Space Lasers, The Experience Evacuation and Inspiring the Next Generation With David Cohen

The Pilot Network Podcast

In this episode, Adam Uhan chats with David Cohen, an experienced pilot and educator, about his journey from teaching to aviation. They reflect on David's 26-year Air Force career, his transition into Disney, and his return to education. They also discuss the benefits of smaller schools, the importance of real-world experience, and the evolution of aviation education.

Cohen traveled globally as an instructor pilot and commissioned officer in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of colonel. After serving over 26 years in the Air Force, Cohen moved to Florida to inspire the next generation of pilots by teaching the Air Force Junior ROTC in Orange County Public Schools and Aviation in Lake County Schools. Cohen started his experience in higher education by bringing dual-enrollment aviation programs to the Orange and Lake County school districts as an adjunct professor with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for six years.

Cohen earned a B.S. in aerospace engineering from Boston University, an M.S. in industrial engineering from New Mexico State University, and an MBA from Washington State University. He was also a National Defense Fellow with the Institute for Defense Analyses in Alexandria, Virginia.

David is a thoughtful, insightful, and inspiring guy who works with young pilots and has a passion for education and improving the lives of pilots everywhere. It was a pleasure to interview him today, and this interview cannot be missed!

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(0:00) Introduction and guest background: David Cohen's journey from teaching to aviation (13:04) David's influences and fascination with flying leading to a career in aviation (18:39) Reflections on David's 26-year career in the Air Force (32:15) Deciding on the next career move post Air Force: Transition into Disney (41:03) Transition into education and teaching high school: Building the ground school program (1:00:04) Discussion on the benefits of a personal experience in smaller schools (1:17:03) The importance of building relationships with professors and real-world experience in education (1:30:03) The importance of enjoying what you're doing and the evolution of aviation education