In the final episode of our 3-part podcast series on student success, our Helicopter Chief Instructor Eric Doughtie and IFR Lead CFI Jan Vontobel discuss an essential component of helicopter pilot training: progress checks. These evaluations are critical checkpoints in a student’s development, providing opportunities for growth and reflection. Whether you are pursuing your Private, Commercial, or Instrument Rating, understanding the stage check process is vital to advancing through your helicopter flight training with confidence.
Here is a more detailed look at the key takeaways from this insightful conversation:
Part 3 of Student Success: Insights from Our Latest Podcast
1. Thorough Preparation Leads to Success
A key point raised during the discussion is the importance of thorough preparation. Eric and Jan recommend that students consult peers who have recently completed their stage checks, gaining insights into the evaluation process. Learning from the experiences of others can help students better understand what to expect during the check and reduce any uncertainty. This peer guidance, combined with diligent study and practice, can increase a student’s confidence and readiness for the evaluation.
2. Managing Stress is Part of the Process
It is common for students to experience stress and anxiety during a stage check, which may affect their performance. Eric and Jan emphasize that a stage check may not always reflect a student’s full capabilities due to the pressure of the moment. Recognizing that stress is a natural part of the process is important, especially during training, where precision is critical. Rather than viewing this as a setback, students should focus on learning from the experience and refining their skills moving forward.
3. Self-Care is Essential to Success
Proper self-care, both mental and physical, plays an important role in preparing for a stage check. Eric and Jan underscore the significance of rest, nutrition, and mental wellness in ensuring peak performance during these evaluations. Fatigue and stress can contribute to mistakes or a decline in concentration during flight, especially in helicopter training. By prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy routine, students can enhance their mental clarity and resilience, leading to a more successful stage check outcome.
4. Failure Provides Valuable Learning Opportunities
One of the most important points discussed is that a failed stage check should be viewed as a learning opportunity, not a setback. In flight training, setbacks are an inherent part of the learning process. Failure can highlight areas for improvement and give students the opportunity to address those weaknesses before progressing further. By embracing failure as a stepping stone to success, students can approach their next stage check with renewed determination and improved skills.
5. Stage Checkers Are Advocates for Student Success
Eric and Jan also highlight the role of stage checkers as advocates for student success. Stage checkers are not just evaluators—they are invested in the progress of each student in helicopter training. Their role is to provide constructive feedback and guide students toward success in their training. Understanding this can help students view stage checkers as mentors and supporters rather than simply assessors, making the evaluation process less intimidating and more collaborative.
This episode provides essential insights for anyone navigating the helicopter flight training process, especially those approaching a progress check. Eric and Jan’s expert advice offers valuable guidance on how to prepare, manage stress, and view the evaluation process as an opportunity for growth.
Whether you're looking to begin your helicopter pilot career or are already a student progressing through your training, we encourage you to listen to the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of how to succeed in your helicopter training journey.