USAF Major General Tommy Williams to Discuss Pilot Shortage, Public-Private Partnerships at National Training Aircraft Symposium, Aug. 14 - 16

July 13, 2017
The National Training Aircraft Symposium (NTAS) at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will focus on current research conducted in academia and industry in areas ranging from pilot supply and flight training, to technology and leadership in aviation.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – U.S. Air Force Major General Tommy J. Williams will discuss strategic measures the Air Force is taking to address the pilot shortage and a proposed public-private partnership during NTAS 2.0 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Aug. 14 to 16

General Williams, an Embry-Riddle alumnus, is the mobilization assistant to the deputy chief of staff for operations at the U.S. Air Force Headquarters in Washington, D.C. In this role, he assists in formulating policy that supports air, space, irregular warfare, counter proliferation, homeland security, weather and cyber operations. He also is involved in determining necessary operational requirements, capabilities and training to support national security objectives and military strategy.

Additional Keynote Speakers and Panel Topics

The Honorable Christopher Hart - Hart is currently a member and immediate past Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board. Hart has also served as Deputy Director, Air Traffic Safety Oversight Service, and Assistant Administrator for System Safety, both at the FAA, and as Deputy Administrator for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

Mark Baker, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association - Baker has been flying for more than 35 years. With more than 7,500 hours in the left seat, he holds a commercial pilot certificate with single and multiengine land and seaplane ratings, rotorcraft rating and many additional type ratings. Baker has had a distinguished career in top leadership positions at companies including The Home Depot, Gander Mountain, and Orchard Supply Hardware. 

John S. Duncan, Director, Flight Standards Service, FAA - Duncan oversees the development, coordination and execution of policies, standards, systems and procedures, and program plans that govern the operations, maintenance and airworthiness of all U.S. civil aircraft. This includes those of U.S. and foreign carriers when operating in and over the United States, its territories and possessions.

 Panel topics will address:

• Advances in Flight Training

• Aviation Education

• Flight Simulation

• Human Factors & Flight Operations

• Leadership in Aviation

• Pilot Supply Issues

• Professionalism - The Challenges of Preparing the Next Generation

• Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality & Mixed Reality

Visit the conference website for more information and registration. For NTAS questions, please call (386) 226-6754 or email [email protected].