Unlikely as it might seem, in many ways, the pandemic has been an awakening. It’s temporarily relieved the pressure valve on the pilot shortage. It’s gotten companies to innovate in remarkable ways. It’s brought in a slew of first-time aircraft buyers. Military professionals are rejoining our industry. And flight departments are starting to hire again.
Now that enough time has elapsed, we can look at some of these alterations in our industry and take action to ensure that we’re not caught off guard during the next downturn. The following are a few of my observations.
Sheryl Barden, CAM, is CEO of Aviation Personnel International, the longest-running recruiting and HR consulting firm dedicated to business aviation. A recognized thought leader on workforce and leadership issues, she is an NBAA CAM Fellow, past member of NBAA’s board of directors and advisory council, and recipient of NBAA’s John P. “Jack” Doswell Award for lifetime achievement and service to business aviation.
