Shows
The Aerospace Executive PodcastCosmic Land Grab: Inside the New Space Arms Race w/ Tory BrunoThe new space race is beginning; It’s not just between nations, but between commercial giants, shadow governments, and emerging players staking claims to orbits that are becoming dangerously crowded. The world is entering an era where control of the orbits will define global power.
What’s fueling this revolution isn’t just rocket science. It’s economic scale, exotic propellants, and a surge in miniaturized, high-functioning satellites. But with this explosion comes risk: orbital debris fields, collisions that could cripple constellations, and the looming specter of space warfare.
Join Tory Bruno, CEO of United Launch Al...2025-07-1759 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Problem With Aviation Accident Investigations (And How to Fix It) w/ Eckhard JannA fully loaded airliner lined up to land on a taxiway where four fuel-packed jets were waiting to depart. A catastrophic crash was avoided—by just 59 feet.
What caused the near-miss? Not a single pilot’s error, but a systemic breakdown: fatigue, communication failures, flawed assumptions, and organizational complacency.
In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, I’m joined by Eckhard Jann—former airline captain, aviation safety investigator, and best-selling author of Error One. With over 30 years of experience across airlines, healthcare systems, and global safety organizations, Eckhard shares how accidents are almost always set in m...2025-07-0344 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastExtreme Ownership: The Real Key to Executive Success (Replay)“You go do your thing—I’ve got this.”
The words every CEO wants to hear. It means the job will get done – no excuses!.
That’s real ownership—not just doing tasks but taking full responsibility for results, owning the outcome.
But can you teach that mindset?
In this episode, we get straight into extreme ownership—what it means, how it shows up in high-performing executives, and why it separates the top 5% from the rest. In today’s talent market, where every hire needs to be strategic, accountable, and fast-moving, ownership is non-ne...2025-05-2219 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWin and Learn: Why You Don’t Have to Wait to Fail to Get Better w/ Rob HoughtonAfter the Eagles’ Super Bowl LVII loss in 2023, Jalen Hurts said, “You either win or you learn.”
It was a powerful reflection on turning setbacks into lessons. Fast forward to 2025, Hurts led the Eagles to a dominant Super Bowl win, exemplifying how learning from past defeats can pave the way to future success.
But here's the question: Do we need to wait for failure to start learning?
Success can be a comfortable place, but it's also where complacency can creep in. The key is to stay proactive in our growth, even when things are go...2025-04-1725 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWhat Do You Do When Your Top Performer Is Dragging the Team DownEvery business leader dreams of building a team of A-players—but what happens when your top performer can’t seem to collaborate with the rest of the team?
When one standout employee clashes with others, it doesn’t just create tension—it can disrupt workflow, derail morale, and impact your entire company culture. And while high performers often drive results, the real question becomes: at what cost?
So how do we handle this dilemma? Should we keep the rainmaker and risk losing loyal, dependable team members? Or is there a way to address the conflict without...2025-04-1013 minThe Aerospace Executive Podcast"Complacency Creeps In When We Make Hard Things Look Easy”: The State of Flight Safety w/Bob WaltzOnce again, the aviation industry is in the spotlight, but this time for all the wrong reasons. With the recent accidents and mishaps, safety management systems have become a major topic in mainstream discussions.
The problem is, those conversations often turn into a rush to judgment, throwing around blame, prematurely pointing fingers, and ignoring the most important thing - the data.
This doesn’t help anyone at all.
What the industry does in the aftermath of an accident is critical. Instead of rushing to conclusions, we have to let the investigations play out and l...2025-03-2738 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBusiness Aviation’s Fight for Safety, Tech, and Its Reputation w/Andrew BroomBusiness aviation is a critical part of the U.S. economy, yet it’s often misunderstood as a luxury for the wealthy. While some may criticize the corporate executive boarding a Gulfstream, the reality is that this industry supports jobs, commerce, and economic growth nationwide. But are we, as an industry, doing enough to communicate its true value?
Challenges continue to emerge—from regulatory scrutiny and negative public perception to pressing issues like safety, technology modernization, tariffs, and the ongoing pilot shortage. Recent high-profile accidents have placed aviation safety under the microscope, making it more important than ever...2025-03-2034 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastTariffs in Aerospace: Will the Market Soar or Stall? w/ Bill AldermanIn aerospace and defense, predictability, stability and certainty are the fuel all deals run on. Buyers purchase companies expecting a sure thing that will sustain for decades.
What happens when you throw the possibility of unpredictable tariffs into this market?
You get buyer and seller uncertainty which slows the market down. No one knows exactly how President Trump’s tariffs will impact the supply chain and the deals that will get done.
That doesn’t mean it’s gloom and doom, though. The market is still good, there’s still plenty of deals to be done...2025-02-1343 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastSpy Tactics for Business Success: Leadership & Negotiation Lessons from a Former CIA Officer w/Michelle Rigby Assad [Replay]The aerospace industry thrives on precision, strategy, and resilience—the same qualities that define elite intelligence operations. But how do the skills developed in espionage translate to executive leadership, negotiation, and business strategy?
In this re-run episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, we revisit a compelling conversation with Michele Rigby Assad, a former CIA officer and counterterrorism expert. With years of experience in covert operations, Michele shares how the principles that kept her alive in high-stakes environments can also drive success in corporate leadership, deal-making, and career growth.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
The ps...2025-02-0641 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Business Jet Market: Challenges, Opportunities & The Leap into Entrepreneurship w/Mike Mikolay2024 was a solid year for business aviation, and 2025 looks even better. But let’s be real—owning, operating, and maintaining private jets is more complex (and costly) than ever.
We all know about the ongoing pilot shortages and talent retention struggles, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Aircraft acquisition hurdles
Rising maintenance costs & longer lead times
Increasing regulatory & environmental pressures
In today’s market, being a jet broker isn’t enough—you need to be a true advisor who understands the entire ownership lifecycle. That’s exactly what Michael Mikolay set out to do when he...2025-01-3048 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastGreat Bosses Can Impact You For Life, Here’s Why w/ Mark C. FavaIf there’s one thing that can propel or stall a career, it’s the boss you work for. A great leader can impact you for a lifetime. They create a winning environment, and allow their people to soak in the skills they need to succeed and become great leaders too.
Thinking ahead, taking charge and fixing problems, executing flawlessly and redeeming yourself after an error. These are just a few powerful competencies the right boss can give you - competencies that will make you an A player wherever you go.
