Retirees: How to Keep Giving Back to Business Aviation

For many retiring business aviation professionals, adjusting to a less active lifestyle can be challenging.

Retirees say one key to smoothly transitioning from full-time work to retirement is maintaining social connections. They often find fulfillment by sharing their experience and expertise with others.

“It’s tough to retire and leave all that behind, so it’s fun to reconnect where possible,” said Jay Evans, CAM, who retired from NBAA as director of professional development. “The key is finding ways to make this possible as a retired aviation professional who is often more limited in resources. That can make it tough to reconnect in ways they did in the past.”

NBAA provides many opportunities to give back, including participating in NBAA events, but the travel can be costly. Look for local events from NBAA and regional business aviation organizations to stay connected, continue learning and share your experience. When you do attend these events, look for the new people.

“Always be open to talking with younger folks,” said Bob Lamond, who retired as NBAA’s director of air traffic services and infrastructure. “Whenever there’s an opportunity, like at regional events, look for new people for the industry and relay your experiences. That experience is worth passing along.”

“Other ways to help as a retiree is to be a guest speaker on aviation at local education programs and universities. Several aviation-related classes are always looking for ways to show realistic views on what business aviation professionals really do,” said Evans.

Lamond recommends that retirees always keep learning.

“Read, read and read more,” said Lamond. “I now find time to actually read the pile of professional magazines that I never had time for before. This is the best way for me to keep up with the aviation industry and let me stay involved in some manner,” he said.

Numerous volunteer opportunities exist for retired aviation professionals, including the NBAA Mentoring Network, Young Eagles or Scouts programs or as docents at aviation museums. However, before volunteering, make sure it’s the right fit for your personality, schedule and resources.

To help retirees maintain their industry expertise, NBAA offers retired professional memberships for any person previously employed in business aviation.

Review information about regional groups, issues and events at nbaa.org/regional.