And while there is plenty of hobnobbing and fun to be had between hangar parties and fleet fly-ins, much of the annual meet-up is spent discussing the issues that face the LGBTQ community throughout the aviation history. This year, the focus of these discussions was action and progress, where as in the past, they mainly centered on problematic issues.

Action and Progress

Eventually those grievances have to turn into plans of action, and that’s exactly what was accomplished at this year’s conference. The most apparent sentiment catalyzing this action was no one else will do it for you, you must take matters into your own hands.

Such was the case at the Transgender Break-out Session, where NGPA Board Member Erika DeLong delineated her plight as a transgender woman transitioning while working for an airline. She didn’t just tell her story, she related it to the action the NGPA Transgender Advocacy Committee is taking to make the aviation industry more inclusive of transgender people in their policies.

At the Allies Break-out Session, aviators outside of the LGBTQ community gathered to discuss the important role allies play in supporting LGBTQ aviators and achieving equal rights throughout the industry. Without allies, equality for LGBTQ aviators would be harder to come by, but with them and their support, that burden becomes lighter.

Down to business

Envoy Pilot recruiters FO Harrison Scott (right) and CA Ricardo Mata (left) speaking with potential Envoy pilots.

However, the Winter Warm-up is not only about making the industry more inclusive, but also a chance for Envoy to meet young aviators and help them begin their journey to an airline career. This year, Envoy upped the ante on their commitment to supporting the NGPA and became a Diamond Sponsor, with their plaque proudly on display during the Industry Expo.

Professional and student pilots in attendance had a chance to meet with our recruiters and discuss their options of becoming a pilot with Envoy. This year, we had a secret weapon; Envoy First Officer and YouTube star Swayne Martin helped recruit some fresh faces to Envoy.

FO Swayne Martin (left) and CA Ricardo Mata address students at a meet-and-greet.

At a meet-and-greet session, Swayne and Captain Ricardo Mata addressed student pilots and presented the many avenues a student can take to lead them to Envoy. Either through the Cadet Program, the Rotor Transition Program or as a Direct-Entry Captain, they demonstrated how Envoy is making the journey to the airlines a smoother ride.

Time flies when you’re flying fun

Some of the tail draggers that made their way to Palm Springs for the Queen of the Fleet contest.

When the recruiting pitch was over, the fun could begin. The first night, NGPA members gathered at the Palm Springs World War II Museum for live jazz and networking.

The following day, those who flew into Palm Springs put up their planes for a Queen of the Fleet contest, where everything from Cessnas to Embraer Phantoms to hot air balloons were on display. Finally, the conference culminated at the Formal Dinner Banquet, which was chock-full of emotions from touching memorials, hilarious antics and inspirational speeches from members of the aviation industry.

Envoy Pilot Recruiters with some of our American Airlines family members. From left to right, former Envoy pilot and current American FO Kiersten Orrick, American recruiter Cameron Rowe, Envoy FO Harrison Scott, American pilot Carrie Muehlbauer, American recruiter Heather Bowers, Envoy Director of Pilot Recruitment Andy LaSusa, Envoy FO Swayne Martin, Envoy CA Ricardo Mata, and American Inclusion & Diversity Senior Specialist Anila Jivanji.

Envoy is looking forward to next year’s conference and as a Diamond Sponsor, will continue to progress with the LGBTQ community and the NGPA’s mission of equality in the aviation industry. After all, Diversity & Inclusion is at the forefront of our strategic goals in solidifying our position as the world’s greatest regional airline.

Click here to view the full gallery from the NGPA Winter Warm-Up! 

With 2018 coming to a close, it’s time to review this year’s progress in RTP. From new initiatives to new planes, we are proud  to run a program that is always evolving and improving. 2018 was a year of progress and we look forward to continuing that in 2019.

Click here to read the end-of-year RTP newsletter!

First, I’d like to thank Envoy for giving me the opportunity by creating the very first RTP. I’m thankful that they were willing to train military helicopter pilots, and help ease the transition.

Their foresight has taken hold of the regional airline industry, and set up opportunities to help the military community transition into one of the best careers imaginable.

On the move

I transitioned from active duty in the Army after almost 10 years of service in April 2017. I spent most of my time flying Blackhawks in Assault and Medevac units between Ft. Campbell and Hunter Army Airfield.

My timing for the transition could not have been better.