Because here’s the thing: i...2025-01-1639 minThe Aerospace Executive Podcast"We're The Ritz-Carlton for Forgotten Inventory": Inside the Oyster Aero Success Story w/ Jeff JergeIn the aircraft parts market, some SKUs fly off the shelves easily, but that’s not the case for every part. Some parts sit in warehouses for years, gathering dust, adding up to hundreds of billions in write-offs.
80% of inventory gets snapped up, but the 20% can’t sell itself. It requires someone to do some in-depth spelunking to breathe new life into these forgotten parts and connect them with buyers.
The industry has long been aware of this problem - everyone complains about it but no one has ever done anything about it.
Until no...2025-01-0941 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastA Year of Innovation: Highlights from Aerospace Industry LeadersIn the aerospace industry, growth and innovation aren’t just buzzwords—they're vital for survival in one of the most competitive sectors in the world.
This year, I had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most forward-thinking leaders, companies that have not only weathered the turbulence of today’s challenges but have come out stronger on the other side.
From supply chain crises to strategic turnarounds, these conversations offer a deep dive into what it takes to succeed in aerospace today. In this special highlight episode, we’re revisiting some of the best insi...2024-12-2627 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHappy Mechanics, Better Results: The Jets MRO Story w/ Suresh NarayananThe business jet maintenance industry faces a persistent challenge: getting aircraft out on time and on budget seems nearly impossible. At the core of this issue? Labor shortages, high turnover, and a lack of skilled talent.
Hiring new mechanics is costly, the learning curve is steep, and customers ultimately bear the financial burden. While many have tried to solve these issues, Jets MRO took a bold, innovative approach that’s transforming the game.
What if the secret to better bizjet MRO performance lies in treating mechanics with respect and offering them a compelling reason to sta...2024-12-0524 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastUnlocking India’s Potential: How Jeh Aerospace is Solving Global Supply Chain Challenges in Aerospace and Defense w/ Vishal SanghaviAs the aerospace and defense industry continues to face supply resiliency issues coupled with talent shortages, India has emerged as a solution.
Many marquee OEMs have been able to harness the full capabilities that can be found in India and gain all the benefits of manufacturing there.
Jeh Aerospace is helping US companies unlock the talent pool, manufacturing and state of the art technology that has flourished in India, and they are just getting started.
A rising tide lifts all ships, so the goal isn’t just to solve the issues of one marke...2024-11-1435 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastRecognition Fuels Performance: How to Lead From the Heart w/ Mike ManazirMany people think military leadership is as simple as giving orders and people just blindly following them. They couldn’t be more mistaken.
While people will do what they’re told, this “sir, yes, sir” style of leadership doesn’t lead to high performance. It leads to a workforce that begrudgingly follows orders and passive aggressively does the bare minimum.
Getting people to take pride in their work and do it joyfully is a completely different ball game. It starts with a leadership style that’s more heart-centered, shifting from being transactional to being relational. A caring leade...2024-11-0734 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Evolving MRO Industry: West Star Aviation's Formula for Success w/ Stephen Maiden and Allen McReynoldsAirplanes aren’t retiring the way they used to. They are more sophisticated than ever before. They are staying around longer and they are getting larger with each generation.
This creates a challenge and a lot of complexity for MRO but also a massive opportunity.
How do you run an organization with the capacity, talent and sheer size to support all of this growth?
That’s something West Star Aviation has figured out at a really high level. As a 77-year old company, the business has a storied legacy. But what they’ve accomplis...2024-10-2450 minThe Aerospace Executive Podcast3 Strikes, Market Out? The State of Aerospace M&A w/ Bill AldermanWith the recent Boeing and Textron strikes, it seems the business of manufacturing new planes just can’t catch a break.
These labor woes are just another challenge clobbering the production and availability of new aircraft, and we have to brace for a challenging few weeks (or months).
Unfortunately, this could be the tip of the iceberg that can trickle down, but it’s not all bad news for the whole industry. There is a glimmer of hope - the aftermarket.
Since the pandemic, this side of the business has been white hot, and the...2024-10-1735 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow to Beat the Competition With Strong Aviation Branding w/ Melissa ThomasIn the world of business branding, there are 2 kinds of organizations. The ones that talk about what they do, and the ones that focus on what makes them unique.
You can guess which one grows faster and has more loyal customers.
Branding is non-negotiable - it’s the only way to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
In this industry, many companies don’t do enough to brand themselves differently, or the brands they do have are stuck in the past. As a result, there are hundreds of companies people can’t really tell apa...2024-09-1943 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastCulture of Safety: Why We've Enjoyed a Mishap-Free Decade w/Bob Waltz (Replay)Commercial Airlines in the United States have achieved an amazing accomplishment– 10 years without a major mishap. This is an enviable safety record that is a direct result of professionalism and industry improvements made through the years. Resting on our laurels, however, is not an option.
How do we maintain this stellar record despite massive industry changes?
In this episode, I’m joined by former VP of Flight Ops for Southwest Airlines, Bob Waltz shares what’s behind the improvement of safety and how to keep it that way going forward.
How we’re tr...2024-09-1239 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow to Gain the Love, Respect & Loyalty of The People You Lead w/Brett Crozier (Replay)Leading an aircraft carrier with a 5,000 person crew is like running an entire city. The flight deck is dangerous, the number of moving parts is countless, the stakes are high. and the magnitude of responsibility is unparalleled.
How do you deal with all this and still manage to be an approachable leader with the respect and loyalty of your crew? Why is delegation THE key to success?
In this episode, I’m joined by retired Navy captain of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Brett Crozier. He talks about his incredible career, his philosophy on leadership and what...2024-09-0543 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow Harley-Davidson Went From a Struggling Company to Iconic Brand w/ Ken SchmidtIf all you’re known for is what you do, you’ve basically rendered yourself uncompetitive. -Ken Schmidt
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
In a competitive marketplace, nothing kills you faster than trying to brand yourself on your product or service. That’s a lesson Harley-Davidson learned the hard way.
At one point, the company was being outpaced by Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW…until they decided to position themselves differently. They went fr...2024-08-2244 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastLife or Death Leadership: How to Build High Trust Workplaces w/ George DomTrust is really the water that all relationships swim in. When the trust is high, the water is clear and it’s a wonderful experience. When trust isn’t there, the water’s dark and there’s misery and drudgery. -George Dom
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
In the high-flying, high stakes world of The Blue Angels - trust is as vital as the air we breathe. In such an extreme workplace, trust can’t...2024-08-1536 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow to Build the Kind of Team that Takes Your Business to the Next Level w/Carl Gould REPLAYIn order to build a successful, scalable business that sets us free, we have to first build a really great team.
