Austin Beran

Interview Project: Part 2

Communications 1010-008
2/23/16
Interview Analysis Memo

DATE: February 23, 2016

TO: Professor Dave Gagon
FROM: Austin Beran
SUBJECT: Interview Analysis Memo, COMM 1010-008
I had the pleasure of interviewing Matt French, a corporate pilot for different firms around
America. I always wondered what it took a man to really fly, therefore I interviewed Matt on the
lines of this subject.
Though I have no desire myself to become a pilot, I always thought this to be one of the most
interesting career paths due to the fact that he navigates people through the dark night sky safely.
I would love to possess the characteristics of any pilot, however because after interviewing matt,
I can tell that persistence, drive and academic resilience are much needed for aviation.
This memo summarizes the useful information relayed from my time speaking with matt.
Summary of Lessons Learned
Getting started in aviation
I learned that Piloting an aircraft is definitely a career choice for the dreamer, one who falls in
love with the idea of flying. Obviously one such as myself thinks little of what it takes to fly,
although I am very quick to utilize this precious privilege. Being a consumer we fail to take
account of the many hours devoted, the extreme precautions taken, and the advanced technical
educational priorities of a pilot.
From Matts experience I learned that Utah Valley University is one of the top five aviation
schools in America. This drilled down some of my questions regarding aviation training. I was
curious as to how you would go about picking the institute for your training. For matts
circumstances, he was able to go to school close to home and family, here in salt lake yet still
obtaining some of the best educational experiences in the country. Matt did have other options
available but UVU was clearly his path of least and best resistance for what he needed.
Matt shared that he went through school and received a 4 year degree for aviation and following
school endured a long 250+ hour pilot training. Piloting education continues after you start flying
solo, every 6 months you as a pilot enter a thorough exam passed by a presiding Chief Pilot for
your region.
A Typical Day

Matt gave a detailed description of his early dreams of flying, when his friends father allowed
him to ride along on a flight. After this point he was hooked.
Unlike commercial pilots, matt explained that he has a much more preferred schedule, being a
corporate pilot. Basically he chauffeurs Men of business, to and fro throughout the states so that
they can enjoy their lives outside of work, whilst taking care of business when needed. Instead of
being gone 4-5 days a week as a commercial pilot, his endeavors only keep him away for about
2-3 days a week. Being a corporate pilot also entitles you to a degree to Be your own boss.
Matt loves his job because he says When you are 30000 feet above the air and all you can see is
open sky as far as your eye will let you, nothing really seems to stressful. Definitely not your
average office. Waking up at 7 am, and getting back from your 1000 mile trip around 5 pm also
makes for a nice day of work. Though matt does not have a family, he knows other pilots who
do. Though the job is overall pretty kush, if you will, he does say that the ever in flux schedules
sometimes can take a toll.
If Matt were to request off for a vacation he would have to do so about a month or more ahead to
ensure another pilot available to cover for him.
Continuing Education
As mentioned above, matt does have routine exams every 6 months and an inspection of his
piloting is carried out by the Chief Pilot of the region. Matt mentioned that this isnt too stressful
however If things with the technology were to change, he would indeed run into some continued
education.
I asked matt why pilots draw out every announcement as well, and he let me in on a universal
secret of every pilot by saying We just love the sound of our own voice over the radio.
Analysis of my interviewing Process
I had the utmost enjoyment interviewing matt and what I learned goes beyond wanting to
become a pilot, it applies to all walks of life as far as education goes. Matt said it to At the end
of the day, its not giving up. Keep striving and whatever you want will eventually materialize.
I had my outline in front of me, and I did have my questions ready in the forefront of my mind
however there were times when I paused a little excessively, due to thoughts darting through my
mind based on his responses to my questions. Piloting and aviation is so interesting and I
definitely ran into some tangents in my head of picturing myself flying between questions.
Overall I had a great experience, and I gained a new workout/networking friend therefore I am
satisfied with the experience.

Letter of Thanks
15163 S gallant dr.
Bluffdale, UT 84065
2/23/2016

3060 DePauw Ave

Indianaoplis,IN

Dear Matt,
Thank you my friend, it truly was awesome interviewing you. I was surprised to find out all the
information that you relayed to me regarding a career in aviation. I now have an outline of what
it really takes.
I wish you luck on future endeavors. Because of this meeting, though I may not be pursuing
aviation, I know I will take away the elements of hard work and persistence to my academics,
wherever I may end up.
Great workout also, I look forward to a developed networking relationship with you in the near
future.

Sincerely,

Austin Beran