Duke Valentour
Bio
Duke Valentour works as an Industrial Engineer and Systems Engineer at Ball Aerospace, a part of BAE Systems, and now operates under Space & Mission Systems in Boulder, Colorado.
Stories (27)
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Wings to Wilderness: The Surprising Parallels Between Flight Instruction and Mountain Training
When people think of flight instructors, they usually imagine someone inside a cockpit, guiding a student pilot through airspace, radio calls, and emergency procedures. On the other hand, mountain guides or avalanche instructors are seen leading groups through snow-covered peaks, teaching backcountry safety, rope work, and survival techniques. At first glance, these two environments couldn’t be more different. Yet, many flight instructors are discovering that their skill sets transfer remarkably well to icy mountain terrain. From communication to risk management, their background in aviation gives them a strong foundation for teaching and leading in the mountains.
By Duke Valentour8 months ago in Education
Flying Smart: How Commercial Pilots Balance Business Costs and Aviation Rules
Flying an airplane might seem like all adventure and sky views, but for commercial pilots, it’s also a serious business. Each flight comes with a lengthy checklist—not just for takeoff but also for cost and compliance. Today’s pilots are not only masters of the controls but also key players in the success of their airline’s bottom line. From fuel management to safety standards, the business of the skies demands both precision and responsibility.
By Duke Valentour8 months ago in Education
The Path to Becoming a Certified Flight Instructor
For many pilots, becoming a flight instructor is the ultimate goal—a career that combines a passion for aviation with the opportunity to teach and inspire others. The journey from an aspiring pilot to a certified flight instructor (CFI) is filled with challenges, education, and growth. This process is not only about mastering flight skills but also learning how to pass on that knowledge effectively. This article examines the step-by-step process of becoming a certified flight instructor and the essential skills required to succeed in this dynamic and rewarding field.
By Duke Valentour8 months ago in Education
