No U-Turn

Mandy Nelson, Director of Business Development at The Bristow Group, joins us to share her story and journey in aviation. Our discussion includes:Catch-up and early Beginnings for Mandy.The transition to electric and hybrid aircraft & Bristow Group's plans .Aviation safety, innovation, and regulation.Diversity and inclusion in aviation industry.The slow progress of urban air mobility, global expansion, and Utah's potential as a hub for AAM operations.Engaging younger generation in aviation through early exposure and initiatives.Using drones for pilot shortage solution, with a focus on Disney and Epcot Center.2024 Olympics, the amazing athletes and their achievements.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Katherine Ayre, CEO at Cayres, joins us to share her story and journey. Our discussion includes:Advanced air mobility and aviation law.Municipal aviation law and its focus on community aviation.Law school, aviation, and human rights.Incorporating advanced air mobility into urban planning, with a focus on Canada.Air mobility, starting with vulnerable communities.Using drones to deliver goods to remote communities, with a focus on addressing food insecurity and healthcare needs.Aviation, privilege, and inclusion.Air travel, generational trauma, and the importance of STEM education.Preventing human trafficking through transportation regulations.Sustainable aviation fuel, hydrogen, and mental health.Vulnerability as strength in leadership and communication.Fun Question: Superstitions, hockey, and sports.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

It's just the three of us, and we get into some heavy stuff:Mental health awareness, our cultures and struggles  Parenting, stress release, and cultural dynamics. Mental health struggles and experiences with therapy Trauma, and healing.Seeking help in the workplace. The importance of being genuine and kind in professional settings. Addiction, Suicide, and support systems. Health and wellness in the workplace, and demonstrating leadership Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Patti Harburg-Petrich, Vice President at Mott McDonald, joins us to share her story and journey:Start with a few sports updates, industry happenings, and welcome our guest, Patti.Patti shares her story and career in aviation, and discusses her experiences in engineering and airport design.Growth as a leader, leadership styles, and helping others.The importance of communication, and teamwork in the workplace.Mentors, ACE academy, career challenges, and diversity in the aviation industry.Sustainable aviation, advanced air mobility, new entrants, related challenges and obstacles to overcome.Streamlining aviation processes, including zoning and noise considerationsAirport noise, community engagement, and innovation in aviation.Our top travel destinations and cultural experiences.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Cynthia Guidry, Director of Long Beach Airport , joins us this week to chat about her journey in aviation.Episode 50! A milestone for the No U-Turn Crew! How Cynthia got started and her storyEngineering, aviation, and airports Long Beach, LAX, and the importance of learning from mentorsThe importance of speaking up about diversityHow do you balance stress and stressors? The importance of connecting with the youthLeadership is about inspiration and visionChanges in the airport travel experienceBiggest event of the aviation industryWhat would you tell yourself at 16…Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Leah Whitfield, President of the Aviation Planning Group, joins us this week to share her story.Leah shares her journey from a farm in Kentucky to becoming a meteorologist and air traffic controller, with education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an internship in weather forecasting for shuttle launches.The transition to air traffic control was driven by Leah's interest in aviation, math, and problem-solving, with radar classes being particularly engaging, and an age cutoff for training set at 31.Leah, as a young airport manager, emphasized the importance of political acumen in managing a small airport, where she gained diverse skills from handling projects to working with consultants.The gender dynamics in aviation education and the industry were discussed, highlighting the low ratio of women in engineering at Embry-Riddle and the importance of mentorship for young female professionals.We explored aviation innovations, such as electric and hybrid-electric aircraft, drone delivery infrastructure, and improving passenger experiences, with the team sharing their airport preferences and pet peeves.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

We welcome back a previous guest, Clint Harper, and dive into vertiport infrastructure:The importance of a network of vertiports in urban areas is highlighted, with a need for more research on user profiles and a focus on emergency response use cases.Infrastructure delays in LA are discussed, with concerns about their impact on electric vehicle adoption and the need for coordination with local grid infrastructure.The federal regulatory framework for vertiports is outlined, with a focus on community engagement and the lack of standardized aviation safety risk evaluation.Near-term and long-term strategies for data storage and regulation are considered, with a discussion on federal vs local jurisdiction in drone sighting regulations.The importance of sustainability in the aviation industry is emphasized, with a focus on airport infrastructure development, electric vehicles, and autonomous transportation integration into urban planning.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

