With pilot demand still surging and college alternatives gaining traction, professional flight training has quietly become one of the highest-upside career paths in America as people are rethinking what a “good career” looks like. Joining me today to discuss this is Patrick Arnzen, CEO of Thrust Flight Academy. Patrick is a former airline pilot, and designated pilot examiner (DPE) since 2012. Patrick has built and run several aviation businesses over the course of his career and wants to share his passion and knowledge of aviation with you.
We Discuss:
What a “good career” looks like?
A direct line to a respected, high-paying career
No four-year degree required
A clear sense of purpose, structure, and progression
As traditional college becomes more expensive and less reliable, more young adults and career changers are seeking careers that offer structure, fulfillment, and real upward mobility.
How aviation became one of the most respected, blue-collar-meets-white-collar (grey collar) jobs that doesn’t require a college degree.
What draws people in: from 19-year-olds fresh out of high school, to HVAC techs in their 50s, and how aviation gives them a sense of identity and momentum
Why success in flight training has less to do with raw talent, and more to do with mindset, consistency, and grit.
