Shows
NHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: From Service to Leadership – The Journey of David W. WilliamsFrom watching aircraft as a child in New Orleans to serving in the military and building a federal career, David Williams’ journey is a powerful story of perseverance, belief, and continuous growth.In this Career Series episode, Humberto Ortega sits down with David Williams, Logistics Management Specialist at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center and proud NHCFAE leader. David shares how his early passion for aviation, military experience, and commitment to self-development helped him navigate challenges and create a lasting impact in federal service.David reflects on the importance of resilience, earning certifications, mentorship, and believing in yourself—even when the...
2026-02-2316 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Aviation Management — Stewardship of the NASIn this episode of the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Excellence (NHCFAE) Career Series Podcast, host Humberto Ortega sits down with Gerald Acevedo, Acting Honolulu Group Manager, to discuss leadership, operational excellence, and stewardship of the National Airspace System.Gerald shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Army to leading teams responsible for maintaining radar, communication, and navigational systems across Hawaii, Guam, and the Micronesian Islands. He offers powerful insights into managing complex aviation infrastructure, supporting national defense operations, and leading large technical teams in high-stakes environments.This episode explores:• Leadership lessons from military service and Aviation ma...
2026-02-1613 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Air Traffic Leadership — Flight Path of Michael DobbinsIn this powerful episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, host Humberto Ortega sits down with FAA Operations Manager and Academy Instructor Michael Dobbins to discuss leadership, resilience, and building confidence in aviation.Michael shares his journey from Detroit to becoming a leader in air traffic control, opening up about failure, mentorship, work-life balance, and the importance of representation in the aviation industry. He offers practical advice for students, trainees, and professionals who feel stuck in their careers—and explains how confidence, service, and authenticity can shape long-term success.Whether you’re aspiring to work in aviation, navigating leadership role...
2026-02-0929 minNHCFAE PodcastCelebrating 50 Years of NBCFAEIn this special episode of the NHCFAE Podcast, host Oscar Torres sits down with Ejide D. Fashina, President of the National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NBCFAE), to discuss leadership, resilience, and the future of employee advocacy in aviation. Ejide shares her journey as an air traffic controller, her rise in leadership, and how NBCFAE has empowered professionals for nearly 50 years. From navigating the challenges of 2025 to preparing for the historic 50th Anniversary Conference in New Orleans, this conversation highlights unity, perseverance, and service.🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn about:Ejide’s leadership journey The mission and impact...
2026-02-0215 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Behind the Scenes of Aviation Technician OperationsIn this episode, host Misty Peña sits down with Misael “G” Goicuria, a key member of the aviation maintenance operations systems team, to explore the critical technology and coordination that keeps America’s airspace safe.Misael shares how technicians use real-time digital tools to log maintenance, coordinate with air traffic control, and ensure safe and efficient operations nationwide. From radar systems and communication networks to environmental controls and AI innovation, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at aviation safety.✈️ In this episode, you’ll learn:✔️ How aviation maintenance operations systems work✔️ The role of digital tools like TAP and ATour✔️ How t...
2026-01-2625 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: From Control Towers to ICAO — The Global Journey of Josue GonzalezIn this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, host Misty Peña sits down with Josue Gonzalez, ICAO Regional Officer of Air Traffic Management and Search and Rescue, based in Mexico City.Josue shares his incredible aviation journey—from serving as a U.S. Navy jet mechanic, to becoming an Air Traffic Controller, to leading global aviation safety initiatives with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).This conversation dives deep into:What ICAO is and how it shapes global aviationCareer paths within the FAA and international aviationLeadership, crisis management, and global coordinationThe power of mentorship, coaching, and professional gro...
2026-01-1922 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Tech Ops – The Heart of Air Route Traffic Control CenterIn this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series, host Misty Peña sits down with William Vallejos, a senior Technical Operations professional, to highlight the critical work that keeps our National Airspace System safe 24/7.William shares his inspiring journey—from growing up on a farm, to serving as an electronics technician on Apache helicopters in the U.S. Army, to becoming a principal Environmental Systems Specialist supporting one of the nation’s busiest Air Traffic Control Centers. His story underscores the importance of resilience, hands-on learning, teamwork, and dedication behind the scenes of aviation safety.✈️ In this episode, you’ll learn:Wh...