Our teams and the way they operate dictate the success of our organizations, and most of us know that. However, when it comes to building those teams, most of us just don’t know what we don’t know.
So, how can we build the kinds of teams that allow us to create the businesses of our dreams?
In this episode, author, speaker and serial entrepreneur, Carl Gould r...2024-07-2543 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastUp in the Air (Longer): Why the Aviation Aftermarket is White Hot Right Now w/Bill AldermanWhat happens when the aviation industry faces the gargantuan task of catching up to a constrained supply chain? The opportunity shifts. Everyone has accepted the reality that manufacturing is highly limited and that planes have to fly longer, so the aftermarket is white hot.
If you own IP and you’re driving the aftermarket, you’ll be fine for a while, but is this opportunity being felt across the industry or just limited to this corner?
The truth is there are different things occurring in different sectors. Many sectors are leaving la la...2024-05-2340 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHiring for Experience & Wisdom Confidently: How to Recruit & Manage the More Seasoned People in the Workforce (REPLAY)Today’s workforce is teeming with high-level talent possessing a wealth of wisdom and decades of experience. Do leaders have the confidence and maturity to hire them?
Young managers can learn a lot from the veteran players but only if they’re able to see past the age gap and manage the relationship maturely.
What are some of the insecurities leaders have around recruiting people with more experience, and how are they mitigated?
In this episode, Matt Johnson joins me to discuss why people with more experience and wisd...2024-04-2519 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Balance of Power is Shifting: Are You Doing Enough to Stand Out in the Eyes of the Top Talent in Our Industry? (REPLAY)The skilled American worker has the resourcefulness to create better opportunities for themselves, so they’re not going to tolerate being treated poorly, even if they’re employed by a mega industry player.
What will it take for business owners to stand out to recruits at a time when the balance of power is rapidly shifting in favor of employees? What can we do to not only attract, but retain their interest, so they’re less likely to look elsewhere?
In this episode, we’re discussing how to become (and stay!) the top choic...2024-03-1427 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastGet the Unsaid Said: The Secret to a High-Achieving Organization w/Steven GaffneyWhat separates the companies knocking it out of the ballpark and those running in place? Oftentimes it’s just simple communication.
Lack of achievement isn’t just a function of what people do, it’s what’s they don’t say…. But really need to!
The best leaders recognize the need for open communication and prioritize it, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Why is the distinction between a high-performance and high-achievement so important in our organizations? How do we become unconditionally powerful? How do we remove static from our communic...2024-03-0747 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastPost & Pray Isn’t Good Enough: How to Attract & Retain Top Talent (REPLAY)Most organizations don’t put enough time into the culture and mindset that makes them a great place to work and they miss out on talent because of it.
It’s one thing to post a job and wait for applicants to start rolling in. It’s another thing to proactively make your company a destination - a place people would beat down doors to join.
Maybe it’s HR laziness or an inability to determine your company’s true value proposition, but ultimately, if you’re not thinking about what your company b...2024-01-1824 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe One Question Companies and Recruiters Fail to Ask Candidates“I’ve got this job, want it or not?” is the absolute worst way to recruit an A+ player. Whether you’re a recruiter or a company looking for talent, the approach you take matters.
Ignoring their motivations or not caring about them at all means that you will risk losing those who can help you the most. Leave a negative impression at the start and you’ll guarantee the role will never get filled.
What are the other mistakes people make in the hiring process? How can conversations can be set up for s...2024-01-1114 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBecome the Focused Expert: 10 Steps to a Successful Career (REPLAY)Success is easy to find when it’s broken down into the basics.
What are the 10 key ingredients of a successful career? How do you avoid the common pitfalls?
In this special 200th episode of the podcast, we talk about the secrets to a million dollar career.
If you don’t understand what you need to do to be successful in a company or it’s ambiguous, stay away. -Craig Picken
Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- Mediocrity do...2023-10-2658 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastAnyone Can Have a Million Dollar Career...If They Have These Attributes w/Robert Houghton (REPLAY)Everyone has the potential to have a million dollar career - whether you’re starting your own business or climbing the corporate ladder, the recipe is really simple.
The things that separate thousands of college athletes from the 200 that are drafted into the league are the same things that separate mediocre players from the cream of the crop in the professional arena.
There will always be barriers to excellence and success, and most of them are internal. How do we identify and eliminate the things that stand between us and t...2023-09-2850 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBecome the Focused Expert: 10 Steps to a Successful CareerSuccess is easy to find when it’s broken down into the basics.
What are the 10 key ingredients of a successful career? How do you avoid the common pitfalls?
In this special 200th episode of the podcast, we talk about the secrets to a million dollar career.
If you don’t understand what you need to do to be successful in a company or it’s ambiguous, stay away. -Craig Picken
Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- Mediocrity d...2023-07-1358 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Careers: Finding Success in a Post-Career WorldThe traditional career is dead. Instead of climbing the resume ladder, many people are waking up to possibilities outside the cubicle or corner office.
We don’t live in an age where people stick with one career for decades. One person can have multiple iterations of their career, but it takes courage to make the leap.
How do you decide what your true calling is? How do you pivot before your job sucks the life out of you?
In this episode of Million Dollar Careers, we discuss an in...2023-06-2230 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Careers: Draft Day is a Microcosm of the Business WorldThe NFL draft is the greatest talent-hunting mission on display, and it’s a master class in excellence, business, recruiting, and people development.
Millions of kids play high school football. In college that number precipitously drops to 96,000 and at the professional level that drops further to 1,600. That exponential leap in caliber raises the game, and only the exceptional can make it.
What parallels can we draw in the business world? What makes the superstars so special? In this episode, we talk about why The Draft is such a great learning tool for...2023-06-0130 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastSVB’s Collapse and M&A: Why Aerospace and Defense Are In a Goldilocks PositionStories about the collapse of banks rightfully spook investors in a variety of industries, but things aren’t quite as dire as they are made out to be. Collapses make for great news stories, but if we really look at what’s happening in the aerospace and defense market, there’s no real cause for media panic.