In our first chat of the new year, we discuss:A little news and updates from us Airline safety, evacuation procedures, and Boeing's recent issues.Aviation safety and supply chain issues.Prioritizing profit over safety and quality in various industries.Balancing profitability and sustainability in the aviation industry.Gen Z's work ethic and attention to detail.Balancing remote work and in-person interactions for effective learning and growth.Generational differences in communication styles.Education, technology, and future workforce.D,E,&I in tech, aviation, and amongst menMental health and resilience among men.Travel plans and milestone birthdays.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Our last chat for 2023! In this epsiode, we discuss:The crew reflects on the past year Holiday movies and AAM progress and milestones in 2023. Electric aircraft development win by Joby, Beta and others…Electric and hybrid aircraft developmentsFAA progress in regulating drone technologyAutonomous aviation, public perception and acceptance, RAM vs UAMPilot training requirements for air taxisExciting career paths in aviation and AAM.AI, pilot shortage, and industry diversityHappy New Year!! Thank you for your support, feedback, and love! Until next time, keep it on the centerline! 

Join us this week for a chat Clint Harper! We cover:The Voice of the Show is back, U2 & the SwiftiesRugby world cup, South Africa win!, refereeing, and the use technology in sportsClint Harper!, his story, struggles of being a young adult, wake up calls, and personal growthHis military service in the USAF, being a firefighter, aircraft maintenance, and working on the C130-H  How his service helped develop leadership skills, life as an outsider, cultural identity, and navigating the challenges he facedThe struggles and loss of identity after service and training to be a leaderLove for hockey, identifying as a veteran and related stigma, PTSD and finding help, and making it back to school Why he left aviation, the importance of urban planning, and having a social impactComing back to aviation, changing the industry from within and opportunities for veterans  The lack of recognition for military experience in aviation and the potential for veterans to help advance aviation and mobility, the importance of community The electrification of aviation and airports and bringing destinations closerThe development of AAM in rural/regional areas, and safety concerns Where do we put vertiports and how do we update our systems New leadership at the FAA and resource challenges, mental health concerns, land availability and gentrification Transportation planning and equity, and intergenerational planningFatherhood, being a girl dad, and gender equalityRaising strong girls in male-dominated fields, diversity and inclusionNative American history and the value of native cultures to solve today's problemsIgnorance and cultural misunderstandings. Pet peeves and humor in everyday life.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week for a chat with Jeremy "Jam" Hartley from the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Jam making!Career in Aviation and a Move to the UKHealthcare applications for AAM Organ transportation and a Career PivotThe challenges of pursuing higher education as an adult with family responsibilitiesAviation policy development and making history for VertiportsLeading countries in advanced air mobility technology developmentSafety regulations for autonomous aircraft in North CarolinaImportance of risk assessment, safety management, and transparency in the vertiport industryThe potential impact of noise to the integrations of AAM operations in urban areasThe need for community engagement, and expanded communicationRugby World Cup predictions and allegiancesUntil next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week for our chat with Thariq Kara, CEO of Nuborders and Co-founder of Athstat. In this episode, we discuss: Quick hits on FAA reauthorization and AAM News Getting to know TK  Growing up in Zimbabwe, moving to the US, and overcoming challenges.  University experience and career path.  Career journey and the Florida Tech ConnectionsCareer transition from government to private sector, with insights on entrepreneurship and data analytics.Leadership, entrepreneurship, and sports analytics.Sports analytics and growth strategies.AI and data analytics in various industries.Paying it Forward and Engaging Talent in AfricaParenting, emotional intelligence, and personal growth.Immigration, entrepreneurship, and family history in Zimbabwe.Travel experiences and rugby predictions.Favorite sports teams and players, including cricket.Cricket and car restoration.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week for an episode recorded earlier this summer with Dan Sloat, CEO of Volatus Infrastructure and President and Founder of AAM Institute. In this episode, we discuss:Quick updates on the AAM industry and an initial study on security considerations of UAM operationsAn aviation STEM event with 10 middle school kids.Weather workshop that will discuss types of weather sensors & products needed for AAMLaunch of the Tech Demonstrator by Electra AeroWho is Dan the man?His journey into aviation, USAF, and into AAMHi family history, and the highs and lows of his experience in the militaryThe importance of being able to make meaningful contributions and desire to become an attorneyLife in Oklahoma, Boston, and the birth of the AAM InstituteThe legal impacts of drones, FAA struggles, and the bigger vision for AAMThe importance of diversity and equity in aviationHow can we increase diversity of our workforceOur favorite super heroesUntil next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week for an episode recorded last month with Laura Chace, President and CEO of Intelligent Transportation Society (ITS) of America.In this episode, we discuss:Ravi's lack of seasonal awarenessAmazing women and leaders in the industryWho is Laura Chace?Early days in the DC political world and U.S. telecomWhy Laura joined ITS America in 2015Deciding to return to the workforce and the difference between a job and a careerMentors and colleagues can help with confidenceThe fear and anxiety of returning to the workforcePaying it forward to the next generationMentoring women in the transportation industryAdvice for young women thinking about coming back into the workforceBringing younger people into meetings when appropriateExpectations young women should haveA woman's career path doesn't match the corporate trackThe decade of culture shockChief household officer 24/7 on callWomen who have been mothers are the best managersThe importance of taking on challengesUntil next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week for an episode recorded earlier this spring during Women's International History Month with Tina Millan, Aviation Market Director for TRC Companies. In this episode, we discuss:Tina's unique path to aviationInternational airport experienceA unique experience across the industry Tina's Cuban heritage and what it means to herGrowing up in Miami as a CubanHer initial education plansHer shift in careers starting at Miami International and great advice she gained from that experience being one of “Jose's Kids”TRC Companies and key services they provide Prioritizing decarbonization efforts at airportsPlans for the upcoming summerFun question about food! We can easily do another episode with Tina! Fantastic leader who we are honored to have on the show!