Shortly after I made the decision to become an airline pilot, the industry as a whole began increasing their compensation for pilots. A few months later, Envoy went public with their RTP and I was one of the first to interview.

When I started at Envoy for training, it was some of the most intense training I had experienced to that point. With help from my classmates and guidance from their experienced training department, I made it through to my first flights as an airline pilot.

I was fortunate enough to be based out of Chicago – I’ll tell you that no other airport is better to cut your teeth. If you can handle it there, you can handle it anywhere.

My Initial Operating Experience training was a blast! Everything happens quickly above 250 knots and trying to stay ahead is tough to wrap your head around at first, but you’ll get the hang of it before your instructor releases you to the line.

Luckily, our prior experience flying military helicopters pays dividends. Our experience managing crews is extremely helpful, and our ability to manage high-stress situations is also a plus.

Just stay humble and listen to and seek advice from the many captains with whom you will fly. There is a wealth of knowledge coming from the pilots who have sat in those seats.

Boost your Quality of Life

First Officer Richie Mercado (right) with fellow Envoy RTP pilot, First Officer Shawn McLaughlin

After training, the day-to-day job is amazing – I truly love it! I find myself looking out the window like a child amazed that I’m cruising at six miles above the ground. I’m doing the job I never thought was within my reach growing up.

The best part of the job is the off time; my wife loves it, too. When I’m home, I’m 100-percent home.

That time at home has a higher quality today than it ever did on my weekends or leave while in the Army. Now that I’m here, it would be hard for me to go back to any other job that would require me to work the hours I did in the Army.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to serve our nation, and to support our military overseas. Now that I am a regional airline pilot with Envoy, I feel as though my life can only take off from here.

Now that Q3 (July-September) is almost over, Envoy’s Rotor Transition Program has both exciting milestones and changes to celebrate. This quarter, the program passed it’s two year anniversary, quickly surpassed it’s 300th student, and saw it’s first Captain upgrade. As the end of the year fast approaches, the Rotor Transition Program will continue to honor it’s past while forging ahead.

 Click here to read about the changes coming to RTP!

In the sweltering Alabama heat, thousands of aviators and aviation enthusiasts gathered to take in the glory of the Red Tails Over Montgomery Air Show, and to get up close with the marvelous flying machines that some can only dream to fly.

As part of its continuing support for our country’s military and veterans, Envoy was also part of the air show with a static display of the Embraer 175. For two days, on September 7 and 8, a crew of three Envoy pilots and three flight attendants gave a tour of the aircraft, from the cabin to the galleys to the flight deck.

Welcome aboard

One after another, thousands of attendees walked down the aisle, sat in the first class cabin and picked up a few cookies along the way. Many who passed through remarked how it was their first time aboard a commercial aircraft, and were eager to take a flight of their own.

Over the loudspeaker, the air show emcee revved up the crowd as he announced the next acts. Taxiing across the tarmac and onto the runway, a bright green and purple carbon-fiber plane took its position before taking off into a spectacular array of aerobatics that seemed to defy the law of physics.

Throughout the day, there were paratroopers showing off their precision landings, a taildragger landing on top of a moving truck, Marine A-4 Skyhawks performing tight barrel rolls, Red Tail F-16s from the 187^th Fighter Wing demonstrating tactical ground-support missions, and – best of all – the F-22 Raptor, in all its glory, slicing through the sky with the greatest of ease.

“The sound of freedom”

On the ground, a Red Tail P-51 Mustang and a B-17 Flying Fortress were on display to pay homage to the Tuskegee Airmen who escorted B-17 bombers to great success during World War II. Like swarms of bees to mighty flowers, air show attendees got to touch and experience the iconic aircraft of the U.S. Military, like the C-130 Hercules and KC-135 Stratotanker.

Whether a Junior ROTC cadet or a general aviation enthusiast, the common thread weaving through the crowd was their love and respect for our country and the men and women who serve in the military to keep us safe. There was no shortage of American flags, salutes to passing guardsmen or hands-on-hearts during the National Anthem.

“We had the best vantage point for the air show and as each jet flew over, the sound of freedom was felt by all of us.” said Envoy First Officer Jim Davis. “I’m proud to fly for Envoy knowing that it takes amazing care of its veterans and supports military initiatives alongside American Airlines.”