Why is A&D in what my guest calls “A Goldilocks Place” right now? How do we separate media-fueled panic from what’s actually happening?
In this episode, aerospace and defense M&A banker and Founder an...2023-04-2029 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastPost & Pray Isn’t Good Enough: How to Attract & Retain Top TalentMost organizations don’t put enough time into the culture and mindset that makes them a great place to work and they miss out on talent because of it.
It’s one thing to post a job and wait for applicants to start rolling in. It’s another thing to proactively make your company a destination - a place people would beat down doors to join.
Maybe it’s HR laziness or an inability to determine your company’s true value proposition, but ultimately, if you’re not thinking about what your company b...2023-03-3024 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastEmployers, Stop Working Off Old Data and Know the Market We’re in NowWe’ve all heard about the massive lay-offs at Google and Facebook, but what you probably haven’t heard is how quickly those employees were able to find new jobs. It just goes to show that when it comes to high quality talent, the power isn’t on the employer’s side.
Many companies are still working off old data, putting them at a great disadvantage in terms of finding talent. When it comes to getting the best people, we can’t get away with paying them less in this market.
How do we ma...2023-03-2312 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Mediocre Live in the Moment, The Great Start With the End in MindIn my recent conversation with Mike ‘Nasty’ Manazir, he talked about starting with the end goal in mind and setting the intention to fly F-14s before it was even a possibility for him.
Every legendary pro-athlete knew what they wanted from a young age, and carved every aspect of their lives to get to that destination. In any field, the best of the best never lose sight of the ultimate goal, and they keep their eye on the prize at all times.
How can we apply this if we want to bui...2023-02-0917 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastSeven Nation Army & The Power of Simplicity Executed Really WellIf you ask most people what it takes to succeed, they’ll come up with an elaborate, overly complicated, multi-step formula, but that’s wholly unnecessary and even detrimental. All it really takes is executing a few simple concepts very well.
Think about Seven Nation Army - it’s basically 7 notes and a steady drum beat, but it works because it’s performed impeccably.
Our careers are exactly the same. A few essentials are enough to move the needle, and the more we perfect them, the better off we’ll be.
...2023-01-1224 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastDo Companies Effectively Communicate What’s in it for the Employee?Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter has ignited much debate, discussion and in some cases, ire over how he’s gone about things. There’s no denying that he is the biggest creator of shareholder value in the history of man, and that he has the ability to make any company he touches great, but so many employees aren’t buying into his mission.
Could this breakdown be nothing more than a communication issue? If the message had come out a bit differently, would the takeover have gone more smoothly?
In this episo...2022-12-2224 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastFixing That Which is Broken: The Mindset of Turnaround SpecialistsTurning around an ailing company is a challenge most people would run away from, but some executives are actually built for patching up the Titanic. The individuals who can thrive in this situation know how to embrace the chaos, roll up their sleeves and make the hard decisions that set the organization on the right course.
What traits does a turnaround CEO need to have?
In this episode, I’m joined by my producer, Matt Johnson to discuss the challenges and opportunities of being tasked with saving a sinking ship.
2022-12-1519 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWant to Be a Better Leader? Just Pick Up the PhoneFor how much time we spend on our phones, it’s astonishing how afraid people are of picking up the phone and just having a conversation. Progress is made and things come together in conversations that can’t be had via text and email.
Trying to force all communication through text and emails has led to passive aggressive texts, angry emails and other totally avoidable confrontations.
Why are we so afraid of getting on the phone? What are the only acceptable uses of email and text?
In this ep...2022-11-1015 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastReverting to the Mean: How to Win in an Irrational Labor MarketIn nature, the rule of balance reigns supreme - things will always return to an equilibrium, no matter what. In finance, reverting to the mean is a certainty, a swinging pendulum will always return to center.
The employment market is no different - right now everything is irrational, and it’s driving everything from jet pricing to salaries, but eventually the music will stop.
The challenge is keeping your business stable while things rebalance and still being able to play the game at a really high level on handicap mode.
2022-11-0336 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Careers: When Is the Right Time to Quit?Resilience and determination are highly sought after traits, and sometimes that’s what it takes to stay in a challenging job or career. But when the environment becomes too difficult or toxic, we just have to cut our losses and quit.
But how do we know if we've reached the end of the line with our jobs? What can we do to prepare before throwing in the towel?
In this episode of the Million Dollar Career Series, Robert Houghton and I discuss knowing when to fold 'em.
If yo...2022-10-2729 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBecoming THE Guy or Gal: The True Million Dollar Career AdvantageThe foundation of a million dollar career is your ability to be so valuable and knowledgeable that people need you more than you need them.
You don’t have to be the CEO to have this advantage - you just need to master your craft, show that you’re an asset and position yourself strategically to use your voice when it matters.
In this edition of the Million Dollar Careers, Rob Houghton and I discuss how to become THE guy or gal in the organization, and how it supercharges your career.
You wan...2022-09-2237 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Tugboat Theory: Are You in the Right Vehicle for Success?Big ships and tugboats are entirely different machines, and the captains who steer them serve very different roles.
This rule shows up in our careers - it’s hard for someone who thrives in a start-up to excel in a large corporation, and the people who are great in corporate would struggle in a more entrepreneurial environment.
There’s nothing wrong with either path, but the key is knowing yourself and placing yourself in the right environment.
What are the key differences between corporate-oriented people and those more suited to startups? In today’s editi...2022-08-1833 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Careers: The Best Resumes Tell StoriesMost resumes, even the ones with the most impressive accomplishments, are nothing more than a list of boring bullet points. If you’re trying to get a great job with a profile that’s devoid of personality and storytelling, it’s going to be really hard to stand out.
Everyone has an incredible story to tell about their lives and careers, the more we tell them, the more people want to bring us into their worlds.
In this episode of the Million Dollar Careers series, Robert Houghton and I talk about what the history of Americ...2022-07-2826 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Careers: The Measure of a Great OrganizationThe mark of a great organization is a leader who empowers their people to make decisions at a tactical level; and employees who can advocate for change within the system.
When business owners micromanage and smother their top talent, they make progress impossible. When employees complain about the shortcomings of the company without coming up with real solutions, they can’t thrive in their roles.
How do both sides of the business relationship set themselves up for success?
In this edition of the Million Dollar Career Series, Robert Houghton and I discuss the en...2022-06-2327 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Careers: Why Keeping it Simple is a Great StrategyIn today’s fast-paced world of algorithms and shiny objects, people overcomplicate career and business success, but just like in fitness, committing to a few simple actions is what drives results.
