The Aerospace Executive Podcast

In today’s private equity landscape, the CFO role has become one of the most difficult and misunderstood jobs in the business world. Everybody thinks it’s about reporting numbers, tracking financials, and cutting costs.  But in reality, being a PE-backed CFO means living at the intersection of cash obsession, strategy, and leadership, while managing more stakeholders than anyone else in the C-suite. Too many CFOs still act like historians, closing the books weeks late and delivering rearview-mirror data. Meanwhile, companies are flying blind, making decisions without visibility into the most critical factor: cash flow. With leverage levels higher than ever and private equity funds demanding fast exits, that blind spot isn’t just dangerous, it’s fatal. That’s why the best private equity CFOs don’t just manage numbers.  They manage people, processes, and partners. They accelerate closes, implement real-time reporting, and educate leadership teams on how every decision hits the cash cycle.  One of the best at articulating this reality is my guest, Bob Gold. Bob has been CFO at public companies, private firms, and multiple private equity-backed businesses.  What are the biggest financial challenges in private equity, and why are they so common? How can CEOs set their CFOs up for success?  In this episode, Bob and I break down what it really takes to succeed as a CFO in private equity, from managing cash and banking relationships to designing the right KPIs and building a team you can trust.   You’ll also learn: Why the first 90 days of a CFO’s tenure should be focused on cash and team assessment How extending customer terms or delaying closes can quietly destroy a business Why private equity’s reluctance to invest in technology creates hidden risks The difference between “knowledge” and “intellect” and why holding onto knowledge can sink a finance team How great CFOs educate divisional leaders on the financial impact of their decisions Why operating on “two clocks” is the real PE playbook What it takes to build a true CEO–CFO partnership that drives both strategy and execution Guest Bio Bob Gold is a CFO, operating partner, transformation expert, treasury and turnarounds specialist. He is a leader and finance executive with a track record of matching execution with strategy to drive improved results in global organizations. Bob led three private equity portfolio companies through successful exits. His industry expertise includes Industrial B2B, Defense Government Contracting, Defense Electronics, and Consumer Products. Bob is a key “influencer” using fact-based data and superior communication skills to drive business and financial strategy. He’s recognized for building highly responsive finance teams and leading process improvements supporting rapid growth and organizational change in complex international companies. As a CFO, Bob has transformed complacent finance organizations into business partners that are a sought-after resource and advisor to internal business partners. Connect with Bob on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker, and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

In the defense industrial base, everyone knows the primes dominate the big programs, but that leaves a huge gap in the middle.  Startups don’t scale, the primes can’t move fast, and decades of consolidation have hollowed out the space in between. For years, everyone has recognized this gap, but no one has really solved it. The primes are getting bigger, the small innovators get attention but struggle to scale, and the middle tier keeps shrinking.  Meanwhile, the need for companies that can deliver speed, value, and scale has only grown more urgent. That’s starting to change. A new class of “next-gen primes” is emerging, companies that can think like small disruptors but deliver like established contractors. They’re leaner, faster, and built for the kind of problems the bigs won’t touch. One of the leaders of this movement is John Albers, retired Marine Colonel and now CEO of Albers Aerospace. After diving into entrepreneurship, he became a voracious student of business and started building what he calls a next-gen prime.  In less than a decade, he’s grown Albers Aerospace into a nine-site operation by combining organic growth, acquisitions, and a relentless focus on lean execution and leadership development. In this episode, John shares how Albers Aerospace is reshaping the defense industrial base, what it really takes to scale in this space, and why leadership culture, not technology alone, drives speed and impact.   You’ll also learn: How Albers Aerospace scaled from a one-man shop to 9 sites through a mix of organic growth and acquisitions Why humility and getting your “rear end kicked” is often the most important leadership lesson How over-consolidation at the top has created a roll-up opportunity for mid-tier defense companies Why financial literacy and leadership training are as important as operations in a fast-growing business Why speed, lean execution, and value, not allowable costs, win contracts in today’s environment How John thinks about building impact for the warfighter and the industrial base, not just chasing dollars   Guest Bio John Albers is the founder and CEO of Albers Aerospace, a Dallas-area defense and aerospace company organized into three business units. Since its founding in 2015, Albers Aerospace has grown rapidly through acquisitions and organic expansion, delivering innovative products and services to today’s warfighter. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel with 24 years of active duty, John served as a fleet pilot, flight instructor, and developmental test pilot. As an entrepreneur and senior executive, John brings more than 35 years of leadership and operational experience across defense acquisition and private industry. He thrives in fast-paced environments, excels at building and aligning teams, and is deeply committed to developing people while driving organizational growth. Visit https://www.albers.aero/ and connect with John on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers, and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

