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Why Mentorship Matters in Aviation Training

August 22, 2025

Author: Carlos García

Whether you're thinking about learning how to fly a plane or already knee-deep in your flight training, one theme comes up again and again in aviation conversations: mentorship. On The James Spearman Show, Lee Collins and James shared just how much mentors, instructors, and community figures shaped his aviation journey, from private pilot lessons to warbird flying.

Learning to fly takes time, resources, and a mindset shift. But no one has to go it alone. The right mentors can help reduce the overwhelm, improve your confidence, and ultimately make your aviation training safer and more fulfilling.

Let’s break down how aviation mentorship works, and why it might just be the most valuable part of your journey.

The Real Value of Mentors When Learning to Fly

Aviation training is more than just classroom time and logging hours. It’s a process built on trust, guidance, and real-time feedback. For many pilots, that process is made smoother by mentors, instructors, experienced aviators, or even fellow students.

“I had a good flight school, AVZ over here in Knoxville… The owner actually kind of was my broker… using his years of experience.” — Lee Collins

That kind of mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. A good instructor who’s willing to talk you through more than just maneuvers, like buying your first aircraft or figuring out insurance, can be a game-changer.

Many new students find themselves Googling what is aviation training, but the truth is: the best answers often come from those with lived experience.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Starting your aviation training can feel overwhelming. But mentors help ground you in what matters most. They share lessons that don’t show up in a syllabus.

“Try to find professionals, get a hold of groups… just like you did. And have a more of a humble mindset and conservative one.” — James

If you’ve ever searched aviation training near me, you’ve likely seen a range of options. A mentor helps you choose the right path, not just the fastest one.

Starting Your Journey: How to Become a Pilot

One of the most common questions people ask is, how to become a pilot? And while the answer includes getting a medical certificate, choosing a flight school, and beginning ground and flight instruction, that’s only part of the picture.

From Curiosity to Cockpit with a Guide at Your Side

Mentors play a crucial role in the early stages. The guest on the show mentioned how instructors helped him move from interest to action:

“You start to… get a network of people.” — Lee Collins

As you begin, you may find yourself comparing how long does it take to become a pilot or wondering if you're doing it the “right” way. A mentor cuts through that noise.

What Is Aviation Training and Why Guidance Matters Early

Aviation training includes both theoretical knowledge and practical flying. But it also includes judgment, decision-making, and resourcefulness. Mentors help develop that inner checklist that keeps you flying safely.

They also help set expectations around how long flight training takes, reminding you that progress isn’t always linear, and that’s okay.

Mentors Make Flight Training Smarter and Safer

Aviation is built on a foundation of safety. Whether you're flying solo or in formation, making the right decisions under pressure is critical. And the right guidance can save you from preventable mistakes.

“You need to maintain proficiency and take it seriously… hire a professional pilot…” — James

Experience That Keeps You Safe in the Air

One of the most impactful things mentors offer is perspective. They've often made the same mistakes you're trying to avoid. From reviewing weather decisions to understanding your personal minimums, mentors keep safety top of mind.

If you’re wondering how much does it cost to become a pilot, mentors can also help you avoid hidden costs or expensive detours in training. That insight alone can pay for itself.

From Learning to Fly to Teaching Others

Some of the best mentors were once mentored themselves. On the podcast, the guest shared how his instructor not only taught him instrument flying, but insisted on combining private and instrument training to strengthen his overall skills.

“He mandated… private pilot and instrument training with him. It just makes you a better pilot.” — Lee Collins

Learning to Fly Takes Time, Mentorship Makes It Worth It

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to becoming a pilot. But everyone wants to know two things: how long does it take to become a pilot and how much does it cost to become a pilot. A mentor helps you answer both with context, not just numbers.

Mentors Can Help You Avoid Expensive Mistakes

Flight school pricing varies, but the private pilot license cost can range from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on your location, pace, and additional training needs. With that kind of investment, having someone walk you through best practices is invaluable.

“With the help and work of Randy Long… walked me through the whole process.” — Lee Collins

Mentors also help set realistic expectations. They can share timelines, connect you to reputable instructors, and keep your eyes on long-term goals, not just hours flown.

From Warbirds to First Lessons, Everyone Starts Somewhere

“A good friend of ours… just took me under his wing.” — Lee Collins

Whether you’re dreaming of aerobatics or simply flying for fun, everyone has a starting point. A good mentor reminds you of that and helps you focus on learning, not comparing.

Finding Aviation Training and Mentors Near You

Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. It can be a flight instructor who answers your questions with patience. It can be a group of fellow students in your aviation training near me search. Or it could be someone at your local airport willing to share their experience.

Where to Meet the People Who Make the Journey Possible

“The T-34 Association… walked me through everything.” — James

Local EAA chapters, flying clubs, or even hangar neighbors can be excellent sources of wisdom. Ask questions. Offer help. And listen closely.

If you're just starting to learn how to fly a plane, don't underestimate the power of human connection in the process. A good mentor won’t just help you pass, they’ll help you thrive.

Why This Kind of Support Still Matters Today

Modern aviation may rely on GPS and glass cockpits, but mentorship is still analog at its core. It's conversations at the hangar, mid-flight check-ins, or follow-up calls after a long cross-country.

Mentors remind you that aviation isn’t just about moving from point A to point B. It’s about being a safe, capable pilot who respects the journey.

Final Thoughts: The Mindset Behind Becoming a Pilot

Aviation training requires more than technical skill, it takes humility, curiosity, and discipline. Mentorship helps foster those traits early and often.

If you’re asking how pilot training really works or wondering how long it takes to learn aviation, the answer is: it depends on how committed you are and who you’re learning from.

The good news? You don’t need to figure it all out yourself. Just like the guest on The James Spearman Show, your aviation journey will be shaped by those who are willing to share their time and wisdom.

Need a Mentor to Get Started?

At Spearman Aircraft, James is passionate about aviation and about people. Whether you're just beginning your flight lessons or thinking about buying your first plane, he’d be thrilled to support you on your journey. It’s never too early, or too late, to have someone in your corner. Contact him here.