Join us this week with a special guest from beautiful San Diego, Kate McCauely!We discuss:- Chris ranting about banking,- Kate's story and background,- Growing up in Philly,- Investing in Community,- Rowing D1 in Knoxville TN,- Working in Baltimore,- Moving to the West Coast,- UAS Integration Pilot Program,- DEI in Aviation,- and borrowing the Earth from future generations.Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week for an episode of updates! This week the three of us discuss:-The infamous balloon recently shot down (and some other balloons),-Events and panels we have been and will be involved in,-AeroX, a nonprofit dedicated to furthering the AAM industry,-Organizations that are making important strides in improving minority inclusivity in aviation,-The eVTOL and AAM current market,-future plans for No U-Turn,-Ravi's snowboarding skills, and-Some personal accomplishments and milestones we are currently working towards!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!https://www.amac-org.comhttps://www.ecsu.edu/aviation/programsofstudy.html

This week Ravi and Chris are dropping into your feed with a short episode to check in and bring you some updates! They discuss:-Chris' recent trip to Hawaii and the aviation issues conference he attended while there,-The Southwest Airlines fiasco,-The recent nationwide ground stop issued by the FAA,-The advancement, or lack there of, in the AAM industry,-The challenges of building Vertiports,-Collaborations between HBCUs and the FAA,-The difficulties of navigating life and a career, and-Our go to books!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This week we are joined by Matthew Land, Public Policy & Government Relations at Eve Air Mobility.  We discuss:-The World Cup,-Matthew's story and background,-How he practically became a lobbyist overnight,-What he does as a lobbyist for Advanced Air Mobility,-How his real estate background has helped him as a lobbyist,-How he collaborates with others to advance policy for AAM,-Some things that he feels Aviation needs to work on,-His thoughts on where we stand as it pertains to diversity and inclusion in aviation and the importance of fostering an inclusive work environment,-His advice for young adults who are looking for a diverse and inclusive company,-How Eve is taking the initiative to get kids exposed to opportunities earlier in life,-His favorite Florida State football player, and-The professional sports team we would play on!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This week we are joined by Naveed Iqbal, CEO of Dolr, a platform created to help students pay off college loans. Join us this week as we discuss:-Current news,-What it was like to grow up in Tanzania,-His doctorate and the importance of wisely choosing mentors,-His dissertation on Chaos theory,-The importance of students knowing the options out there to make college more affordable,-How Dolr works,-How the pandemic affected the cost of college,-His time in Ohio, and-What we would write a book about and what movie we would cameo in!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Hello listeners! We are sure you are getting just as excited as us for some Thanksgiving turkey! This week we decided to drop an episode in your feed of just us to get you all caught up on aviation news and happenings.  This week we discuss:-Twitter and how Elon has stepped into the role of CEO,-Archer's new “Midnight” AAM model,-Efforts, or lack of, to create diversity in the AAM space, the lack of diverse talent in the AAM space, and how to get to the root of the issue,-The Dallas air show crash,-The new Top Gun movie,-US parts in a drone that Iran sold to Russia,-How we're ending our years,-and our favorite Christmas movie!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This week we are joined by Charlie Kowalczyk, Domestic Sales & Operations Manager at AtlasIED.  We discuss:-Current Aviation news including Kittyhawk, Wisk,and the AAM Bill,-The many things Charlie does as it pertains to the airport and the public, specifically their announcement technology called “Look Hear” (https://www.atlasied.com/lookhear),-TSA requirements for announcements,-The importance of having well trained staff and proper zoning to help in the event of an emergency,-How data and AI will drive the future of airport layouts and the traveler experience,-The importance of predictability when traveling,-What got Charlie into the aviation industry,-The importance of family, and-Our favorite airports!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This week we are joined by Diana Siegel, Chief Financial Officer at Electra. We discuss:-Her many travels and how she began her career in Advanced Air Mobility,-How she projects eVTOLS and eSTOLS into the airspace,-The infrastructure footprint for her aircraft at Electra,-How her childhood experiences drove her fascination with aviation,-Challenges she has faced in her career and how she overcame them, -The ways she feels she has made an impact on others and the importance of role models,-Some things she has seen while traveling that she thinks the US should adopt,-The lack of workforce and diversity within the aviation industry and how we can change that,-and our favorite comfort foods!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!P.S. Please excuse our slight audio issues this week, we had some issues with our mics!

We had to upload a new episode due to a technical error with the previous one. If you downloaded the last Ep. 31, please enjoy this one instead!This week we are joined by power couple Purnima Thakre and Zach Braiker, COO AND CEO of Refine and Focus. Join us as we discuss:- The importance of community to them and in their business,- Both of their backgrounds and how they entered the innovation industry,- The importance of flexibility in order to succeed and how and why they challenge the norm when addressing problems within their industry,-  A real life example of how beneficial it is to think outside of the box to solve problems,- The characteristics of a good leader,- How Zach's childhood experiences has manifested in driving his passion for community within their business,- How their business was affected during Covid and some new hobbies they took up,- Their own podcast,- How to influence the next generation and- Our favorite innovations and entertainment!Until next time, keep it in the center line!

Hello listeners! We're back after summer, travel, and some technical difficulties kept us away. Have no fear! We are back and ready to release more episodes! For our return, we interviewed Darnell Wagstaffe, Senior Vice President, FAA Programs, Parsons Corporation. You'll understand why he is a favorite of so many after listening to this episode!This episode we discuss:-His unique background,-His experience at Georgetown prep in high school and the lasting impressions it made,-His mom's dream of Dr. Darnell Wagstaffe! -Why he decided to pursue electrical engineering in college (what was that other certification called?)-Why he chose the University of Maryland,-The importance of his family,-His dad being a top notch athlete,-His career path and the opportunities he has had,-The mentors he had and how they helped him,-His thoughts on giving back to the community and how Parsons facilitates this,-His take on why it's important to work together,-and much more!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This week we have the privilege of interviewing one of our own, Chris Fernando!  Join us this week as we discuss:-Recent aviation news,-Chris and Basil's recent trip to Ohio,-How Chris's family background in aviation influenced his interest in the aviation world,-A few reasons he decided not to be a pilot,-What it was like for him to move to America,-Where Chris went to school,-Some of his jobs after school,-A personal circumstance that made him feel like he needed a reset,-The difficulties Chris faced with immigration,-Some big projects Chris has led,-and our favorite Christmas albums!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This episode we have the priveledge of interviewing Dawn Zoldi, the CEO of P3 Tech Consulting. In this episode we discuss:-how Dawn got into the aviation industry,-her time in the Air Force and what it's like to be a JAG (Judge Advocate General Core), -how she started her own company, P3 Tech, and what it's all about,-how she tracks metrics of disparity when it comes to race and gender within the aviation world,-a co-located event coming up at AUVSI Xponential as well as her own personal discount code,-her own podcast: Dawn of Drones,-her work for Forbes,-the colleges she teaches at,-her advice for women and the next generation entering into the aviation industry,-the book she just finished,-and the TV shows we're watching these days!Until next time, keep it on the centerline

Join us this week as we interview Greg Dyer, Aviation and Airspace Services Director at Jviation.  We discuss:-current news such as the war in Ukraine and drone usage there, -the market shortage of pilots,-national women's day,-how Greg decided to enter the aviation industry,-his career at the FAA and now at Jviation,-how Greg and Chris met,-how his FAA experience has helped shape his view of the industry, how it's run, and how he interacts with his clients,-the importance of flexibility and diversity in thought in the aviation industry,-his wildest moment as an air traffic controller,-his hobbies outside of aviation,-the importance of encouraging people to do what they are passionate about,-and who would play us if a movie was being made about us!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this episode as we interview Miquel Ros, International Journalist and Consultant. Miquel is a consultant and writer. Founder of the Allplane.tv, a site and podcast about the aviation industry with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. He is also a regular contributor to several major international media outlets, writing about aviation and travel for the likes of CNN and The Points Guy.  In this episode we discuss:-The olympics,-Miquel's background and how he got into aviation,-His collaboration with The Points Guy blog and CNN,-What the spice jet is and some recent news around it,-The global travel market and how willing people are to travel with current restrictions,-The Chinese market,-What first got him into aviation and what aspect of the aviation industry he first focused on,-His podcast, All Plane, and his view of the UAM/AAM industry,-How non airline entities and individuals will assimilate into and embrace the airspace industry,-Key challenges to the airline industry that could surface post-Covid,-Getting the next generation into the airline industry, and-Something on our bucket list for 2022!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

This week we switch it up a bit and bring to you an episode of just us. Join us as we get caught up on recent aviation news including: -AeroX updates,-A route to becoming a drone pilot,-The future of the aviation world,-The issues with widespread 5G,-Boeing's 450 million dollar investment into Wisk Aero and why they have been in the news lately,-Amazon's aircraft advancements,-The frustrations that accompany getting aircraft certified,-Why Joby's stock took a big hit recently,-Some advancements in changing aviation verbiage to more gender neutral language, and-Our choice of sport that we would put in the Winter Olympics!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week as we kick off 2022 interviewing Amy Imamura, Director of Community Relations at Los Angeles World Airports. We discuss:-Being Hapa Haole-How Amy's parents sparked her interest in Aviation,-Her unique background and path toward aviation,-Her 5-mile radius and how she has witnessed LA's transformation firsthand,-Making an impact in her role at LAX-The importance of the customer service experience while at an airport,-How LAX is committed to the community,-What's ahead for Amy and her team,-and our top three walk up songs!Until next time, keep it on the center line!

Join us this week as we interview (for the second time- more on that later) Fin Bonset, Director of Aviation Services at VHB.  During the interview we discuss:-How Fin entered the aviation industry,-His many travels growing up,-What he studied and his jobs after college,-His advice for students who are looking for their first job,-Why he started his own company and what it was,-Why sustainability starts with the individual,-The importance of educating others about the variety of jobs within the aviation industry,-How to help expose youth to aviation opportunities,-The many leadership positions Fin serves in,-our favorite sports to watch,-and how #bonset evolved!Until next time, keep it on the center line!

Join us this week as we interview our guest, Hana Creger, the Senior Program Manager of Climate Equity at The Greenlining Institute.  In this episode we discuss:-Her background and the documentary that sparked her interest in climate change,-How she entered the transportation industry as it pertains to climate change,-The barriers to electric vehicles for the masses,-What The Greenlining Institute is and what it does,-How the pandemic has brought to light equity issues and pushed forward equity efforts,-How to plan for disaster and build back equitable transportation infrastructure,-How equitable transportation benefits healthcare,-What she likes to do in and around San Francisco,-and our number one place that we would like to travel to outside of the US and out top 3 places we have traveled to!See you next time!

Join us this week as we interview our guest, Api Appulingam, the Deputy Director of Aviation Capital Development at the City of Philadelphia's Division of Aviation. This episode we discuss:-Recent industry news to kick things off-Api's journey to her current role -How she entered the aviation industry-Her move from Malaysia to the US -The impact she is making in advancing women in aviation,-Challenges she had to navigate and overcome as a woman in the aviation industry,-The importance of equality in the workplace and some ways to advocate for and achieve it,-Her recent role with the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) leading the national DE&I Committee and her role as President-Elect at the Philadelphia Chapter of Women in Transportation Seminar (WTS)-Upcoming projects at PHL and recent projects at PNE and-Our favorite TV shows and movies from the 90s!See you next time!

Join us this week as we interview Ramone Hemphill, Senior Systems Engineer at Collins Aerospace and Founder of The 99th Squadron.  This week we:- Discuss where Ramone's aviation interest started and his journey since,- The importance of kids understanding what jobs really entail,- How Ramone is involved in helping to educate kids on becoming a pilot,- Ramone's many influences that helped get him to where he is today,- His founding of the 99th Squadron and all it does,- And our favorite College traditions!See you next time!

Join us this week on the No U-Turn Podcast as we:Interview Ernest Huffman and how he entered the aviation industry,the importance of building a network, asking for help when you're young, and that not knowing things does not mean you're failing,how Ernest's background and challenges have helped him secure and thrive in his current role,what his current role as the program manager for aviation planning and education for the North Central Council of Governments entails,Ernest's involvement as one of the founding members of the Tuskeegee Nex program,Ernest's future endeavors,And our favorite video games!Until next time, keep it on the centerline!

Join us this week as we discuss:the infrastructure bill,an upcoming conference,the JetBlue and Allegiant alliance,UAM for all,Basil's story and how it has led him to where he is today,and our favorite comedians!Thanks so much for listening and we will talk to you next time!

We are so excited to be back with the first episode of the second season of No U-Turn!  Join us this week as we:Catch up on what we've been up to since our last recording on June 8th,AAM advances including Joby going public and drones delivering Covid-19 vaccines,Some future plans for the season,The conferences we attended and plan to in the near future, Pay tribute to 9/11 and share our personal memories of that day,Security concerns for EVTOLS,Our favorite airline,The scholarship we will be offering,And what we're watching now!We hope you enjoy the first episode of season 2 and, as always, keep it on the centerline!

No U-Turn listeners- thank YOU for a wonderful, fun, and inspiring first season of the No U-Turn Podcast!  Join us this week as we wrap up season 1 by:Reflecting on these past 16 episodes and the incredible guests we have hosted,Discussing news updates,Sharing some future plans and focuses for season 2,Announcing a course we will be delivering to middle and high school students the week of June 21st with ACE academy,Laughing at the fact that Ravi has 150 drones in his home right now,Looking forward to our non-profit and scholarship initiatives,Sharing the shows we're watching and our plans coming up!Thank you again for a great season! As always, until next time keep it on the centerline!

We have an exciting episode this week to share with you!  We are joined by Greg Reverdiau, Co-founder and Lead Instructor of Pilot Institute.Join us this week as we discuss:The pilot shortage, the hope for more diversity among pilots, and the new credit program US airlines are starting,How Greg entered the aviation world and who influenced him to enter the aviation industry,What inspired him to create the Pilot institute,How his family member’s involvement in aviation helped him to enter the aviation industry,His experience as an immigrant to the US and the challenges both he (and Chris) faced on their way to becoming permanent residents/citizens,How he started creating online courses and the evolution of his classes,His take on new policies and some FAA shortcomings,Some challenges faced when integrating new technology,What airline hiring looks like going forward,What we’re excited to do outdoors this summer!Vive La France, listeners!

This episode we are excited to interview Dr. Henry Liu, Professor at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan and the Director at CCAT (Center for Connected and Automated Transportation).  We take a break from our aviation focus and discuss surface autonomous vehicles.Join us as we discuss:How he got into the transportation industry and how his journey over the last 20 years has been including the challenges that have come with language barriers,How the mentors he had in his life helped him in his career and shaped him into the person he is today,The importance he sees in paying it forward,How he has used his experience in China to shape how he solves transportation issues in America,His two year leave of absence to go back to China and the business he started there,What we can expect from CCAT including safety measures for unmanned aircraft,His thoughts on the new infrastructure bill under the new administration and the importance of infrastructure support,How his projects consider those who have disabilities,Collaborations with other Universities,How autonomous vehicles will be environmentally friendly, And our favorite sport to watch!Talk to you next time!

This week we had the honor of interviewing Michelle Schwartz, the Chief Corporate Strategy & Affairs Officer at Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA).  You do not want to miss this information packed episode.  Join us as we discuss:how Michelle got into the transportation industry,her history in politics,how her mindset has helped her grow her career,the importance of understanding what’s important to others and using that knowledge to succeed,specific transportation issues she has helped resolve,being confident in your strengths,the challenges of being a woman in a male dominated industry and how she uses people who underestimate her abilities to her advantage,understanding how to negotiate from an early agethe lack of equity in the aviation world and how to introduce more women into the aviation and transportation industry,How LAWA is planning to inspire the up and coming generations,balancing work and play and taking time off,her passion for surfing,our favorite spots in DC,big things happening at LAX, andour favorite cheat foods!As always, keep it on the center line!

This week we had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Stuart Ginn, or, the real Doctor Drone!  Dr. Ginn is the Head and Neck Surgeon with WakeMed ENT as well as the Medical Director of Innovations at WakeMed Innovations and has worked closely with the aviation world AND the medical world.  We are excited to share his expertise with you this episode!Join us this week as we discuss:How he got into the aviation world through the medical world,His involvement in figuring out how to use drones to deliver blood samples,The facility, personel, and safety challenges he faced when leading the implementation of drones in the medical world,How drone innovation compares and fits in to innovation in the healthcare sector and all of the many technological and regulatory hoops he has had to jump through,Why risk is more accepted in the medical world verses the drone and aviation world and the difficulty in assessing certain aviation risks,His and Basil’s involvement in the first commercial drone based package delivery system in the county,How drones are used everyday at WakeMed,The issues that interfere with using drones at the hospital,The next wave of big drone technology and healthcare,Whether or not the autonomy of drones will kill job opportunities, specifically in the healthcare industry,How city planners can coordinate with healthcare to implement drone based technologies,How a focus on accessibility, equity, and diversity contributes to the success in implementing drone technology,Financing issues when moving forward with implementing these technologies,How to continue to empower the next generation to keep pushing forward in whatever their dreams are,The power of diversity in an industry,And our go to show/movie to lift our spirits!See you back here soon!

Join us this week for a very exciting episode as we had the honor of interviewing a personal friend, Glady Singh! Glady is the General Manager of Innovation & Federal Solutions at AkitaBox and is an inspiration to many. Join as we discuss:The Importance of diversity in the aviation and transportation industry and how she has overcome personal hurdles as a woman in this male dominated profession,Glady’s many involvements, degrees, and hobbies,How to break down and question the lack of diversity in this industry as well as why it is significantly more challenging for minorities to excel and succeed in the professional world,The need for widespread support of women and minorities in the aviation and transportation industry,How Glady implements her values and perspectives in her role at AkitaBox,Her leadership in flying drones over the campus of VA to identify plant species,Her role at AkitaBox and what we can look forward to from the company,The important role of disrupting, challenging, and questioning in order to bring about change for women and minorities,The new hobbies we each took up during this Pandemic! (Did they say wrasslin’?)We hope you enjoyed episode 10 of No U-Turn, we enjoyed getting to hear from Glady and all of her many experiences and we will talk to you again soon!