In aerospace and defense, every breakthrough is built on material science. From the alloys powering jet engines to the composites shielding spacecraft, innovation isn’t just about design—it’s about what the machines are made of.  Yet the way we discover and scale new materials hasn’t meaningfully changed in more than a century. Research cycles drag on for decades, costs skyrocket, and supply chains remain fragile.  Meanwhile, other nations have poured resources into material science—developing advanced alloys, stockpiling rare earths, and in many ways, weaponizing the periodic table. That leaves the U.S. and its allies with a hard question: how do you compete with adversaries accelerating discovery while you’re trapped in outdated cycles? The future of hypersonics, space defense, and even energy security depends on faster, smarter breakthroughs in material science. That’s where Joseph Krause and Radical AI come in. The New York–based startup is combining AI, autonomy, and materials expertise to compress R&D timelines from years to weeks—and slash costs along the way. In this episode, Joseph shares how a cold call to a VC led to the founding of Radical AI, why aerospace innovation is fundamentally a materials problem, and what’s at stake in a world where control of supply chains may decide the balance of power. You’ll learn: How Radical AI’s “materials flywheel” is redefining discovery and deployment Why rare earths and advanced alloys are now a geopolitical flashpoint What it takes to build a deep-tech culture driven by speed and mission Joseph’s journey from PhD researcher to founder—and how it could reshape the future of defense and space   Guest Bio Joseph Krause is the co-founder and CEO of Radical AI. Radical AI is reinventing the way materials science is done and designing new materials for the world’s needs. Harnessing the most advanced AI discovery engine and full-scale laboratory automation, they’re pioneering a bold new era of innovation, accelerating the development of materials that transform human development. Radical AI is made up of a world-class group of materials scientists, physicists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Visit https://www.radical-ai.com/, email joseph@radical-ai.com, or connect with him on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

In aviation, the most transformative breakthroughs often take place far above the commercial flight lanes, and far below the public radar.  But in today’s defense and aerospace economy, those breakthroughs are harder than ever for small companies to bring to life.  Government budgets overwhelmingly favor the largest primes. Smaller, more agile innovators are forced to bankroll their own R&D while competing against firms with deeper pockets, stronger political clout, and guaranteed contracts.  Venture-style “build-to-flip” incentives tempt some to chase quick exits over long-term quality. Even when technology works, commercial adoption can stall as customers demand bespoke designs for each use case. Swift Engineering’s record-breaking high-altitude glider is one such breakthrough fighting its way through that gauntlet.  Designed to fly at 67,000 feet for days at a time, this ultra-light, solar-powered aircraft can do what satellites can’t: hold a fixed position, deliver real-time intelligence, and land on a runway. At just 1% of the cost. For Hamed Khalkhali, Swift’s president, the innovation story isn’t just about engineering excellence. It’s about surviving and thriving in a system that often seems built for incumbents.  In this conversation, he unpacks the strategic, funding, and talent challenges that determine which companies survive in the next wave of aerospace innovation.   You’ll also learn: High-altitude, solar UAV that outperforms satellites at 1% of the cost. Why system integration is aerospace’s next frontier. The funding squeeze forcing small firms to self-finance R&D. The “moral accuracy” gap shaping U.S. drone strategy. How fresh grads can drive bigger breakthroughs than veterans. Keeping start-up creativity alive in bigger organizations. Guest Bio Hamed Khalkhali is the President of Swift Engineering and an adjunct professor at Cal Poly Pomona, with more than 25 years of experience spanning technical innovation, leadership, and cross-disciplinary communication. He brings over a decade of expertise in system-level design for Fly-by-Wire flight control systems with the highest safety standards (FDAL-A), along with deep knowledge of ARP-4752, DO-160, and DO-178 certification processes. Throughout his career, Hamed has led high-performance engineering organizations, managing teams across mechanical, electrical, verification and validation, manufacturing, AI, machine learning, quality control, supply chain, and R&D. He is known for integrating manufacturing engineering into the earliest stages of design, optimizing products through rigorous processes such as Six Sigma, Lean, Kaizen, and design-for-manufacturability. His leadership approach blends technical precision with a focus on systems integration, efficiency, and innovation in both aerospace and defense. Connect with Hamed on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

