The Hangar Z Podcast

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS.In This two-part series of the Hanger Z podcast Jack Schonely and Jon Gray welcome Randy Rowles onto the podcast.Randy shares his inspiring journey from dropping out of high school to becoming the owner and president of the Helicopter Institute. He discusses the pivotal moments in his life that shaped his passion for flying, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges he faced along the way. Randy's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community in achieving one's dreams. In this conversation, Randy Rowles shares his journey through the helicopter industry, emphasizing the importance of networking, career transitions, and the impact of relationships on professional growth.He discusses his experiences at Bell Helicopter, the challenges faced during his time at Silver State, and the founding of the Helicopter Institute, which has become a family business dedicated to high-quality training. Randy's story highlights determination, grit, and the significance of mentorship in shaping one's career.Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Summit Aviation and Spectrum Aeromed.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS.This episode of the Hanger Z podcast was recorded on location in Houston Texas at the Airborne Public Safety Aviation Conference known as APSCON.Hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray have a discussion with the Airborne Public Safety Association Executive Director and CEO Dan Schwarzbach and APSA President Richard Bray.The conversation at APSCON 2024 highlights the evolution of law enforcement aviation, focusing on technological advancements, the importance of networking, and the role of training and partnerships in enhancing operational effectiveness. The guests discuss the significant changes in aviation technology, the growth of the APSCON conference, and the value of community connections in the industry. The conversation covers various aspects of APSA member support and benefits. provided by the organization, including scholarships, webinars, and networking opportunities. It also discusses future plans for expansion into Europe and the importance of media in promoting the aviation industry and recruitment efforts. The closing remarks highlight the dedication of the members and the ongoing efforts to build a strong community.Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Robinson Helicopters and SHOTOVER.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!  In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with the 2024 Airborne  Public Safety Aviation Association's Tactical Flight Officer of the Year award recipient, Senior Deputy Eric Johnson, and Sergeant Jerry Hunter, from the Kings County (California) Sheriff’s Office.   Eric and Jerry discuss the award, their backgrounds in law enforcement, the establishment of their air support unit, and the critical role of aviation in enhancing canine operations and overall public safety within Kings County.   The conversation highlights the importance of the ongoing development of operational strategies for effective air support. Eric and Jerry emphasize the significance of transparency, the commitment to excellence and hard work, and the impact of their operations on public safety.   They also discuss the pride taken in maintaining aircraft and facilities and the role of leadership in fostering a positive culture within their program.  The Hangar Z would like to congratulate Eric for earning the APSA TFO of the Year Award and acknowledge him for his dedication to public safety aviation and the example he sets as a tactical flight officer.Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Bell, and Spectrum Aeromed.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!  In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with the 2024 Airborne  Public Safety Aviation Association's Tactical Flight Officer of the Year award recipient, Senior Deputy Eric Johnson, and Sergeant Jerry Hunter, from the Kings County (California) Sheriff’s Office.   Eric and Jerry discuss the award, their backgrounds in law enforcement, the establishment of their air support unit, and the critical role of aviation in enhancing canine operations and overall public safety within Kings County.   The conversation highlights the importance of the ongoing development of operational strategies for effective air support. Eric and Jerry emphasize the significance of transparency, the commitment to excellence and hard work, and the impact of their operations on public safety.   They also discuss the pride taken in maintaining aircraft and facilities and the role of leadership in fostering a positive culture within their program.  The Hangar Z would like to congratulate Eric for earning the APSA TFO of the Year Award and acknowledge him for his dedication to public safety aviation and the example he sets as a tactical flight officer. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Precision Aviation Group and Spectrolab.