The simpler we make things, the better we get at our jobs, and the faster we get to our goals.
How do we simplify what we’re doing, and cut out the unnecessary complexity? In this episode, Robert Houghton and I share why simple things make a huge difference.
"The 3 things a salesperson needs to focus on who their customer is, h...2022-06-0223 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow Turmoil in the Economy is Affecting Aerospace M&A w/ Bill AldermanAs of May 2022, inflation remains the biggest concern for businesses. It’s not only raising production costs and eroding earnings, it’s also slowing down mergers and acquisitions, which should be very active right now.
Is it all gloom and doom or is this a speed bump before the big opportunity?
In this episode, President of Alderman & Company, Bill Alderman returns to share how inflation is affecting aviation businesses, and some of the solutions coming down the pipeline.
In this episode, President of Alderman & Company, Bill Alderman returns to share how inflation is affect...2022-05-2630 minThe Aerospace Executive Podcast150th Episode Special: Do This to Break Open New Opportunities in Life & BusinessOnce in a lifetime opportunities and massive breakthroughs don’t happen by accident - they are a direct byproduct of how we position ourselves. The next great career move could be one conversation or one even question away, but if we’re complacent or comfortable in what we know right now - it will always be out of reach.
What keeps people from professional and personal growth? In today’s special episode, we’re celebrating our 150th episode!
I’m joined by our show’s producer, founder of Pursuing Results and author of MicroFamous, Matt Johnson. I s...2022-05-1222 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastRecruiting 101: This is What Your Company Should be Doing to Become the Employer of Choice in Your IndustryWhen it comes to investing in recruiting A+ talent, most companies talk a big game, but just don’t do enough to really appeal to those heavy hitters in the job market. Where are they going wrong?
From unexciting job listings to an unwillingness to pay for the best, we’re seeing employers make various mistakes, and as a result, their recruiting efforts keep falling flat.
This is the craziest job market we’ve ever seen, and the best people won’t even consider you as an employer unless you’re doing something really different.
What...2022-05-0527 minThe Aerospace Executive Podcast3 Ways Guaranteed To Get You The Big Promotion w/Robert HoughtonEveryone wants to land that big promotion, but when it comes down to snagging the role, many of us find ourselves stuck.
So, how can we get unstuck?
What would it take for us to impress the leadership in our organizations so much so that we’re the natural choice, when it comes to promotions?
In this episode, Robert Houghton and I unpack the 3 ways to get unstuck, so you can finally land that million dollar career.
"Tearing ideas down for the sake of it is worthless. Always come arm...2022-04-2821 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastIf You Want A Million Dollar Career, Start With The End in Mind! w/Robert HoughtonEveryone wants to have a million dollar career, but when it comes down to thinking of how we’ll get there, things tend to get foggy.
The only way to reach our goals is by getting practical and tactical. We can’t expect to see big results if we’re not actively planning how to attain them.
How do we start planning accordingly? Is there a foolproof formula that takes our goals from dream to reality?
In this episode, Robert Houghton and I explain why the key lies in working backwards.
"Unless...2022-04-2115 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow to Build the Kind of Team that Takes Your Business to the Next Level w/Carl GouldIn order to build a successful, scalable business that sets us free, we have to first build a really great team.
Our teams and the way they operate dictate the success of our organizations, and most of us know that. However, when it comes to building those teams, most of us just don’t know what we don’t know.
So, how can we build the kinds of teams that allow us to create the businesses of our dreams?
In this episode, author, speaker and serial entrepreneur, Carl Gould reveals the 7 stages of grow...2022-04-1443 minThe Aerospace Executive Podcast3 Ways To Ace Your Next Performance Review w/Robert HoughtonNews Flash!! The Performance Review doesn’t need to be a nerve-wracking experience.
All it takes is a confidence.
In this episode, Robert Houghton and I share strategies on how to master the art of the performance review and get your career to the next level.
"The minute you go into a performance review, understand where you added value to the business." -Craig Picken
Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
The importance of knowing our numbers
If YOU don’t know your numbers how do you know how...2022-04-0713 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow to Help Your Organization Emerge Victorious from The Great Resignation w/Robert HoughtonIf there’s one thing that could characterize our present moment, it’s a general sense of unhappiness. People just aren’t content in their jobs anymore, and as a result, they’re quitting en masse. Thus, The Great Resignation.
What’s behind this general discontent and what can we do about it?
Is there a simple solution or do we need to dig deeper to reach the roots of the issue?
In this episode, MR Fairfax’s Robert Houghton and I are diving deep into The Great Resignation and what it means for your busine...2022-03-2427 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Career Series: Put Your Focus On Your Own Job and Stop Looking at Everyone Else w/Robert HoughtonThere’s a general trend taking place at the moment, across industries, where everyone seems to be more concerned with what everyone else is doing, but that’s not going to get us anywhere. Only focus can do that.
What’s stopping more people from staying dialed in to their own jobs, and what can we do as leaders to make that easier for them?
Is there a way to pinpoint recruits more likely to knuckle down on what they’ve been hired to do?
In this episode, Robe...2022-03-1725 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastPeople leave Jobs for All Sorts of Reasons. Stop Taking it Personally and PrepareWe’ve all heard the cliche saying, ‘people don’t leave jobs, they leave people’, but it’s time to debunk that idea, once and for all!
People leave jobs for all kinds of reasons, from higher pay, to better opportunities for growth and even convenience, so we’ve got to stop chalking it all up to leadership.
The question we should be asking is, what happens when people do leave?
In this episode, Matt Johnson and I discuss how to respond to a turnover within our organization. 2022-02-1719 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMillion Dollar Career Series: How to Find and Onboard the Superstars Guaranteed to Move Your Business Forward w/Robert HoughtonEverybody wants to onboard superstars, but just how many business owners are doing what it takes to recruit and retain them?
The truth is, not nearly enough of us are. We all speak about wanting our businesses to grow to new heights, but when it comes to taking on the kind of talent that will help us get there, we fail to jump at the opportunity.
Why is it that so few of us are willing to take a chance on superstars in the making? How can we get better at spo...2021-12-3038 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastFrom Innovation To Stagnation: Bill Alderman on the State of Our Industry Nearly 2 Years Since the Onset of COVID-19Our industry has dealt with unbelievable challenges over the last 20 months, but in spite of that, we seem to be holding up relatively well.
