Cover Photo by Jennifer Mulkern
Quick Facts:
Located at: Concord, New Hampshire, USA
Current job: Commercial pilot
First aviation job: Flight instructor
Favorite helicopter: Bell 407
Your current role?
I currently fly for JBI Helicopters based out of Pembroke, New Hampshire. We do everything from utility work, to charter work, to agricultural assistance. I mainly fly the Bell 206 and 407 and am currently being trained on the Bell 429.
Photo by Jennifer Mulkern
What about helicopters first captured your imagination?
I had my first helicopter flight when I was six weeks old. I grew up flying with my dad and was able to hover before I could drive a car. It seemed only natural to turn flying into a career.
What was your most memorable helicopter ride?
I’d say my most memorable flight was soloing on my 16th birthday. My family got permission to go up in the control tower and watch my three touch-and-gos. I remember that first moment lifting off the ground completely alone—I couldn’t believe how freeing that feeling was.
What are your career goals?
My career goals are pretty simple: to be the best that I can be, to never stop learning, and to make sure myself, my crew, and my passengers return home safe after every flight.
What advice would you give to someone pursuing your career path?
The best advice I can give to anyone pursuing an aviation career is to never underestimate the power of connections. This industry is small and tight-knit. Create a positive image and be as outgoing as you can be. You’ll be surprised how many doors will open for you.
What still excites you about helicopter aviation?
The thing I love about helicopter aviation is that it continues to challenge and excite me every day. No flight is the same, and there are always different elements to consider and work around.
What challenges you about helicopter aviation?
Helicopter aviation is always changing, whether it simply individual flight challenges or upgrading/learning new equipment and aircraft. Keeping an open mind and accepting change will always be a challenge—something I will happily take on.
What do you think is the biggest threat to the helicopter industry?
I know it’s been said often, but I believe that complacency is the biggest threat to all aspects of our industry. Comfort breeds complacency, and it’s important for us to recognize that natural instinct and strive to stay vigilant.
Complete this sentence: I know I picked the right career when …
… Monday rolls around and I can’t wait to go to work!