2026-01-1213 minNHCFAE PodcastInside NHCFAE Charitable FoundationIn this episode of the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation & Aerospace Employees (NHCFAE) Podcast, host Hilda Cortes, Director of Education, sits down with Misty Peña, Chair of the NHCFAE Foundation, to spotlight one of the most impactful initiatives within the organization — the Familia Scholarship Program.Misty shares the origins of the NHCFAE Foundation, established in 2018 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and explains how it enables tax-exempt donations that directly support educational opportunities for NHCFAE members and their dependents. With over $300,000 awarded in scholarships, this program continues to make a meaningful difference for families pursuing higher education in challenging economic tim...
2026-01-0509 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Upholding Safety and Integrity in the Aviation IndustryIn this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, host Karen Perez, Vice President of NHCFAE, sits down with Freidy Lazala, an Drug and Alcohol Compliance & Enforcement Inspector, to discuss one of the most critical yet lesser-known areas of aviation safety: drug and alcohol enforcement.Freidy shares what it means to protect the flying public by ensuring safety-sensitive aviation professionals—such as pilots, mechanics, flight attendants, and controllers—are fit for duty. He walks us through what a typical week looks like in this role, including nationwide travel, company inspections, compliance reporting, and enforcement actions that help maintain the inte...
2025-12-2915 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Radar Technology – Keeping Our Skies Safe and ConnectedIn this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series, host Karen Perez sits down with Patricia Navarro, an FAA radar technician, to explore the critical role radar technology plays in aviation safety and efficiency.Patricia shares her inspiring journey from the military to the FAA, explains how radar systems like ASDE-X, STARS, ASR-9, and NEXRAD support air traffic operations, and highlights how evolving technology keeps our skies safe. She also speaks candidly about resilience, lifelong learning, and navigating a male-dominated technical field as a Latina professional.This conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in aviation careers, radar technology, STEM...
2025-12-2227 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Tech Ops Instructor – Building Systems and Mentorship in AviationIn this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series Podcast, we sit down with Javier E. Quinones, FAA System Engineer, retired Oklahoma Air National Guard First Sergeant, and longtime NHCFAE member, to explore a powerful journey rooted in service, leadership, and technical excellence. Javier shares his career path from Airway Transportation Systems Specialist (ATSS) to instructor, manager, and second-level support system engineer, offering an inside look at how FAA technical operations support aviation safety nationwide. He explains the critical role of systems like the Terminal Doppler Weather Radar (TDWR) and Integrated Terminal Weather System (ITWS) in detecting hazardous weather conditions...
2025-12-1520 minNHCFAE PodcastThe Story Behind "Dancing into Opportunity: The Rhythm of Effective Communication" Excl. InterviewIn this inspiring episode of the NHCFAE Podcast, Host Hilda Cortes sits down with author, speaker, and transformational coach Migdalia Gonzalez to explore her journey from a distinguished federal career to writing her powerful book, Dancing Into Opportunity: The Rhythm of Effective Communication.Migdalia shares:The emotional promise to her son that sparked her bookHow communication is just like dance — full of rhythm, timing, and connectionHer proud roots, leadership lessons, and commitment to giving backPersonal stories of resilience, mentorship, and stepping into opportunitiesHer vision for future books, journals, and the upcoming Dancing Into Opportunity podcastThis conversation is heartfelt, motivating, an...
2025-12-0825 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Beyond Inspection - Breaking Barriers in Aviation SafetyIn this episode of the NHCFAE Career Series, President Oscar Torres sits down with longtime member, leader, and mentor Misty Peña, Assistant Manager in the FAA’s Office of Aviation Safety – Flight Standards Service, General Aviation Special Emphasis Investigations Team (SEIT).With 36 years of federal service, Misty shares her inspiring journey—from starting as a high school student aide in 1989 to becoming a respected investigator, mentor, and influential leader within both aviation and the National Hispanic Coalition for Aviation Employees. What you’ll learn in this episode:How Misty began her federal career at age 18Her role in aviation...