As AI continues to reshape everything from medicine to flight decks, the question isn’t whether it’s coming to your organization; it’s whether leaders are ready for it.  The future belongs to executives who can blend critical thinking with adaptive leadership, who can shed old assumptions and operate ahead of the curve.  According to psychologist and organizational strategist Eric Olson, the most crucial skill for tomorrow’s leaders is resilience rooted in clarity, connection, and courageous action. What’s driving this leadership revolution isn’t just digital disruption; it’s cognitive disruption. Across industries, AI is exposing the limits of traditional thinking and highlighting the cost of bias, rigidity, and ego-driven leadership. In this high-stakes environment, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and mission-first thinking are no longer soft skills; they’re survival tools. Eric Olson, PhD, is the founder of EMO Advisors and a trusted advisor to leaders at Microsoft, Hawaiian Airlines, Ford, and Spirit Airlines. In this episode, we unpack the emerging playbook for 21st-century leadership, from the cockpit to the boardroom.  You’ll hear how elite teams regulate for excellence, and what over 1,000 pilots revealed about what makes teams thrive under pressure.  You’ll also learn: Why past performance fails in AI-disrupted environments, and what to assess instead The surprising truth about pilot personalities  How Microsoft is reengineering its executive ranks to lead in an AI-first world What the Norwegian Sovereign Fund did to eliminate bias and boost performance Why effective leaders must press pause during crises to regain clarity How self-regulation and cross-functional trust reduce catastrophic errors in high-stakes teams The hidden costs of amygdala-driven leadership, and how to train for resilience How Delta Airlines is using AI to extract more wallet share, and why that's just the beginning The “Olson Resilience Model” that Fortune 50 teams use to perform under pressure   Guest Bio Eric Olson, PhD, is the founder of EMO Advisors. He develops leaders and management teams to improve business performance through a growth mindset. He builds resilience with senior teams using strategic planning offsites, culture change, innovation labs, team coaching, and other methods. Eric’s client list includes Microsoft, Hawaiian Airlines, Ford, GitHub, IBM, The Coca-Cola Company, Disney, and Novartis, among many others. He works in the digital transformation space (Cloud + AI, mixed reality, engineering, UX, devices, etc.). Eric coaches leaders to build highly engaging cultures through a blend of financial, organizational, and psychological insights. Connect with Eric on LinkedIn.  About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

Commercial aviation is booming, but not for the reasons you'd expect. While the media fixates on tariffs, inflation, and geopolitical risks, industry insiders are seeing a very different picture. Airline profits are up, demand is strong, and aircraft backlogs are stretching eight years into the future. But underneath the optimism is something more nuanced: a market defined by high-cost inputs, a scramble for qualified labor, and a reshuffling of what counts as “value” in M&A. In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, M&A specialist Bill Alderman returns for his quarterly check-in on the state of the aerospace and defense sector.  We unpack the surprising resilience of commercial aviation, why job shops are suddenly hot properties, and the real reasons behind rising multiples in the MRO and manufacturing space. Key Topics Covered: Why Job Shops Are Suddenly a Seller’s Market The Real Tariff Story MRO’s Growth May Have Peaked  Delta’s Blowout Quarter and What It Signals  Good Accounting is Deal Fuel Defense Two Speeds, One Future Guest Bio William H. Alderman (Bill) is the Founding Partner of Alderman & Company. Bill is an M&A specialist in the middle market of the aerospace and defense industry with over $2 billion in mergers and acquisition-related transactions to his name. Prior to founding Alderman & Company in 2001, Bill worked for 15 years on Wall Street and in the Aerospace & Defense Industry, principally on M&A transactions in the middle market. His employers included BT Securities, Fieldstone, and General Electric. Bill is a Securities Principal registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and has four securities industry licenses (Series 7, 24, 63, and 65). Bill is a commercial pilot and owns and operates a Cirrus SR22. URL Link: https://www.aldermanco.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamalderman/ About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker, and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers, and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.      Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

The new space race is beginning; It’s not just between nations, but between commercial giants, shadow governments, and emerging players staking claims to orbits that are becoming dangerously crowded. The world is entering an era where control of the orbits will define global power. What’s fueling this revolution isn’t just rocket science. It’s economic scale, exotic propellants, and a surge in miniaturized, high-functioning satellites. But with this explosion comes risk: orbital debris fields, collisions that could cripple constellations, and the looming specter of space warfare.  Join Tory Bruno, CEO of United Launch Alliance, the man behind one of the most ambitious launch companies, and me on this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, Tory bring unparalleled insight into what’s next in space - from transforming ULA away from use of Russian engines to pioneering modular rockets designed for both commercial and defense missions, he has done it all! We cover the radical shifts reshaping orbital real estate, why small launch companies are failing despite demand, and why directed energy weapons in space might be the future of global defense.   You’ll also learn: Why the true space cost revolution isn’t in launch, but in satellite architecture The hard truth about the “300% drop in launch prices” myth How mini satellites are creating billion-dollar constellations and traffic jams in orbit The quiet arms race: Anti-satellite weapons, Kessler syndrome, and debris fields that could end entire constellations Why lasers may be the only real answer to hypersonic threats Why methane propulsion is suddenly viable and what finally cracked the code Why the biggest competitive edge isn’t rockets, it’s people   Guest Bio Tory Bruno is the President and CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA), the largest rocket launch company in the world. Since taking the helm in August 2014, he has led ULA through a transformative era, retiring legacy systems, developing the next-generation Vulcan rocket, and expanding the company’s commercial and national security portfolio. Before ULA, Tory spent over three decades at Lockheed Martin, where he began his career as a propulsion engineer and steadily rose through the ranks to become a senior executive. He has deep expertise in advanced propulsion, hypersonics, missile defense, and launch systems, and is widely recognized as one of the aerospace industry’s most accomplished and forward-thinking leaders. Connect with Tory on LinkedIn. About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

