Ready 4 Pushback

By: Nik Fialka
  • Summary

  • If you're looking to enter the commercial aviation industry, we've got the right podcast for you! With pilot and interview coach Nik Fialka as your host, we will deliver exceptional and insightful content to help you understand the landscape of professional aviation. We will help you organize your thoughts, score interview points, and ace the aviation recruitment process. You will get a deep dive into all the facets of the aviation industry by hearing directly from leaders and recruiters. You’ll learn how to stay composed and articulate yourself with impact as we uncover airline-specific pilot selection demands, analyze the aviation industry's culture, and give you great interview advice. Listen to the Ready 4 Pushback podcast to transform yourself and gain valuable perspective about your dream job!
    2022
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Episodes
  • Ep219 : ATP-CTP and Type Ratings: How Flight Training International Prepares You for Success
    Feb 17 2025
    ATP-CTP is a critical step toward becoming an airline pilot, but how do you prepare for it and make the most of your training? In this episode, Dan Wilborn from Flight Training International (FTI) breaks down what to expect in ATP-CTP, the importance of early preparation, and how FTI’s personalized approach helps pilots succeed. With training centers in Denver and Miami, FTI offers ATP-CTP courses twice a month, including academic instruction and hands-on experience in Boeing and Airbus simulators. Learn about the three key parts of ATP certification—ATP-CTP, the written exam, and the practical—and how to tailor your training to fit your goals. Plus, find out how to use military benefits like the GI Bill to fund your training and why investing in the right program can make all the difference in your career WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE What ATP-CTP training involves and how Flight Training International prepares pilots for success. The structure of ATP certification: ATP-CTP, the written exam, and the ATP practical. Why airlines value ATP-CTP and type ratings when evaluating candidates. How to prepare for ATP-CTP and the importance of backing up your time with early study. The benefits of training at FTI, including small class sizes, experienced instructors, and personalized support. How to use military benefits like the GI Bill to fund your ATP training. How to contact FTI for more information or to sign up for training. #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining
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    41 mins
  • Ep218: Flying with Wisdom: Why Prudence and Virtue Make You a Better Pilot
    Feb 13 2025
    Summary Good pilots don’t just react—they think ahead, assess risks, and make informed decisions. In this episode, we explore the role of prudence in aviation and why careful judgment is essential for flight safety. From preflight planning to in-flight decision-making, pilots must use reason, logic, and experience rather than impulse or emotion. Threat and error management, following procedures, and using crew resources are all part of being a prudent pilot. But prudence isn’t just about safety—it’s also a key trait of great leaders. Learn how developing this virtue can earn you trust and respect in aviation and beyond. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE What prudence means in aviation and why it’s essential for safe flying. How careful planning, risk assessment, and thoughtful judgment improve decision-making. The role of threat and error management in preventing accidents. Why following procedures, using crew resources, and avoiding unnecessary risks make you a better pilot. How prudence translates into leadership and helps build trust and respect. Why pilots are held to a higher standard and must continually develop their judgment and decision-making skills.

    #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining

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    10 mins
  • Ep217: Earning your ATP and Type Rating: The Preparation, the Challenges and Keys to Success
    Feb 10 2025
    Getting your ATP is just the beginning—standing out in today’s competitive airline hiring process requires preparation, professionalism, and the right mindset. In this episode, Jimmy shares his journey from helicopter pilot to airline hire, including the challenges of ATP training and earning his A320 type rating. He discusses the intense training schedule, the high expectations, and the importance of being fully prepared. Learn how to study effectively, use chair flying techniques, and work with a sim partner to maximize your success. Discover how the ATP serves as the final gate, ensuring that you have the skills, knowledge, and professionalism needed to operate at an airline level before stepping into the cockpit as a commercial pilot. Plus, hear how getting your type rating will open more doors for you and help set you apart in airline hiring. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE Jimmy’s transition from helicopter pilot to airline hire and his ATP training experience. Why ATP is just the minimum and how type ratings can make you stand out. The intense demands of ATP training, including the schedule, workload, and check ride challenges. How to prepare effectively, including study resources, chair flying, and working with a sim partner. Why some pilots fail ATP training and how to avoid common mistakes. The importance of professionalism—looking the part, executing well, and standing out in interviews. How earning his ATP and type rating changed his job opportunities and led to airline offers.
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    1 hr and 12 mins

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Very informative and entertaining

As a perspective student about to enter the world of aviation, I am really enjoying Nick’s insight and candor about the world of aviation. He pulls in guests from a wide range of backgrounds and areas of expertise. He is very down to earth and relatable. Please continue providing this service to current and upcoming pilots.

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Great Advice

I am a student at a university doing my flight training. I like to listen to this podcast on my way to school and back because it is such good information. Thanks for a great podcast.

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Awesome podcast

Awesome Podcast to give you insights into the airline industry. A one stop shop vice scrolling through pages of blogs to find the info you need. Thanks Nik for putting this all together for everyone!

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