Cadet Mentor: “We help shape the next wave of aviators.”

At PSA, our pilots have the opportunity to progress professionally, and they can also make a difference as mentors to the next generation of aviators through our Cadet program. The program offers university students a direct, guided path to becoming a First Officer at PSA through specialized training, tuition assistance, and mentorship.

To highlight the rewarding opportunities in becoming a Cadet Mentor, we talked to CLT-based First Officer Megan Lundy about her experience and why other pilots at PSA should consider becoming a mentor.

Why did you become a Cadet Mentor?

I’ve been a CLT-based First Officer for almost two years and a Cadet Mentor for half a year. While I thoroughly enjoyed flying for PSA, I found myself reminiscing fondly upon my former flight instructing job. I enjoyed guiding my students through their ratings. Being there to watch my flight students learn, celebrate their milestones, console them after difficult training events, and be a reliable source of information for any questions or advice was what I found to be highly fulfilling.

I always knew that I wanted to do more than just fly. So, one day, while I was on hot reserve, I searched for something that might bring me close to that “fulfilling” feeling again. Sure enough, the Pilot Cadet Mentor position did the trick.

What has your experience been like mentoring aspiring pilots? What do you enjoy the most about it?

As a Cadet Mentor, I once again get to be that encouraging and supportive person. I love sharing my training experience with fellow pilots and being an honest point of contact for anyone who wishes to start their airline career with PSA. All my Cadets have my personal contact information and can reach out to me with any questions or concerns. The reason I do it? Simply because I want to be the person I wish I had during my own flight training.

Why is mentorship important, and how does this role and the Cadet Program impact PSA, in your opinion?

Mentorship is important because navigating the path to a career in aviation can sometimes be stressful, confusing, and frustrating. As a newer pilot, having a mentor who can give you a heads up on upcoming life changes, help prepare you for an interview, clarify contract and reserve rules, or just be someone who can relate to the unique struggles that come with this industry can make or break their success. The Cadet Program allows flight students easy access to mentorship from PSA pilots, such as myself, which in turn provides PSA with well-prepared First Officers.

What would you say to team members interested in becoming a Cadet Mentor?

To any team members on the fence about becoming a Cadet Mentor: every pilot can benefit from receiving mentorship, and in fact, most of us have. By repaying the benefits we received during our own flight training, we help shape the next wave of aviators who might just end up in our right seat someday.