A fully loaded airliner lined up to land on a taxiway where four fuel-packed jets were waiting to depart. A catastrophic crash was avoided—by just 59 feet. What caused the near-miss? Not a single pilot’s error, but a systemic breakdown: fatigue, communication failures, flawed assumptions, and organizational complacency. In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, I’m joined by Eckhard Jann—former airline captain, aviation safety investigator, and best-selling author of Error One. With over 30 years of experience across airlines, healthcare systems, and global safety organizations, Eckhard shares how accidents are almost always set in motion long before anything "goes wrong." What actually causes disasters? How do we get better at spotting the first domino before it falls?  Eckhard shares why “blame the individual” is the most dangerous mindset of all, and how single-plane operators can up their safety management.  You’ll learn: Why human error is never the true starting point of a disaster The “Swiss cheese model” of safety and how latent failures align How to conduct internal investigations that go beyond surface-level analysis Why confidential reporting systems are essential in high-risk industries What the aviation world teaches hospitals, banks, and factories about risk 3 critical questions every executive should ask to test their safety system Why attitude (not skill or knowledge) is the biggest driver of accidents How complacency creeps in and what leaders can do to stop it   Guest Bio Eckhard Jann is an author, speaker, pilot, and business consultant, and error management and error culture expert. With over 15 years of experience as a business consultant and more than 35 years in commercial aviation, he brings in-depth expertise in safety and crisis management. In his current role, he supports organizations in implementing robust error management systems and fostering a safety culture that minimizes risks and enhances operational excellence. Eckhard’s goal is to enable sustainable improvements through strategic consulting and proven practices in error management. Drawing on his experience as a pilot and safety manager, he provides teams with practical solutions that have proven effective in aviation. To get a discount on Eckhard’s Investigation Training in September 2025, visit aviationinvestigation.com and use code AEP25.     About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm, so our show reaches more people. Thank you!   

Today’s defense landscape is chaotic and fast-moving. Drones, AI, autonomy, and cyber threats are reshaping how wars are fought…and how the Pentagon spends.  For companies and CEOs, the barrier to entry has never been lower. Any startup with a pitch deck and some funding can say they're in “defense.” But actually succeeding in this market? That’s never been harder. Small businesses get lost in red tape, big businesses lose their edge chasing shiny objects. Most companies looking to break into the defense space still pitch like it’s 2005, leading with tech specs, chasing every shiny RFP, and assuming that great engineering sells itself. It doesn’t…not in today’s environment. So what’s the right strategy in this market? How do companies set themselves up to win?  In this episode, I sit down with Gemo Yesil, founder and managing partner of Bastion Atlas, to unpack why so many well-funded startups, savvy CEOs, and legacy contractors are falling flat, and what it really takes to win in today’s high-stakes, high-complexity market. Gemo knows the DoD world inside and out. An MIT-trained aerospace engineer, Air Force veteran, and founder of a fast-scaling fractional BD firm, he’s seen firsthand how companies of all sizes struggle with the same fundamental issue: a lack of clear, executable strategy. Gemo explains how defense acquisition has evolved from lumbering legacy programs to fast-moving, software-driven warfare. He shares why the real differentiator today isn’t tech specs or connections, it’s clarity: about your market, your business model, and what “good” defense revenue actually looks like. You’ll also learn: The biggest misconceptions companies have when trying to sell to the DoD Why most “strategies” aren’t really strategies and how to create one that’s tangible and repeatable What it actually means to define “good business” in the defense sector The risks of chasing large contracts that don’t align with your long-term goals How Bastion Atlas approaches fractional business development and execution Why understanding the DoD’s operational context is key to communicating product value The growing shift toward treating AI and software as major weapon systems Why traditional consulting is fading and how fractional BD is becoming the new model How to win with process, patience, and a long-term perspective   Guest Bio Gemo Yesil is a combat veteran, aerospace engineer and founder and principal at Bastion Atlas. He is a Global Defense Business Development executive with 20 years of experience, and a dual-rated U.S. Air Force pilot, who has flown Combat Rescue helicopters and Tactical Airlift jets in Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and South America. After managing Fortune 500 engineering teams on multiple $2B+ programs at Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin and scaling his EdTech startup nationally, Gemo has served as CMC Electronics' Global Sales & Strategy Director, Gecko Robotics' Head of Defense Business Development, and HABCO Industries’ VP of Sales & Marketing. He launched Bastion Atlas in 2024 to assemble a team of revenue growth experts and scale their impact across the global Aerospace & Defense industry. Gemo remains proudly connected to his alma mater (MIT), retains an active security clearance, and — as a personal passion — continues to manage national STEM Education initiatives. To learn more, visit https://www.bastionatlas.com/ and connect with Gemo in LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