The real question is, as we near the 2-year mark of the global onset of COVID-19, what will the long-term effects of these challenges be? What does the future look like for the little players, and how can they position themselves for not only survival, but success?
In this episode, President of Alderman & Company, Bill Alderman returns to share his thoughts on the state of our industry tod...2021-11-1841 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastAnyone Can Have a Million Dollar Career...If They Have These Attributes w/Robert HoughtonEveryone has the potential to have a million dollar career - whether you’re starting your own business or climbing the corporate ladder, the recipe is really simple.
The things that separate thousands of college athletes from the 200 that are drafted into the league are the same things that separate mediocre players from the cream of the crop in the professional arena.
There will always be barriers to excellence and success, and most of them are internal. How do we identify and eliminate the things that stand between us and t...2021-10-0750 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Balance of Power is Shifting: Are You Doing Enough to Stand Out in the Eyes of the Top Talent in Our Industry?The skilled American worker has the resourcefulness to create better opportunities for themselves, so they’re not going to tolerate being treated poorly, even if they’re employed by a mega industry player.
What will it take for business owners to stand out to recruits at a time when the balance of power is rapidly shifting in favor of employees? What can we do to not only attract, but retain their interest, so they’re less likely to look elsewhere?
In this episode, we’re discussing how to become (and stay!) the top cho...2021-09-0227 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow to Stand Out from the Crowd in ANY MarketAs individuals and companies start thinking about how they'll move forward in the coming months, it's time to re-evaluate how we present ourselves.
How can we position ourselves for the roles of our dreams? What can we do to stand out before we even get an interview?
In this episode, I'm diving into what business leaders care about in ANY market.
"If you really want more money and a better title, quit asking for a job and tell recruiters where you add value to their organization." -Craig Picken...2021-07-0108 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBusiness Recruiting Lessons From NFL Draft DayThe whole world is going mental at the moment, and that's because we're taking on too much at once. From getting the corner office at work, to homeschooling our kids during Covid, to getting the perfect body in the gym, we're trying to do it all, and in the process, we're not giving enough of ourselves to any of the tasks we take on.
The only way to reach our goals, both professionally and personally, is by prioritizing. What needs to be done now, and what can be looked at later?
Where do we draw...2021-05-0614 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWhat Lies Ahead for Small Businesses? w/Alex KrutzThe aerospace industry was rocked in 2020 and nobody went unscathed. While many focused on Boeing, Airbus the bigger companies, very few talked about the little guys.
How has the lower middle market fared, and what does 2021 have in store for them? Who will bounce back and who is in danger?
In this episode, Managing Director of Patriot Industrial Partners, Alex Krutz shares his outlook for the small and middle-market players.
In this episode, Managing Director of Patriot Industrial Partners, Alex Krutz shares his outlook on the lower middle market.
"Watching a hu...2021-03-1932 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastYou Reduced Aircraft Weight How Much?!! w/Roger Raley and Joe D’CruzAlpine Advanced Materials innovative HX5 composites are driving weight-saving solutions that took a whopping 2,000 lbs. of weight out of a Boeing 777! As a venture-backed, early stage start-up, the company is also creating big waves in aerospace manufacturing.
Getting a startup off the ground is challenging in the best of times, and a pandemic only adds another hurdle to the mix. What have Roger Raley and Joe D’Cruz done to thrive amidst the chaos? Do startups have advantages over their established competition that allow them to dominate?
In this episode, Roger Raley a...2021-01-0740 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastRebuilding After the Storm with Andy MansellCOVID-19 dealt a devastating blow to the airline and aircraft leasing industries, but the cracks were already there pre-pandemic. The pandemic merely sped up the inevitable. How do we rebuild?
Do we play it safe until the storm passes over or do we try new things in a frozen aircraft market?
Industry expert and Partner at Split Rock Aviation, Andy Mansell shares how the industry should use this time to plan for the future.
If you’re patient during this period, the returns can be unbelievably good. -Craig Picken
2020-10-0139 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWhat Do THEY Want?: Ask the Right Questions to Get & Keep the Best TalentHiring the right people is never easy. If we’re seeing talent and potential in someone, odds are our competitors see that too.
It’s also important to remember that people exist in a fluid marketplace – our existing talent is constantly being enticed with other offers. Thus, it is OUR responsibility to ensure they’re happier with us.
What can we do to make sure top recruits are drawn to us, rather than our competition? How do we retain our existing employees?
In this episode, we discuss that hiring and retention are dependent on a clear...2020-09-2418 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBeyond the Short-Term Pain of a Crisis is the Opportunity with David YuWith domestic air travel reopening across the world the airlines are bouncing back. But there is more short term pain.
To move forward from this crisis let’s focus on the fact that there’s opportunity for long-term gain. Who do the airline turn to for survival? Governments? Capital Markets?
Industry expert, Senior ISTAT Aircraft Appraiser and successful investment professional, David Yu, shares his thoughts.
Domestic flights have bounced back somewhat, but when it comes to international travel, governments will be the wild card...2020-07-3035 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastForce Majeure! The Evolving Legal Landscape in Times of TurmoilIt may be an act of God, but is force majeure a realistic path to go down?
Mark Ditto, Vedder Price Shareholder and Attorney, explains how stakeholders are responding to this and other pertinent legal issues in our current commercial aviation reality.
At the end of the day, we’ve got to look to the future. If we use force majeure as a reason not to pay bills, it puts us in a precarious position going forward. -Craig Picken
3 Things We Learned from Mark
Force Majeure: It may seem...2020-06-1839 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastOpportunity's Knocking, How Will You Respond?COVID brought CHAOS! It will also bring out two groups of people – those who will use it as a chance to grow and those who will bury their heads in the sand.
I find it ironic that most of the opportunity comes during times of uncertainty…How many new businesses were started during the great recession? How many millions were minted during the Savings & Loan crisis? How many took advantage of a recent 30% stock market drop? It’s time to navigate the chaos and identify the opportunity. The winners are aggressively doing that now. The losers are those...2020-06-0406 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHow COVID-19 Is Impacting AerospaceThe COVID-19 epidemic is a bit like a hurricane. Let’s get through it together.
Panicking is more dangerous than hunkering down. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Hurricanes are scary, but they do pass and life will return to normal.
Focusing on one metric or putting your eggs in one basket is never a good thing.
