When Mistakes Happen: The Flight Instructor's Response

Presenter: Erica Gilbert

Host: Bob Meder

Description

Student pilots make mistakes. Instructors have the responsibility to allow students the opportunity to make mistakes. In fact, doing things incorrectly is the only way a student can learn. Our response when things aren't perfect is a huge contributor to student success. Erica Gilbert will talk about how to develop an environment where students are given opportunities to make mistakes, while also holding them to high standards of safety and performance.

Presenter Bio

Erica Gilbert has a Bachelor of Science in Aviation from Eastern Kentucky University with a minor in social intelligence and leadership. She is assistant chief instructor at Wings Flight Training, a part 141 school where her role focuses on regulatory compliance and staff CFI mentoring. She independently instructs owner-pilots to get the best use out of their aircraft. Her YouTube channel Aerosafe provides weather analysis for general aviation pilots. This free resource teaches them how to avoid unnecessary weather-related accidents and incidents.

Erica also flies a TBM under Part 91 operations. Her focus is a learner-centered style of teaching with comprehensive, clear, and concise instruction that helps learners reach their goals. Professionally, she advocates for mentorship and community building, as demonstrated by her service as president of EKU's chapter of Women in Aviation, International during her tenure as a student.

Host Bio

Robert “Bob” Meder earned his CFI in 2006 and has since added single-engine and multi-engine instrument certificates. Recently retired from a 40+ year railroad career, he worked with the FAA on drone regulations while continuing to instruct. With 6,000+ hours of dual instruction, Bob specializes in training new flight instructors, emphasizing risk management and critical thinking.

A FAASTeam Lead Rep, he was named District and Regional Flight Instructor of the Year in 2009 and 2010. After nearly a decade as NAFI Chair, Bob now serves as Chair Emeritus.

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