Planes scooping water from lakes. Crews flying into firestorms. Mechanics maintaining aircraft in warzone-like conditions.  It sounds like a military operation, because in many ways, it is. As wildfires grow more frequent, more destructive, and more deadly, the national spotlight is turning to one of the most critical and overlooked fronts in disaster response: aerial firefighting.  Events like the Lahaina fire and the Palisades blaze have shown just how high the stakes are and how essential rapid, airborne intervention has become in saving lives, homes, and ecosystems. Bridger Aerospace sits at the center of this transformation. With a mission rooted in military discipline and public service, the company combines aviation, emergency response, and cutting-edge technology in a way few others can. In this episode, I’m joined by Sam Davis, CEO of Bridger Aerospace, operator of the largest private fleet of CL-415 “Super Scoopers” in the U.S.  Sam opens up about what it’s really like to run a year-round, 200-person aviation operation with aircraft flying low over burning terrain across the country.  From supply chain crunches to political backlash, it’s a raw look inside one of the most demanding jobs in aviation today. We also talk about how Bridger Aerospace is pioneering wildfire response using military-grade sensors, early detection aircraft, and a culture of service that rivals special ops. You’ll learn: Why aerial firefighting is one of the most complex aviation operations in the U.S.  How Bridger balances safety, inventory, and downtime in remote environments  What it takes to recruit and train elite pilots for low-altitude wildfire missions  Why sensors, software, and year-round deployments are the future of firefighting  How culture, passion, and purpose drive performance in high-risk settings  The role of private enterprise in strengthening America’s wildfire defense    Guest Bio Sam Davis is the CEO of Bridger Aerospace. Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and aerospace services company based in Belgrade, Montana, located at the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (KBZN). It was founded in 2014 to support frontline firefighters with world-leading technology and aerial fire suppression systems. Since its inception, the company has grown from operating a single plane to commanding a significant Air Attack fleet, the most modern fire imaging and surveillance aircraft, and the world’s largest private Super Scooper fleet. Sam is integral in facilitating revenue growth, implementing operational efficiency, and executing strategic initiatives to expand services and global footprint. Visit https://bridgeraerospace.com/ and connect with Sam on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

Drones flying over Air Force bases. Unidentified aerial systems evading detection. A homeland vulnerable to $1,000 weapons while billion-dollar jets sit powerless. It’s not the plot of a futuristic war movie. It’s the uncomfortable reality facing U.S. defense leaders today. In this episode, I’m joined by retired four-star General and former Commander of U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) and NORAD, Glen VanHerck. This is an unfiltered look at the growing threats to homeland security and the urgent need to rethink how America defends its skies. With decades of experience flying F-15s, F-35s, and stealth bombers, General VanHerck has spent his career on the frontlines of aerospace defense.  But what he witnessed during his final years in command prompted him to speak out: America is not ready for the threats of today, let alone tomorrow. From the vulnerabilities exposed by drones over Langley to the ambitious "Golden Dome" missile defense initiative, General VanHerck offers an insider perspective on why policy, not just technology, is our greatest weakness and how a layered, agile, and industrial-scale approach could change the game.   You’ll learn: Why low-cost drones may pose the biggest threat to U.S. national security  The real story behind the drone incursions at Langley Air Force Base  “Golden Dome” and why it's America’s Manhattan Project for defense  The policy, tech, and industrial changes needed to protect critical infrastructure  How the U.S. can rebuild trust, capacity, and innovation across its defense ecosystem  Why vocational education, industrial revitalization, and AI will define the next era of defense   Golden Dome isn’t just missile defense. It’s a Manhattan Project-level effort. -Gen. Glen VanHerck   Guest Bio General Glen D. VanHerck is Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).  NORAD conducts aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning in the defense of North America.  USNORTHCOM partners to conduct homeland defense, civil support, and security cooperation to defend and secure the United States and its interests. General VanHerck is a graduate of the University of Missouri and was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program.  He has a diverse operational and training background that includes assignments in the F-15C, F-35A, B-2A, and B-1B with over 3,200 flight hours.  He has served as an instructor pilot and flight examiner in the F-15C, B-2A, and T-6A. Additionally, he served as a U.S. Air Force Weapons School instructor in the F-15C and the B-2A. Connect with Gen. VanHerck on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