Airlines are parking airplanes and doing limited maintenance of Safety of Flight only. But it will get better.
When the airlines do return, they will rebalance on the back of cheap oil and very e...2020-03-2308 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastEverything Has a Shelf Life - Make Yours UnlimitedThe abrupt dismissal of Boeing CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, proves that all jobs have a shelf life. How can we extend ours and is there any risk in having conversations with other industry players? On this episode, we share the power of networking and how to make our career opportunities unlimited.
Go to conferences, and pay your way if need be. See what’s out there and learn something. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Don’t get complacent. No matter how comfortable you are there is always a chance that could change. Every...2020-02-1330 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastEffectively Transitioning to a Leadership Role - Jason RoncoroniTransitioning to a leadership role can be overwhelming. Are you mentally prepared for the task?
President of Ordinary Hero Coaching Jason Roncoroni shares best practices to transition into bigger roles.
People who adapt will thrive, and those who don’t will be left behind. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Stop attaching identity (title) to positions. To thrive, we have to become our most authentic selves.
Effective leaders are those who emulate the type of leadership they have thrived under.
Stop playing it safe. People often avoid leadership positio...2020-01-1640 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHave the ConversationThe end of the 20th century brought the end of job security. It’s now evident… Your job or your best employee can quickly disappear in the keystrokes of a simple email. It’s for that reason why we should NEVER STOP HAVING CONVERSATIONS!
Companies should always be recruiting, because you never know when your talent will leave. The last thing you need is to say ‘what now?’ -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Never have a mindset that all the seats are full. No matter how good your current team, keep recruiting...2020-01-0212 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBecoming World Class?To BE world-class means understanding what world-class is. To get there requires a complete understanding of the world around you and seeing how others do it differently. Indeed, people and companies may think they’re good! But if they’re not looking beyond themselves, and understanding what the competition is doing, then they’ll never really know.
The only way to know you’re world class is by constantly looking at what your competitors are doing. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Look around! World-class means taking journeys beyond the comfort zone...2019-12-1917 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWhy I’m Bullish on Generation “Next”Drake Massa will be someone’s rising star. At 12 years old he set a goal to make $100,000, and he hit it. Today, he’s a college junior who works full time, is paying for his own college, is taking a FULL load of classes, and is excelling.
He’s why I’m bullish on the future!
Co-founder of Massa Landscape Design, a Project Manager with Elm Builders and a Finance and Marketing Strategy major at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington, Drake shares the steps for companies to attract top, future talent.
2019-11-2722 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastHigh Performers and Extreme OwnershipExtreme ownership creates effective leadership, even when it means fessing up to our shortcomings. Good leaders will accept responsibility for the performance of their teams – good or bad.
While leadership is ultimately responsible for results, they must encourage their teams to own that which is theirs.
Extreme ownership is realizing that if you’re the captain, you have to take responsibility and cannot blame others for a lack of results. - Craig Picken
To be great leaders and executives, we need to accept that we are responsible for everything that...2019-10-3119 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastCulture Will Make or Break Your CompanyIt’s vital we start thinking about the company culture – NEVER underestimate its importance. In this 15 minute episode we discuss why and how cultures will make or break companies in 2020.
Great company cultures are built by giving people roles they’re capable of handling. If they don’t succeed, it’s up to us as leaders to give them guidance. - Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Identify company culture by monitoring the way employees interact with each other. The way people behave around each other at work says a lot about the overall culture.
Ne...2019-10-2417 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastMessaging Tactics that WILL Win You Business – Tom SchwabEveryone has a great story to tell, so tell it!
70% of the buying decision has already been made online and transactional business can be done via online marketing. Strategic buying decisions, however, require sound, professional relationships
Tom Schwab discusses how businesses and people can rise from obscurity to share their message.
Marketing is starting the right conversation with someone that could be an ideal customer.
-Tom Schwab
Takeaways + Tactics
70% of the hiring decision is made by what employers see about someone online.
It’s easy to make a transac...2019-10-1734 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastChina, Engineers and Innovation! Oh, My!
Tyler Rogoway, Editor for “The War Zone” (www.thewarzone.com) is THE expert on the world’s militaries, capabilities and defense programs. In this episode he flawlessly highlights Chinese military expansion, why DOD programs are struggling and how Innovation will need to come to the rescue.
Takeaways + Tactics
China is moving far and fast with incredible technological advancements.
The US Military is stuck in its ways and a lack of Engineering talent may be its Achilles Heel.
To meet the world’s threats the Pe...2019-10-0344 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastValues, Culture and Teamwork! Building a Great Business with Mike Durant
He’s much more than just “the Black Hawk Down” guy… Mike Durant is also an accomplished entrepreneur, CEO, and business leader who gets results. Learn how he creates a company culture that makes for happier employees and better results.
Takeaways + Tactics
Having the right people on the team makes all the difference. Leaders must ensure they hire the right people for the job. If an employee is the wrong fit, remove them quickly.
Hands-on management is vital. Leaders should be in the trenches...2019-09-2634 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastEQ is Smarter than IQ
Most organizations screen leaders based on their Brainiac intelligence (IQ). What they ignore is the emotional ability to connect, the EQ, which is a vastly more important tool to drive teams forward. What can EQ achieve that IQ cannot?
EQ is all about interacting with people in a strategic way that get things done. Instead of focusing on how smart someone is, we should be more focused on what kind of leader they are, how they communicate and their ability to positively interact with those around them.
A b...2019-09-1914 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastA Different Kind of LeadershipThere are two types of business leaders: Top down leader who dictates tasks that needs to be done and the commander-style leader who sets the strategy and relies on his team to implement it. What style do “A” players work with best?
CEOs who micromanage cannot be effective. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Sometimes getting the best results means giving control to your teams
Hire the right people and let them excel; they will excel and do what’s right
People want to be trust...2019-09-1219 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastBecoming Indispensable - Steve Gordon
The first sale that needs to be made is “you.” A key to success is making sure YOU’RE the first and obvious choice for clients.
Founder of the Unstoppable CEO, bestselling author, and podcaster, Steve Gordon, shares how to build a media platform around our expertise.
Takeaways + Tactics
Stop looking for the ‘secret sauce’. There are really no novel ideas. Instead of looking for something completely new, focus on sharing the expert knowledge you’ve acquired over the years.
