Career Series: Upholding Safety and Integrity in the Aviation Industry

In 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 integrity of the aviation system .The conversation also highlights:✈️ How drug and alcohol compliance programs work✈️ The human side of enforcement and balancing accountability with empathy✈️ Career pathways into aviation enforcement and compliance roles✈️ The role NHCFAE plays in mentorship, leadership development, and community outreachThis episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in aviation careers, federal service, safety and compliance, or learning how behind-the-scenes roles keep our skies safe.🔗 Interested in Aviation careers or joining NHCFAE?Visit 👉 https://www.nhcfae.org👍 Like, subscribe, and share to help us highlight diverse voices and career paths across aviation and aerospace.