We’d like to thank the men and women at Dannelly Field who helped guide our plane, hooked us up with power and cool air, and for serving our country on a daily basis. Also, to the Envoy crew who attended the event and made it a special day for everyone involved, thank you: Captain Kyle Brantley and First Officer Jim Davis; Flight Attendants Elizabeth Bustamante, Alicia Morris and Jennifer Psota; and pilot recruiter First Officer Tyler Bridge.

Click here to view all of the photos from the Red Tails Over Montgomery Air Show

The high volume of graduates in the first half of the year means that plenty of RTP candidates are now in First Officer training and will soon be joining their peers on the line. For the Q2 newsletter, we wanted to provide more insight into what it’s like to fly the line at Envoy.

Click here to read the RTP Q2 Newsletter

The CAP assists these individuals by providing up to $30 thousand in financial assistance to get them back into flight training full time. By enrolling in the CAP, employees commit to building their flight hours full-time in order to land a job as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) at a local flight school.

One of these CAP participants is CFI Jesse Sinagra who currently instructs student pilots at Coast Flight Training in San Marcos, Texas. Coast is also one of Envoy’s partner schools for its Rotor Transition Program that helps military helicopter pilots transition to a commercial pilot career.

Jesse began his Envoy career as a Station Agent at Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) working on the ramp, at the gate and the ticket counter honing his customer service skills. Jesse was kind enough to answer a few questions about his progression through CAP and his hopes for a future of flying for Envoy and, one day, for American Airlines.

Envoy CFI Jesse Sinagra

Jesse Sinagra (right) at Dubuque Regional Airport working as a station agent.

Where and for how long did you work as an Envoy station agent? 

I worked as a station agent at Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) for approximately a year and a half. I worked as an agent while advancing my flight training at the University of Dubuque.

What did you like best about that position?

I have many fond memories working as a CSA, but what I loved most was working with the great people at my station. I was fortunate enough to have a great manager in Ryan Plumley and have developed lasting relationships with my other coworkers.

We always had a great time working together and when times were tough, we knew we could count on each other. Another reason why I loved my position was being around the airplanes and the flight crews as there was always something for me to learn. I also enjoyed being able to interact with the passengers and help them with their travels.

When were you bit by the ‘flying bug’? 

I caught the flying bug at a very early age, about six or seven years old. I was one of the lucky kids growing up in that knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life long before my peers. In fact, what really sparked my love of aviation, was when my family took a trip to Florida, and I enjoyed the flights more than I did the actual vacation.

What made you decide to take advantage of the Career Advancement Program?

I decided to be a part of the CAP, because it would provide me with a great opportunity to advance my flight experience and ease the transition from station agent to regional airline pilot.

How has the CAP benefited your life and career goals of becoming an Envoy/American pilot?

The CAP has given me the financial support I need to continue moving forward with my flight experience and has given me a “foot in the door” with Envoy. I love the idea of being able to transfer from a station agent to regional airline pilot for Envoy so easily.

Jesse (right) working as a Certified Flight Instructor at Coast Flight Training.

What advice would you give to other non-pilot Envoy employees about joining the CAP?

My advice would be to learn as much as possible about Envoy, build a good network with other pilots, work hard in training, fly safe and have fun. This is a unique program, and I would definitely recommend it to other aviators.

In a nutshell, explain your experience as a CFI at Coast Flight Training? 

Being a CFI at Coast Flight Training has really been a great experience for me. Instructing has taught me so much more about aviation than any other part of my training thus far.

My favorite part of the job is being able to train former military helicopter pilots how to fly Cessna Skyhawks. I have a rare opportunity to instruct pilots with thousands more hours than me how to fly airplanes. I always enjoy listening to their experiences flying helicopters.

How soon will you be training as an Envoy First Officer?

At my current rate, I plan on beginning my First Officer training by the fall of this year, and I am very excited to do so.

What are you looking forward to the most about becoming a commercial pilot?

Flying commercially has always been a dream of mine. I am really looking forward to working with some of the greatest pilots in the industry and training on some of the finest jet aircraft that airlines have to offer.

Part of the American and Envoy Veterans and Military Initiative, these special charters make travel to the Armed Forces Bowl simple and easy for soldiers and their families who might not have the means to make the trip. Each year, ASYMCA and Lockheed Martin team up to transport service members by bus from military bases in Altus and Lawton, Oklahoma and Killeen, Texas to the bowl game; the Envoy charters now add even more service members who can enjoy the game.