There is no need to attract...2019-08-2943 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastTornado Bosses & The Dangers of Disruptive LeadershipIf you think you’re a maverick leader it’s probably time to put on the brakes … your shelf-life may be short.
Every once in a while, companies go through a tornado of sorts, where chaos reigns supreme in the name of change. What are the dangers of disruptive leaders? When is it appropriate to hire or be one and what does it mean for the existing guard?
Takeaways + Tactics
As leaders, we can’t just steamroll everyone. Listen to those you lead, rather than forcing your will.
2019-08-1516 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastSecuring the Future of Aviation Maintenance with AAR Corp. CEO John HolmesThe macro-trends of society are making it increasingly difficult to build a skilled aviation workforce.
John Holmes, CEO of AAR Corp., discusses AAR’s leading role in skills development and how trends in aviation will create new opportunities for both airlines and MROs.
Takeaways + Tactics
By creating programs that serve as career pathways for young people, we can introduce them to the value, benefits and longevity of a career in aviation maintenance.
The two main challenges independent service providers have with hiring airplane mechanics are finding people in their markets...2019-08-0937 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastRecruiting “A Players”Everyone wants the “A’s.” Getting them is easier said than done. Worse, some companies discourage the best candidates via poor recruiting practices.
On this episode, we discuss the best way to approach the recruitment process.
You should always be recruiting internally first. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
ALWAYS develop your bench. Constant people development is THE key to long-term success
Your best recruiting pipeline comes from your teammates. Want a great Ops Manager? Ask one of your Ops Managers…
Status quo gets you not...2019-07-1123 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Team You Start With Isn’t the One You Finish WithStarting a business is difficult at best. And, one of the most difficult aspects of scaling up is shaping the team. With growth comes challenges and the need for new and different skillsets. On this episode, Matt Johnson and I discuss how the relationship with the team will change.
Networking is crucial. How do you know you’ve got a great team if you’ve never seen how other teams operate? -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
Understand that the people you start with are not always the same people who wil...2019-05-1715 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastA Lesson in Exercising Empathy w/Sean DouglasEmotional intelligence is crucial in all walks of life – including the military and industry. What does it mean to live out your core values? On this episode, I talk with Air Force maintenance leader and fellow podcaster, Sean Douglas, to hear why he believes empathy is a critical element in business and society.
The best way to manage poor performers is to educate them. Train them so they won’t repeat mistakes.
Put people in the places they belong and in areas where they will excel. Don’t set them up f...2019-05-0325 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Boeing Crisis & Jumping to Conclusions
The Boeing 737 Max crisis has caused considerable anxiety throughout the world. Should customers really be hesitant to board an airplane? Matt Johnson and I discuss why we should avoid jumping to conclusions in the wake of the crisis.
Resources
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: http://northstaresg.com/
To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Part...2019-04-2611 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastTeamwork, Training and Faith with John AlvarezJohn Alvarez is a member of the Air Commando Hall of Fame and the first aviator in US history to be restored to full combat flying status after losing his leg during combat. I first met him when we were young Ensigns in the Navy, he was in Primary Flight Training and I was on my way to starting flight school.
His story is fascinating and involves a host of different players to include Ross Perot, a USMC Drill Instructor, friends and a loving family. It also comes with several lessons:
With high performing teams you...2019-04-051h 00The Aerospace Executive PodcastWhere Did All Our Pilots Go?Our industry is at a crossroads. The older generation of pilots is about to retire, and the younger generation is either restricted from the cockpit or they don’t view piloting as a career path.
So… we now have a pending shortage of people and the ramifications will be huge!
Unfortunately, time, the unions and the government are not on our side…
In this episode, I talk with Matt Johnson about how the pilot shortage became what it is today, and how this issue could be resolved.
As a...2019-02-2512 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastWhy Business Aviation Is Shooting Itself In the FootThe benefits of business aviation are immeasurable. But the perception of the corporate jet?... not so much. The perception that it’s an industry that only benefits the top 1% exists because it’s an industry that keeps shooting itself in the foot.
Just as Americans supported anti-business policies in the 1930s, after the extravagance of the Roaring 20s, people are still reeling from our most recent “Great Recession.” And, the political landscape continues to change, and move to the left. One only need watch the recent State of the Union address to see that fact.
Every time we p...2019-02-0813 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastIs Aerospace Consolidation a Bad Thing, or Just a Thing?
The aerospace and aviation industries are changing as result of consolidation. Driven by need and the demands of large OEM’s, Rockwell Collins, UTC, B/E Aerospace, Esterline, Embraer and Bombardier and others have taken some dramatic steps to ensure shareholder value.
Where does this leave the little guy? Is he sunk, or is there room for entrepreneurial spirit? How does he compete if he’s, defacto, competing against his customer?
In a quick 20 minutes, my good friend Matt Johnson and I discuss the coming changes that smaller players will face.
2019-02-0118 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastRules to Get A+ Talent w/Matt Johnson
What are the traits of A+ Players, and how do we get them? Matt Johnson and Craig Picken share insight on finding A+ talent.
Nothing drives businesses more crazy than people who are afraid of making decisions. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
The two most important business assets are intellectual capacity and ability to adjust to rapidly changing markets
Hiring Managers MUST be immersed in the hiring process. It cannot be outsourced.
“A” Players will hire other “A” Players, “B” Players will not. “A” Players WILL NOT WORK for “B” Players...2018-06-2240 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastPilots and the Modern Flight Department w/Dave ScheuAttracting the right people in your company is vital for success. But what happens when you can’t offer as much financial incentive as the big players? What else can you offer to your future pilots? Is investing in their education worth it? In this episode, Dave Scheu talks about how to find talented pilots and lower turnover rates.
The technology is moving fast. It’s almost a shame that I wasted this money on a piece of equipment that is obsolete in a year. -Craig Picken
Takeaways + Tactics
It’...2018-06-0147 minThe Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Mission of the Aerospace Executive PodcastThe Aerospace Executive Podcast features in-depth conversations with executives, leaders, influencers and journalists in this dynamic, high-stakes industry. Hosted by Craig Picken, founder of NorthStar Group and the leading executive recruiter for the aviation and aerospace industry, you'll learn how top aerospace executives are developing their people, competing for talent, overcoming challenges and adjusting to industry trends to drive growth and profits.
We’re going to have some company leaders who have dominated the industry...people who are coaching executives...people who build airplanes and the technologies that are changing the industry. -Craig Picken
Craig ha...2018-03-0114 min