ASOG Article of the Month | January 2023
ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan
If you remember the phrase "We don't need any stinking badges," it highlights that there's no need to show all your training and experience because somehow it's apparent. However, the reality is it's not apparent to others.
Besides obtaining "stinking badges," the effort of taking courses or going through the process of getting a piece of paper also strengthens your professional "Knowledge Bucket." Without a doubt, certifications, permits, licenses, etc., make a difference in obtaining a job or moving up the career ladder, but they also make you smarter.
In the case of the Airborne Sensor Operators, there are a lot of "badges" an ASO can obtain to show they're a cut above the rest, e.g., GIS certs. TFO courses, OEM equipment training, etc. In my opinion, with a focus on airmanship, I recommend three "badges" for civil non-rated aircrew members.
No. 1 - Flight Physical: Even though most countries and companies don't require a flight physical for non-rated aviators, obtaining a basic class flight medical exam is good for these three reasons:
- It lets "You" know if you're healthy to fly, i.e., are you going to have physical or mental problems in a flying environment?
- It lets your fellow aircrew members know you're fit to fly. Knowing the status of my fellow crewmates helps with making better decisions, i.e., especially in an Emergency Procedure.
- It lets your current or future employer know you are physically and mentally fit for the job. Plus, you'll have the upper hand over many other candidates because many of them will have the attitude of "We don't need any stinking badges."
No. 2 - Altitude Chamber – Again, outside many militaries, it's generally not a requirement for both rated and non-rated aircrew members. However, going through an Altitude Chamber physiological training course will benefit you for two reasons:
- It lets "You" know what it feels like to be in a non-oxygen environment, i.e., above 10,000 feet. Knowing your body signs that you're in a state of hypoxia could save your life and others.
- Again, it lets your current or future employer know you have a professional attitude regarding flying. Plus, you're stretching yourself professionally to learn something new.
No. 3 - Radiotelephone Operators Permit – Like the previous two recommendations, obtaining a radiotelephone Operator Permit is a hit & miss requirement based on what country you live in or operate. However, getting a radio operator permit, certificate, or license (plus learning about aviation communication procedures) will benefit you for these three reasons:
- Going through the process of learning how to talk on the radio and understanding the world of ATC communications will again increase your professional knowledge and expand your capabilities.
- If your mother tongue is not English, going through the process will help you with your level of Aviation English competency.
- Suppose you're planning to fly as an ASO beyond your specific country boundaries, i.e., internationally. In that case, you might be required to have a license in other countries if you plan to operate radios.
- You'll be a major asset in the cockpit if you have this permit and the skill of communicating on radios, i.e., especially on two-person crews, i.e., one pilot and one ASO.
- Again, Again, it lets your current or future employer know you have a professional attitude regarding flying. Plus, you're stretching yourself professionally to learn something new.
So, with that said! Is your professional elevator pitch "We don't need any stinking badges!" or is it "I have alot of badges!"
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