NAFI Mentor Magazine

NAFI Mentor is a bi-monthly magazine published specifically for flight instructors. Its editions are packed with articles covering the wide range of challenges in aviation education, from flying technique to business practices to professional development. Written by NAFI members for NAFI members, Mentor provides a unique aviation journalism perspective not found elsewhere. In addition, Mentor explores the changing universe of aviation, and was the first publication to report on the challenges and potential of drones. A selection of articles includes:

“What Are an Instructor’s Responsibilities? When to speak, when to stay silent” by Paul Preidecker in the January/February 2019 edition

“Creating a Mentorship Program – Developing future leaders” by Andy Guise in the January/February 2018 edition

“Emergency Landings – Responsible decision-making – fields or highways?” by Joe Clark in the September/October 2017 edition

“Failing Your Students by Not Flunking Them – Taking your gatekeeper role seriously” by Matthew Kent in the May/June 2017 edition

“Energy Management Principles – The key to short and soft field ops” by Michael J. Banner in the November/December 2016 edition

“Challenges Facing Aviation Educators – Pilot shortages, training costs, technology” by Jered Lease in the September/October 2015

The magazine also contains insightful columns by NAFI’s Board Chair Bob Meder. Another feature that regularly produces reader engagement is Mentor's "Feedback" section, which publishes letters to the editor in a forum designed to be a robust, and always though-provoking “conversation” among members. 

NAFI Director of Publications & Editor David Hipschman is contracted to produce Mentor. His career has included stints as EAA's Director of Publications, Foreign Service Editor at San Francisco Chronicle, and Editor at the Casper Star-Tribune, which won the GLAAD Media Award for Excellence on his watch. He brings a level of journalistic expertise and the highest levels of editorial integrity to the magazine.