2025-12-0113 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Air Traffic Controller's Powerful JourneyIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Nat Perez, whose journey embodies hard work, resilience, and the power of community. From his humble beginnings in Mexico, growing up in West Sacramento, and watching his family work the fields — to serving in the U.S. Air Force, earning his radar and tower certifications, and becoming a leader in the FAA — Nat’s story is one that resonates deeply. Nat talks about: Migrating to the U.S. as a child Growing up in fear, working through hardship, and finding purpose Discover...
2025-11-2425 minNHCFAE PodcastCareer Series: Aerospace Engineer – Building the Future of FlightIn our first episode of the NHCFAE Career Series, President Oscar Torres sits down with Karen Perez, Aerospace Engineer and Vice President of NHCFAE.From childhood flights between New York and the Dominican Republic to licensing commercial space launches for companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab, Karen shares her remarkable journey in aerospace engineering — one built on passion, perseverance, and purpose.💬 Highlights in this episode:Karen’s path from biochemistry to aerospace engineering!What it’s like to license private rocket launches for the FAA!Breaking barriers as a Lati...
2025-11-1725 minNHCFAE PodcastThe Legacy of NHCFAE – Honoring Our Past PresidentsIn this special legacy edition of the NHCFAE Podcast, host John Espinosa and co-host Hilda Cortes sit down with three of our past presidents — Ron Lozano, Junior Zavala, and David Dominguez — to reflect on the legacy that built our Familia. From early beginnings to national impact, their stories reveal how courage, representation, and mentorship transformed the path for generations of Hispanic leaders in aviation.💬 You’ll hear:• How the NHCFAE began and why it continues to thrive• The challenges and victories that shaped our coalition• Stories of unity, advocacy, and leadership in action• Messages of perseverance and purpose for today...
2025-11-1039 minNHCFAE PodcastDesigning Your Next Chapter: Thriving After Federal ServiceHow do you reinvent yourself after retirement? Ruth Hurtado shares how to thrive with purpose, resilience, and faith beyond federal service. What does thriving look like after a 30-year federal career? In this heartfelt episode, host John Espinosa speaks with Ruth Hurtado, coach, consultant, and founder of RadiantLivin.com, about how to move from transition to transformation.Together they explore:✨ The emotional highs & lows of retirement✨ Building resilience through self-care, gratitude & faith✨ Creating a vision board & intentional plan for your future✨ Applying the WOOP method (Wish · Outcome · Obstacle · Plan) to achieve...
2025-11-0328 minNHCFAE PodcastChanging Generations Through ScholarshipsIn this inspiring episode of the NHCFAE Podcast, host John Espinosa sits down with Hilda Cortes, the Coalition’s Director of Education, to explore the heart of our mission — scholarships that change lives.Together, they share powerful stories of scholarship recipients, highlight the impact on families and communities, and break down how members and students can apply, give back, or get involved. From the Rene Matos and Danny Gutierrez Scholarships to the Cynthia Garcia Tuition Reimbursement and Foundation Member Scholarships, this episode dives deep into how education opens doors for future leaders in aviation and aerospace.What you’ll learn...
2025-10-2715 min
NHCFAE PodcastInside NHCFAE: Our Mission, Our Familia Supporting Aviation & Space ProfessionalsWelcome to the NHCFAE Podcast — where voices across aviation and space come together to inspire, inform, and connect.In our very first episode, President Oscar Torres introduces the mission and heart behind the National Hispanic Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NHCFAE).Hear how NHCFAE continues to empower professionals, advocate for inclusion, and create spaces where every story matters.This is more than a podcast launch — it’s the start of a movement to amplify voices across the industry.Subscribe & follow us: nhcfae.org Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter...
2025-10-2020 min