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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
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THE PROFESSIONAL FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR IN THE 21ST CENTURY&THE MASTER INSTRUCTOR DESIGNATION
PROFOUND EFFECTS OF SEPTEMBER 11th • September 10th - critical shortage of CFIs • September 12th – over abundance of CFIs • New procedures for flight training • Increased need for CFI involvement in current aviation issues • Increased need / cost for insurance • But…….
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 21st 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 e-mail • 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) • www.THOMAS.loc.gov
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 MASTERINSTRUCTOR 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!
What the program is NOT… • …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… • …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)