In complex industries like aerospace, defense, and manufacturing, there’s a dangerous disconnect between the boardroom and the factory floor. Executives focus on margins, growth, and shareholder value—but the employees making daily decisions often don’t understand how their work impacts the bottom line.  Why? Because no one ever taught them. In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, Dr. Kevin Koharki, former investment banker and now finance professor at Purdue University, explains how companies can unlock massive performance gains by teaching finance fundamentals to their workforce. From engineers and sales teams to HR and operations, when employees understand financial strategy - how cash flow works, what drives ROI, how margin impacts decisions - they become smarter, more aligned, and more effective. Kevin shares how he's helped Fortune 100 companies, private equity-backed aerospace firms, and industrial organizations build a culture of financial literacy that transforms performance from the ground up.   You’ll learn: Why frontline employees often don’t understand P&L ownership The ROI of teaching finance basics across the organization Why most corporate leaders don’t know how to read financial statements The difference between academic finance and real-world business acumen How financial education improves decision-making, culture, and cash flow If you're leading a complex organization and want to align your teams around financial outcomes, this episode is for you.   Guest Bio Kevin Koharki MBA, PhD is the founder of CAE Consulting, LLC.  He consults with, advises, and provides keynote speeches for some of the world’s largest firms (e.g., Fortune 100) across various industries such as aerospace and defense, banking, insurance, distribution, manufacturing, law firms, among others. He specializes in developing employees’ and Executives’ financial acumen so they understand and can communicate the financial value of their work, optimizing CEOs’ capital allocation priorities across their respective organizations. In doing so, clients benefit from enhanced organizational trust, culture, and performance.  Kevin is an expert financial analyst who has analyzed hundreds of firms over a 20-year career (including as an M&A analyst).  In addition, he has taught financial statement analysis at the Executive, Masters, and Undergraduate levels for 15 years at Top 50 universities.   He can be reached at kevin.koharki@caecoach.org, www.caecoach.org, https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkoharki/, or (765) 637 – 3206   About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

“You go do your thing—I’ve got this.” The words every CEO wants to hear. It means the job will get done – no excuses!. That’s real ownership—not just doing tasks but taking full responsibility for results, owning the outcome.  But can you teach that mindset? In this episode, we get straight into extreme ownership—what it means, how it shows up in high-performing executives, and why it separates the top 5% from the rest. In today’s talent market, where every hire needs to be strategic, accountable, and fast-moving, ownership is non-negotiable.   We cover: Why ownership means relieving your boss of mental overhead How to move from reactive to proactive leadership What hiring managers really look for in executive candidates Why tracking activity (yes, still) matters How true leaders handle career and financial decisions How to recognize—and reject—blame culture   And yes, we take on the sacred cow of “relationship selling” and why it might be killing your sales team’s performance.   About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

In the aerospace and defense industry, unpredictability is a constant—but there’s a big difference between manageable risk and outright volatility. With tariff changes, shifting trade policy, and rising political uncertainty, the real threat isn’t just higher costs. It’s the cascading impact these factors have on employment, supply chain stability, and economic confidence across the sector. But while headlines focus on chaos, the real story is unfolding elsewhere. Aerospace market fundamentals are solid. Demand is strong. And strategic investors are making big moves—especially in business aviation.  Behind the scenes, this sector is evolving fast, and the implications for OEMs, MRO providers, and private equity are significant. In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, sell-side investment banker Bill Alderman joins us for his quarterly deep dive into the state of the industry. We unpack why business aviation remains a top-performing segment, how consolidation in the MRO and aftermarket services space signals deeper transformation, and what smart leaders are doing to stay ahead—by focusing on what they can control rather than chasing headlines.   Key Topics Covered: → Tariff Whiplash and Aerospace Workforce Planning How rapid shifts in international trade policy could lead to unintended layoffs across aerospace and defense sectors. → The Rise of Business Aviation Why record-low inventories, continued demand, and strong order backlogs are fueling growth for business jet OEMs and MRO providers. → Private Equity’s Big Bet on MRO What’s driving the surge in M&A activity as investors snap up smaller aerospace maintenance and repair shops. → Boeing’s Cultural Crossroads Why Boeing’s biggest challenge isn’t global politics—it’s rebuilding internal morale, leadership credibility, and trust with customers.   Anecdotally, things look good in the M&A market, but I am worried that the noise in the system could lead to layoffs, and that’s not good for anybody. -Bill Alderman   Guest Bio William H. Alderman (Bill) is the Founding Partner of Alderman & Company. Bill is an M&A specialist in the middle market of the aerospace and defense industry with over $2 billion in mergers and acquisition-related transactions to his name. Prior to founding Alderman & Company in 2001, Bill worked for 15 years on Wall Street and in the Aerospace & Defense Industry, principally on M&A transactions in the middle market. His employers included BT Securities, Fieldstone, and General Electric. Bill is a Securities Principal registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and has four securities industry licenses (Series 7, 24, 63, and 65). Bill is a commercial pilot and owns and operates a Cirrus SR22. URL Link: https://www.aldermanco.com/ LinkedIn - William Alderman https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamalderman/   About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

