Industry Outreach to Students Mentoring Program

In direct response to requests from students enrolled, but not yet ready to graduate from universities, colleges, and training schools, HFI developed a new Industry Outreach Mentoring Programtailored specifically for students interested in or enrolled in a field of study preparatory to entering upon a career in the helicopter industry, or for students considering a career in the helicopter industry. Top industry leaders are invited to serve on a panel scheduled during HELI-EXPO each year.

The Panel Members answer questions posed by students, provide information on the general requirements of the various sectors of the industry with regard to entry-level positions, and strive to assist students to better understand the scope of knowledge and skill required in the helicopter industry.The commercial helicopter pilot and helicopter maintenance technician field is specifically addressed, along with other entry-level positions of various types. Panel Members answer general questions about the industry and the opportunities available.

The second Mentoring Session was held at HAI's HELI-EXPO 2009. Panel Moderator, Michael Suldo, Past Chairman of HFI and HAI and a Special Advisor to the HFI Board of Directors, will make time for student questions year-round. Other Panel Members have also pledged to make themselves available for reasonable periods of time during the ensuing year to assist students with questions that might arise. To set up a "Mentoring Moment" with Mike or one of the other Panel Members, contact 703-683-4646. 

INDUSTRY OUTREACH TO STUDENTS

MENTORING PANEL
2009

PANEL MODERATOR

Michael R. Suldo, Special Advisor to the HFI Board of Directors

Past CEO, Helicopter Foundation International & Past CEO, Helicopter Association International Lafayette, Louisiana

PANEL MEMBERS

Lyn Burks
President
Justhelicopters.com
367 SW Bluebird Ct.
Fort White, Florida 32038

John "JJ" Johnson
Director of Training
Guidance Helicopters, Inc.
6565 Crystal Lane
Prescott, Arizona 86301

Stacy Sheard
Production Test Pilot
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
S-76 & S-92 Commercial Completion
Stratford Connecticut

Torbjorn (TC) Cornell
Chief Pilot
Southern California Edison
Ontario, California 91761

Ardis Ashton
Bonneville Power Administration
Mail Stop NSL-WHSE, PO Box 491
Vancouver, WA 98663

Helicopter Foundation International
Helicopter Association International
1635 Prince Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Phone: 703-683-4646
www.helicopterfoundation.org

Pilot Mentoring Program – A Panel of top industry experts share their experiences and expertise with students attending or just completing flight school and programs of study in colleges and universities, as well as with pilots already in the industry looking toobtain valuable information from seasoned professionals.Students considering a career as a helicopter pilot are also welcomed.Each year the Panel agrees to donate time during the year to answer questions submitted through HFI staff.

Mentoring Panel
Maintenance Technician Mentoring Program—A Panel of top industry experts share their experiences and expertise with students attending or just completing training, and maintenance technicians already in the industry looking toobtain valuable information from seasoned professionals.Students considering a career as helicopter technicians are also welcomed.Each year the Panel agrees to donate time during the year to answer questions submitted through HFI staff. .