Episode
Live from AeroSummit 2026 – Part 1: Your Mind is the Cockpit
- Podcast
- The Future in Flight Podcast
- Published
- Jun 24, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2946
- Processing state
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Summary
Summary In the first installment of our special three-part Live from AeroSummit 2026 series, host Shawn Staerker sits down with three aviation leaders who are tackling one of the most overlooked aspects of flight training and pilot development: the human element. Former A-10 pilot and mental performance coach Tammy Barlette explains why emotions, confidence, and self-awareness are critical aviation skills that deserve as much attention as stick-and-rudder proficiency. F-15E pilot, airline captain, and human factors expert Brandon Williams explores the power of debrief culture and how understanding human factors can dramatically improve safety, performance, and decision-making. Finally, Fly Orca founder and flight test engineer Adriana Barrigan shares how student pilots can reduce wasted time and money in training by taking ownership of the learning process and leveraging data-driven tools to improve efficiency. Though their backgrounds differ, all three guests arrive at the same conclusion: better pilots start with better self-awareness, better reflection, and better habits. Key Points Former A-10 pilot Tammy Barlette discusses the role of mental performance training in aviation. Why emotions can serve as an "early warning radar" for pilots. The importance of self-awareness, confidence, and recovering from mistakes. How military-style debriefing creates measurable performance improvements. Brandon Williams explains human factors and why pilots make mistakes. The concept of "Hack the Clock" as a tool to overcome startle response and regain composure. Why debrief culture remains underutilized in general aviation flight training. Adriana Barrigan shares how Fly Orca helps student pilots identify inefficiencies and reduce training costs. The average student pilot may waste…