“This was a great opportunity to leave their day-to-day worries behind and start celebrating Christmas,” said William French, President and CEO of ASYMCA. “We’re grateful American Airlines and Envoy made it possible for them to enjoy the Armed Forces Bowl.”

Envoy sent six crews of pilots, flight attendants and volunteers to provide excellent customer service to the VIP passengers. While loading a flight, Envoy crews had the opportunity to check out one of the Army’s Huey helicopters on base.

“It’s an amazing service we provide to the military community, and a well-deserved one too,” said Envoy Flight Attendant Eric Rose. “We can never match what our country’s heroes give to us, but we can do our best to provide relief when they need time to relax and enjoy a football game!”

Maybe it was skill and preparation, but Envoy would like to think it provided a little bit of luck to the Army Black Knights who defeated the San Diego State Aztecs to the score of 42-35. HOOAH!

Following a long, successful career at American, Zane is back in the aviation industry but this time as a Professional Simulator Instructor (PSI) training new-hire pilots with their own dreams of flying commercial jets.

“I spent nearly 30 years at American and now I’m back,” says Zane. “When I learned Envoy needed instructors to help their growing pilot classes, I saw it as a great opportunity to give back to the aviation community and continue my passion for flying.”

When Zane interviewed for the PSI position, he was asked, ‘what do you bring to the table?’ It’s simple he says, he brings generations of experience. More than technical knowledge about instruments and controls, Zane brings business experience as a pilot interacting with coworkers, airports and unions.

Knowledge is power

During Zane’s training sessions, he wants to make sure that his students “keep their head in the ballgame,” he says. Meaning that an experienced pilot takes note of the day’s weather and plans their trip accordingly; or they prepare for a freezing day on the east coast or a busy taxiway at Chicago O’Hare.

Throughout his career, either as a fighter or airline pilot, Zane says that the most important ingredient for a successful pilot is knowledge. Whether it’s familiarity with the instruments, weather or flight plans, Zane tells his students that without complete certainty and confidence a pilot cannot flourish.

“These young men and women are sharp and want to learn – as an instructor, you can’t ask for anything better than that,” Zane says. “But even if there are some tough times, I’m always on their team because we want them to succeed and be the best pilot they can be.”

Born to fly

Back in high school, Zane used to promise his friends that he would be a fighter pilot in the Air Force. He says that he can’t remember a day when he wasn’t dreaming of dog fights and barrel rolls.

In 1966, Zane joined the ROTC at Southern Illinois University and graduated with a degree in government. But, Zane says, he knew he wouldn’t become a politician, he wanted the ROTC commission to begin training at Webb Air Force Base in Big Spring, Texas.

As the fourth-best pilot in his class, Zane had his choice of aircraft – the sleek F-4 Phantom. During his eight years in the Air Force, Zane had tours in Japan (where he met his wife), Thailand and Vietnam including the evacuation of Saigon in 1975.

Soon thereafter, Zane and eight of his Air Force buddies made the tough decision to retire from the military and become airline pilots. At the time there were fewer airlines than today, but that Zane still had his choice of airlines – he chose American.

Open the door, come on in

In the same way Zane imparts his wisdom to new-hire Envoy pilots today, he gained valuable guidance from the WWII fighter pilots with whom he shared the flight deck. There he honed his decision-making skills and continued his reverence for safety.

Even though commanding an aircraft as Captain was his favorite position, Zane moved up to Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. He also spent time as an instructor on five different aircraft types – today, Zane still flies the 1937 DC-3 Flagship Detroit to events like American’s SkyBall.

Needless to say, with all of Zane’s experience as a fighter pilot, captain, instructor and chief pilot, he’s the right person for the PSI job.

“I want my students to look at me like an encyclopedia of pilot knowledge,” says Zane. “I can give them the right thought process to make the right decisions, tell them how I personally handled a situation and offer them advice how to be a good coworker, too.”

Back in 1978, on Zane’s first day at American, he says he had an overwhelming excitement that lasted throughout his entire career. Today, in Envoy’s classrooms, as he’s going over pre-flight checklists and radio calls, he’s still carrying on that passion for aviation.

“I may have retired from American, but I’m here at this great company now,” says Zane. “When one door closes, you open another.”

If you’re interested in a position as a Professional Simulator Instructor or know someone who could fill that role, click here to learn more. Now offering a $20,000 sign-on bonus!

*$20,000 sign-on bonus payable upon completion of training. Two year commitment required.