EPISODE · Apr 28, 2026 · 31 MIN
Teaching Pilots to Think | More Right Rudder Ep. 150
from More Right Rudder · host National Association of Flight Instructors
In this episode of More Right Rudder, NAFI program development manager Sarah Staudt talks with retired U.S. Air Force instructor navigator and CFI Mark Pierce about how aviation acronyms can be used as more than just memory aids. From PAVE and the 3P model to real-world aeronautical decision-making (ADM), this conversation focuses on helping pilots move beyond rote memorization and into true understanding. Pierce shares his journey from military instruction in the F-15E Strike Eagle and T-39 Sabreliner to teaching in general aviation, and how those experiences shaped his approach to instruction. They also discuss how instructors can better prepare students for checkrides, scenario-based training, and real-world flying decisions. Guest Bio Mark Pierce is a retired U.S. Air Force navigator and former instructor in the F-15E Strike Eagle and T-39 Sabreliner. He now instructs in general aviation and is the author of Eleven Acronyms Every Pilot Should Know, a guide to understanding the “why” behind common aviation acronyms. You can find Pierce’s book online here: https://www.amazon.com/Eleven-Acronyms-Every-Pilot-Should-ebook/dp/B0GKW39J5Y Thank you to Pilot Institute for sponsoring this episode! If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership.
What this episode covers
In this episode of More Right Rudder, NAFI program development manager Sarah Staudt talks with retired U.S. Air Force instructor navigator and CFI Mark Pierce about how aviation acronyms can be used as more than just memory aids. From PAVE and the 3P model to real-world aeronautical decision-making (ADM), this conversation focuses on helping pilots move beyond rote memorization and into true understanding. Pierce shares his journey from military instruction in the F-15E Strike Eagle and T-39 Sabreliner to teaching in general aviation, and how those experiences shaped his approach to instruction. They also discuss how instructors can better prepare students for checkrides, scenario-based training, and real-world flying decisions. Guest Bio Mark Pierce is a retired U.S. Air Force navigator and former instructor in the F-15E Strike Eagle and T-39 Sabreliner. He now instructs in general aviation and is the author of Eleven Acronyms Every Pilot Should Know, a guide to understanding the “why” behind common aviation acronyms. You can find Pierce’s book online here: https://www.amazon.com/Eleven-Acronyms-Every-Pilot-Should-ebook/dp/B0GKW39J5Y Thank you to Pilot Institute for sponsoring this episode! If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership.
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Teaching Pilots to Think | More Right Rudder Ep. 150
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