The helicopter industry is known for sky-high complexity, but one company is proving that innovation doesn’t have to be complicated. For too long, the industry has settled for slow, costly, and overly complex machines, pushed forward by legacy manufacturers who cater to large government contracts and niche elite buyers.  But there’s a shift happening now, one that puts simplicity, reliability, and affordability at the center of innovation. At the forefront of this transformation is Robinson Helicopter, a company best known for its rugged, no-nonsense civilian aircraft.  Under the leadership of CEO David Smith, Robinson is entering a new era, one that’s not only challenging the norms of vertical lift but redefining what modern utility helicopters can look like with the launch of the new R88. David isn’t just an industry veteran, he’s a rare blend of engineering insight, strategic leadership, and real-world pragmatism.  With roots at Bell Helicopter and MIT, and deep experience in clean-sheet design and simulation technology, he’s now steering Robinson into ambitious territory, from launching new aircraft to manufacturing drones and reshaping workforce culture. In this episode, David gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the launch of the R88, his approach to leading a legacy brand into the future, and how Robinson is quietly disrupting both the manned and unmanned aircraft space. You’ll also learn: Why helicopter designs have remained stagnant for so long How Robinson plans to compete on simplicity, reliability, and price What makes the R88 a game-changer for EMS, utility, and tourism missions Why vertical integration and in-house manufacturing are Robinson’s biggest strengths How Robinson is entering the drone market (and what makes their design better than quadcopters) What it takes to build a high-performance, high-loyalty workforce in aerospace today   Guest Bio David Smith is the president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. He leads employees as they develop and produce cost-effective, efficient, and safe helicopters for customers all over the world. David loves helping teams grow and improve performance in engineering and manufacturing companies, especially in the aerospace industry, where he has a proven track record of delivering results and driving innovation. Prior to joining Robinson Helicopter Company in March 2023, David held leadership positions at Bell Flight and TRU Simulation + Training, where he successfully executed cost restructuring measures, improved business performance, and helped to drive the next generation of manufacturing operations. Dave is passionate about supporting non-profits and charitable efforts to help our veterans, develop tomorrow's leaders, and grow the American manufacturing industrial base. Connect with David on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://craigpicken.com/insights/.  To learn more about Craig Picken, visit https://craigpicken.com/.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

The way we travel hasn’t changed much in decades, and it’s not because people don’t want better. It’s because legacy systems have kept the industry locked into outdated models.  But a major shift is underway, and it’s poised to radically redefine the entire experience of booking, flying, and managing travel. At the heart of this transformation is AI-powered personalization and the modernization of airline infrastructure. The goal? To give travelers a seamless, flexible, customizable, retail-like experience, from the moment they think about a trip to the moment they return home.  That means smarter pricing, bundled offers, and digital self-service that actually works—even when your plans don’t. FLYR is one of the companies leading this evolution, helping airlines move from rigid legacy systems to modern platforms that allow for dynamic retailing.  Joining me today is Sam Chamberlain, Chief Product Officer at FLYR and a veteran in the travel technology space. Sam and his team are building the digital engine behind what they call the “limitless future of travel” and today, he’s giving us a look under the hood. We explore what this shift means for travelers and what airlines need to do to stay competitive in a world where customers expect more than just a seat from point A to point B. You’ll also learn: Why booking travel hasn’t changed in decades “Offer-and-order” booking and how it will change how we travel How airlines can capture more customer loyalty and revenue How to shift legacy travel booking into the modern world    We’re crafting the limitless future of travel. It’s the notion of moving away from the flight being the center of everything, to a more digital retail standard. -Sam Chamberlain   Guest Bio Sam Chamberlain is the Chief Product Officer at FLYR. He is an experienced product leader in travel technology, having worked in and with airlines for the last 20 years, predominantly in the Pricing and Revenue Management space. He helps airlines optimize revenue generation through the entire ecosystem of offer-and-order-based travel retailing and, more recently, in the development of ancillary-powered travel experience products. Sam has launched multiple new commercial revenue optimization products that have helped power the generation of billions of dollars of annual airline revenue globally. He has a broad experience of leading teams that bring value-driving products to market through a market-driven (outside-in) product development philosophy and has held responsibility for multiple aspects of the product life cycle. Visit https://flyr.com/ for more information, and connect with Sam on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://craigpicken.com/insights/.  To learn more about Craig Picken, visit https://craigpicken.com/.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

After the Eagles’ Super Bowl LVII loss in 2023, Jalen Hurts said, “You either win or you learn.” It was a powerful reflection on turning setbacks into lessons. Fast forward to 2025, Hurts led the Eagles to a dominant Super Bowl win, exemplifying how learning from past defeats can pave the way to future success. But here's the question: Do we need to wait for failure to start learning? Success can be a comfortable place, but it's also where complacency can creep in. The key is to stay proactive in our growth, even when things are going well. What if we could learn while we're winning, so we don't have to learn because we lost? In this special Million Dollar Careers edition of The Aerospace Executive, we delve into strategies for continuous learning during times of success.  We discuss how high achievers can maintain their edge, avoid complacency, and prepare for future challenges by embracing a mindset of constant improvement. Tune in to discover how to keep evolving, even at the top of your game.    You’ll also learn: Why learning doesn’t have to be punitive  Why you need to watch the tape even if you won the game How to self-awareness into self-actualization  Guest Bio Robert is the Founder & President of Houghton Search Group (formerly Management Recruiters of Fairfax, Inc.). Rob inspires trust and guides the Mid-Atlantic insurance community in the acquisition and retention of Top Talent. Rob specializes in the executive placement of Property and Casualty and Employee Benefits professionals across the United States. Connect with Rob on LinkedIn.  About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.      Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

