvement, teamwork, hobbies, family, and continued learning—to help you show up as a well-rounded, authentic candidate. Whether you’re preparing for an interview or just looking to grow as a leader, this episode reminds you that being an excellent pilot is only part of the story. Who you are outside of flying is just as important. What You’ll Learn: Why recruiters and interviewers ask about life beyond aviation Eight non-aviation topics you can share with confidence How community involvement and volunteering show leadership Ways to highlight teamwork, hobbies, and unique interests How to talk about family, cultural awareness, and personal growth The importance of continued learning and curiosity How to practice and articulate your story so it feels authentic CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

In this episode, Nik sits down with Air Force pilot Jared Butler, who shares his remarkable journey from flying in the backcountry of Idaho to operating the AC-130 gunship with Air Force Special Operations Command. Jared recounts high-stakes moments, including helping locate injured firefighters using low-altitude search patterns and riding out a sudden snowstorm at a one-way mountain airstrip. He also offers an inside look at the AC-130’s unique mission and the high level of crew coordination and precision required to support special operations on the ground. As he prepares for retirement, Jared reflects on the challenges of leaving military life behind and shares his hopes for a future in commercial aviation. What You'll Learn: The unique challenges of flying aircraft in the backcountry The structure and mission of the AC-130 gunship in special operations Behind-the-scenes insight into crew dynamics, radio comms, and target coordination on high-stakes missions Why Crew Resource Management (CRM) is essential in both military and civilian aviation Reflections on military retirement, finding post-service purpose, and balancing career with family Practical considerations for transitioning from military flying to Part 121, fractional, or ACMI carriers CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

In this solo episode Nik takes on an essential skill every pilot and leader must master: giving and receiving feedback. Drawing inspiration from a listener request, Nik explains how constructive feedback is the key to building trust, sharpening skills, and keeping crews safe. He compares feedback to ATC instructions—specific, timely, and critical to staying on course. Whether you’re an instructor guiding a student, a first officer addressing a captain, or a leader in any field, Nik shares practical tips on how to deliver and receive feedback with empathy and respect, while still being direct and effective.  What You’ll Learn: The difference between criticism that crushes and feedback that builds Why timing and delivery matter when offering corrections How to balance honesty with empathy The importance of receiving feedback with humility and professionalism How consistent feedback strengthens safety, leadership, and teamwork CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!  SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

In this episode, Nik Fialka sits down with Joshua Lee, founder of RTAG (Rotary to Airline Group), about how the organization has grown to the point where it hosts the largest aviation convention in the U.S. RTAG’s mission is simple: help veterans transition into aviation careers—not just as pilots, but across the entire industry. From scholarships to mentorship, RTAG connects veterans with opportunities in flying, maintenance, engineering, and beyond. Josh also shares his own journey, from flying in the military to recently joining the flight deck at United Airlines. He explains what went into the move, how his network helped, and why no pilot succeeds alone. You’ll also get a preview of this year’s Denver convention and the opportunities it holds for veterans and civilians alike.  What You’ll Learn: How RTAG started and why it’s become such a major event  The wide range of aviation careers open to veterans How RTAG scholarships and mentorship bridge the military-to-civilian transition Joshua Lee’s personal path to flying at United Airlines What to expect at the Denver RTAG convention this year What You'll Learn: Why LPA expanded to represent all aerospace career fields beyond pilots The difference between mentorship and sponsorship—and why both matter How to push past imposter syndrome and avoid self-selecting out of opportunities What makes the LPA Aerospace Industry Expo different from other career fairs How cultural celebration and community create a stronger sense of representation in aviation Why authenticity and preparation is more powerful than cookie cutter answers in interviews and meet-and-greets How upcoming airline hiring waves make this year’s Expo a critical opportunity for aspiring pilots CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

In this solo episode, Nik records live from OBAP 2025 and opens up about one of the biggest mistakes of his aviation career: letting entitlement and frustration hold him back. After transitioning from Navy helicopters to the airlines, Nik admits he carried the wrong attitude—expecting opportunities to come quickly instead of putting in the work. That mindset not only stalled his career growth but also bled into his home life and relationships. It wasn’t until a blunt conversation with a senior airline leader that he realized the truth: nothing in aviation is owed to you. Every step must be earned. In this episode, Nik reflects on how that wake-up call reshaped his perspective and why humility, effort, and character matter more than hours or résumés. Whether you’re new to the industry or chasing your dream job at a major, this story is a reminder to check your attitude, keep grinding, and focus on becoming the pilot and professional others want to hire—and fly with. What You'll Learn: The biggest mistake Nik made early in his airline career—and the lesson it taught him Why entitlement can stall your progress, even if you have the hours and experience How shifting your perspective can open doors and make you a better teammate The importance of humility, effort, and character in building your career Why no matter your background—military, regional, 135, or overseas—nothing is guaranteed in aviation CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

Episode 276: In this interview episode, Nik speaks with Army aviator Vinh Do about his path from military flying to pursuing a civilian aviation career. Vinh shares how he used his GI Bill, earned a fully funded ATP-CTP scholarship, and built flight hours while serving on active duty and in the Army National Guard. He also talks about moving to Alaska, how he found flying jobs by showing up in person, and what it’s like to fly in one of the most challenging and rewarding places in the U.S. Vinh's story is a practical example of how hard work, networking, and persistence can open doors in aviation—no matter where you start. What You'll Learn: How Vinh transitioned from Army aviation to civilian flight training How Vinh earned an ATP-CTP scholarship from RTAG Why in-person networking is essential—especially in Alaska's tight-knit aviation community How to stay motivated during slow hiring cycles Why “casting a wide net” and taking chances pays off in this industry CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at [email protected], and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot