The NAFI Professional Development Program Course Release

For immediate release July 26, 2018 – Oshkosh, WI 

The National Association of Flight Instructors today announced the release of the first five courses available to members through the NAFI Professional Development Program (PDP). These courses represent the first of a 40-hour curriculum leading to a PDP certificate. Research indicates this certification will add value to any flight instructor’s portfolio of accomplishments; in particular, demonstrating a strong commitment to the value of continuing education specifically designed by flight and for flight instructors. This first series of courses cover areas such as teaching methods, business communication strategies, leadership development and risk management all taught by leading subject matter experts.

Bob Meder, chairman said “Releasing this first set of courses brings to fruition a long term goal of mine and the association overall to offer real, tangible learning to NAFI members.” He added, “NAFI Director of Program Development, John Niehaus, has done an outstanding job of coordinating and encouraging NAFI member volunteers to develop and provide invaluable content to NAFI members.”

Paul Preidecker, NAFI board member coordinating the PDP at the board level stated, “It’s a privilege to participate on the ground-floor of this important program. Flight instructors have long needed access to education programs targeting key areas of teaching flight. Partnering in the many hours of steadfast commitment by the staff and volunteers in developing this program is a true privilege.”

The second annual NAFI Professional Development Center (PDC) at AirVenture offers public recognition of the association’s commitment to excellent educational programs with this year’s series of 23 presentations streaming live via FAASTeamTV. NAFI president Rick Todd, who spearheaded the PDC introduction in 2017 said “I have great pride in the work we’ve done here at NAFI to make this important initiative available to all CFIs and pilots both live and streaming online.” He added, “We’re also very thankful to Precision Flight Controls for placing their DCE Max flight simulator in the PDC so we can offer challenging scenario-based training to flight instructors.”

For NAFI members, another important program in development will offer members an innovative means of recruiting and serving potential students and clients. This member program provides a comprehensive means to provide excellent service including scheduling, payment processing and efficient communication options to their students. It will become available to members later in the year.