Podcast with Flex Air | Episode 25.8

What this episode covers

Guests: Cameron Kenning & Eddie Erdmann, Flex AirIn this episode, Landon speaks with Cameron and Eddie from Flex Air, a veteran-focused aviation training organization offering SkillBridge opportunities, A&P pipelines, and flight training programs. Both guests share their transition stories, the structure of Flex Air’s mentorship model, and realistic insights on the aviation industry for maintainers and pilots alike.  Whether you’re a crew chief thinking about becoming an A&P, a service member preparing for SkillBridge, or a veteran exploring pilot training, this episode delivers clarity, encouragement, and real-world guidance.A veteran-centric approach focused on flexibility, mentorship, and real opportunity—not just flight hours.  CFIs, base managers, and veteran mentors work together to support students through aviation training and transition.  Flex Air has placed orders for all-electric trainers and discusses what this means for pilots and mechanics.  Flex Air’s recent wins, including:AOPA Best Flight School (Pacific Region)Textron Top Flight School, receiving a brand-new 2025 Cessna 172These honors reflect training quality and student satisfaction.  How crew chiefs and other aviation MOSs convert military experience toward an FAA A&P certificate:8610 authorizationExperience gap training (recips, magnetos, sheet metal, fabric, etc.)Hands-on apprenticeship under Cameron10-day prep course for written/oral/practical examsFunding options discussed (COOL, VR&E, etc.).  Flexible schedules around medical appointments, family needs, and out-processing.Even partial SkillBridge participation can accelerate your transition significantly.  Breakdown of:Rotor Transition Program (fast multi-engine track)Zero-time to commercial pilot pathwayFleet overview (Cessna 172s, G1000-equipped aircraft, Beech Travel Air)141 vs. 61 options and how Flex Air helps track your time requirements.  Flex Air proactively books checkrides ~6 weeks out, helping students avoid the nationwide DPE bottleneck.  Discussion includes:The projected AMP shortage through 2028Increased cert numbers for separating military maintainersPilot hiring cycles and long-term opportunityWhy now is still the right time to train if aviation is your goal.  Notable alumni—like Tim Kirschbaugh and Jason Duvernay—who trained at Flex Air and now fly for legacy carriers.  “Veterans are extremely coachable and take critique better than almost anyone.”“Flex Air’s measure of success isn’t hours flown—it’s opportunities created.”“SkillBridge isn’t about completing everything; it’s about gaining a massive head start.”“There is no A&P slowdown. The industry needs maintainers more than ever.”“Pilot hiring is cyclical—train now and be ready for the next surge.”For SkillBridge, A&P pathways, flight training, or general transition guidance, Flex Air offers tailored support for veterans at every stage.

PodParley-generated summary based on available episode metadata and transcript content.