Every business leader dreams of building a team of A-players—but what happens when your top performer can’t seem to collaborate with the rest of the team? When one standout employee clashes with others, it doesn’t just create tension—it can disrupt workflow, derail morale, and impact your entire company culture. And while high performers often drive results, the real question becomes: at what cost? So how do we handle this dilemma? Should we keep the rainmaker and risk losing loyal, dependable team members? Or is there a way to address the conflict without compromising the health of the organization? In this episode, I revisit a conversation I had with the CEO of MicroFamous and producer of this podcast, Matt Johnson.  We unpack how to navigate employee conflict—especially when one person is operating on a completely different level. We’ll explore how to spot the warning signs, what to consider before taking action, and how to make decisions that serve your business in the long run. You’ll also learn: Questions to ask when faced with a disconnected team Who to keep on our teams (and who to let go) How to tell when an A-player is more trouble than good    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association. 

A shift in leadership often brings a shift in economic direction, and with that, a wave of uncertainty for business leaders. Recent changes in trade policy have sparked a great deal of conversation (and concern) around tariffs, trade imbalances, and global supply chains. But what we’re seeing now isn’t the final chapter—it’s part of a broader strategy to reshape the future of international trade and industrial development in the U.S. The goals are ambitious: addressing the national debt, correcting long-standing trade deficits, bringing key industries back onshore, and rethinking the rules of global commerce. While the path forward may seem unpredictable, there is a long-term vision driving these moves. The U.S. has long relied on the free market to guide economic outcomes, but certain challenges, like national security and the health of strategic industries, require more than market forces alone. Trade, especially when it intersects with geopolitical and security interests, demands a more hands-on approach. So, what does this mean for today’s financial leaders? How should CFOs be preparing for the ripple effects of tariffs and other trade measures? In this episode of the podcast, I sit down with Dr. Steve Horan, Former Managing Director of the prestigious CFA Institute and Finance Professor at UNC-Wilmington, to explore the broader implications of evolving trade policy. We talk about the big picture—debt reduction, onshoring trends, and how leaders can position their organizations for success in this dynamic environment. In this episode, you’ll learn: The least painful path to reducing the national debt Are tariffs a tax or a tool? Will tariffs be an effective trade negotiation lever What’s really driving interest rates The biggest concern for CFOs right now (hint: it’s not what you think)   Guest Bio Dr. Steve Horan is an Associate Professor of Finance at UNC Wilmington. Throughout his 30 years in the industry, Steve has leveraged his experience as a practitioner, educator and thought leader to engage the investment management profession on key industry issues. Steve’s distinct blend of academic and professional experience has given him a strong strategic sense, and the ability to apply a rigorous analytical framework to any situation. He strives to stay current in his knowledge and progressive in his thinking. Steve has written and co-written numerous articles and books, received several industry awards, and enjoyed a spell as an Financial Times columnist. He continues to provide media commentary, cited in publications from The Wall Street Journal to The New York Times to the South China Morning Post. Steve believes that an industry composed of competent and ethical practitioners is a necessary ingredient to build an investment profession that protects investors and ultimately contributes to a better society. Connect with Steve on LinkedIn.  About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.      Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

Once again, the aviation industry is in the spotlight, but this time for all the wrong reasons. With the recent accidents and mishaps, safety management systems have become a major topic in mainstream discussions.  The problem is, those conversations often turn into a rush to judgment, throwing around blame, prematurely pointing fingers, and ignoring the most important thing - the data.  This doesn’t help anyone at all.  What the industry does in the aftermath of an accident is critical. Instead of rushing to conclusions, we have to let the investigations play out and let the data come in so we know what actually happened. When we wait for data, we often discover that the system does work or we’ll uncover learnings we can use to get better.  What’s the right way to react to a mishap? Do we need more state sponsored safety mechanisms?  In this episode, Bob Waltz returns for an insightful conversation. Bob is now the VP of Flight Operations at Surf Air Mobility, and he shares what the aviation industry should be doing in the aftermath of recent unfortunate events.    You’ll also learn: How to avoid letting a sense of complacency can creep in The value of a system safety approach  The rule every aviation safety officer must follow If AI can help the human be a better operator    Guest Bio Bob Waltz is the VP of Flight Operations at Surf Air Mobility. As an award-winning and industry-recognized executive operational leader in the aviation industry, Bob has the experience in Fortune 500 global businesses and proven performance managing operational budgets of up to $3.5B and capital expense budgets of up to $500M. He is honored to serve as the Part 119 Director of Operations and Senior Director of Flight Operations at Sun Country Airlines, responsible for the stewardship of the Pilot group and the entire Flight Operations team. Additionally, Bob consults worldwide on Safety Management Systems and serves as an industry research lead as part of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University's Boeing Center for Aviation and Aerospace Safety. As an ERAU Adjunct Professor, he leads courses in aviation safety, airline management, and emergency response at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional development levels.  For more information, head to https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-waltz-1829a51b/.  About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!