We are excited to be back with you all this week! Join us as we interview Justin Towles, senior policy advisor at Akin Gump.This week we discuss:new investments in eVTOL manufacturing,government's role in UAM implementation,the importance of airports leading the air taxi market,making UAM accessible to all as well as the importance of equity, justice, and environmental justice in making this happen,how the new administration will help address transportation equity issues,the importance of diversity in aviation,possible future transportation logistical issues,the surprising amount of individuals who are unaware of UAM advances,the role of agencies versus the roles of DOT, the public, and the industry in advancing UAM,advice for future generations and lessons learned, andif given the chance, would we go to the Moon or Mars?Thanks for listening!

Episode 8 - Ohio vs. North Carolina, which one is THE aviation state?Hello and Happy February! This episode we had the honor of talking with Fred Judson, Director at the Ohio UAS Center who has committed his UAM career to providing education, resources, and programs to the community concerning Drone use and integration.Join us as we discuss:International UAM advances and research taking place in Paris, the UK, and India,National UAM/UAS advances that will allow remote ID, flights over people, and night ops for UAS operations,drone crashes,the free resources Ohio Department of Transportation is providing to educate the community on safe drone use and to prepare individuals for the Part 107,how Fred became involved in the UAM/UAS world, the operations he has worked with such as Skyvision and Agility Prime, and the initiatives Ohio DOT is taking to advance UAM,Ohio DOT public outreach and how they are bridging the gap between rural and urban areas using drones,challenges Ohio DOT faces going forward,who holds the title of THE aviation state, NC or OH?what drew Fred to Ohio DOT and where he sees himself going,Spot Robots and Skydio drones,Ohio DOT’s involvement with Universities, andwhere we would travel if we could!Resources:learning.transportation.ohio.gov

Let’s kick off 2021 and let’s do it with an inspirational guest like Hasan Ikhrata of the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). Hear about what not only he feels his duty is to pay it forward to the next generation, but how he is pushing forward with a passionate and empathetic plan for the city of San Diego. We’re excited to see what Hasan and the SANDAG team will be planning and implementing for this amazing city. Join us for a very exciting episode as we discuss:Hasan’s background and story,SANDAG’s Big 5 Moves leading the city’s future of transportation,The importance of leading with a “paying it forward” thought process,News on the Apple Car, Amazon purchasing planes, and vaccine impacts to the aviation world,Ravi still stuck in his garage,What would these guys have done if they could press restart on their careers?!Thanks for joining and we’ll see you next time! Here’s to a resilient 2021!

Hello Listeners! We hope you are having a safe Holiday Season and looking forward to a Happier New Year. We are excited to be back and speaking to our very first guest on episode 6!Join us for a very exciting episode as we discuss:current UAM advances,how to and the importance of reaching future generations,how to collaborate as an industry,how STEM can educate younger generations,what it’s like to be a young woman in the UAM world,the importance of giving younger generations a chance to show what they are capable of,and our favorite holiday movies!Thanks for joining and we’ll see you next time!

Episode 5We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and we can’t believe how fast December is flying by. Join us for Episode 5 as we discuss:what we did for Thanksgiving (including Ravi’s seafood dressing),lawsuits pertaining to Drone interference and the dangers of flying drones near aircraft,new Covid updates,the return of Boeing 737 Max,using drones to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine,the benefits of the metro and possible changes to come,advances in Uber elevate and Joby Elevation or, in other words, flying cars,scalability and making this new technology accessible to everyone,and our first guest, Mariya Trabanovska!Stay safe and we’ll talk to you soon!

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our listeners, we hope you enjoy our Podcast as you travel (or don’t) this year. Join us this week as we discuss,our thanksgiving menus,our first cars and what we were listening to then, andthe pros and cons of switching to electric cars.We hope you travel safe, stay safe, and eat too much food this week! If you’re enjoying the podcast make sure to leave us a 5 star review and share with your friends and family.Until next time, keep it on the centerline.

Episode 3Hello listeners, we are so happy to be back with you all. We had to take a break last week because there was just so much going on and we needed a day to relax. We hope everyone is doing well. Okay let’s get started!Join us this week as we discuss:new propositions passed last week and how their impacts on aviation,urban air mobility,the benefits of electrical systems, transportation initiatives in Austin, Texas,drone delivery weight limits,instant food delivery with drones,and gritty, our next guest!See you all next week!