About this episode

The episode explores the DPE shortage myth and how technology is transforming flight training and check rides.

Is there really a DPE shortage, or is aviation facing an efficiency problem? And how is technology transforming flight training and check rides? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson sit down with Adam Shimmens, CEO of PilExOS and 20-year private pilot, to explore the intersection of aviation technology and flight training. From the DPE scheduling crisis to AI-powered cockpit tools, this conversation digs into what's really happening behind the scenes in general aviation: The DPE shortage myth—why roughly 400 examiners are doing over 80% of check rides nationwide, and why the real issue may be efficiency, not capacity How PilExOS is building centralized software to streamline check ride scheduling, quality management, and DPE operations for flight schools and pilot examiners Part 141 modernization and examining authority—the pros, cons, and quality control challenges of flight schools conducting their own check rides The evolution of EFBs, glass cockpits, and aviation software from 2006 to today, and what student pilots gain (and risk) from modern technology AI and the future of aviation—predictive maintenance, VR-based flight simulation, adaptive…

People in this episode

Hosts: Brandon Martini, Carson Vasquez

Guest: Adam Shimmens

Topics covered

• DPE shortage
• aviation technology
• flight training
• check rides
• efficiency in aviation
• AI in aviation
• career advice for pilots

Keywords

• DPE shortage
• flight training
• check rides
• aviation technology
• AI in aviation
• student pilots
• career advice

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: PilExOS

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