YoPros: Bosses Who Empower Young Professionals Help Bizav

It takes savvy and insightful managers to ensure that each new generation of young professionals in business aviation (YoPros) can successfully lead the industry toward a bright future. They know that allowing YoPros to learn and grow will eventually help the entire industry to thrive.

“YoPros are the key to the future,” said Texas-based Galaxy FBO General Manager Jamie Muñoz. She encourages young professionals to improve their workplace processes in ways that will be useful to everyone.

In fact, there are countless industry YoPros who have the potential, passion and drive to grow, but without the benefit of a supervisor who empowers them, they can hit a wall.

“I’m happy to teach anybody any aspect of what I do and what I know,” said Brad Nojaim, president and general manager of Reliance Aviation Miami. “Ask questions. Stand out. Make sure your supervisors know that you want to be part of the success of the company.”

It’s not enough for managers to set tasks and give orders. “People will perform better when they understand that their job matters,” Nojaim said.

Managers should recognize that the job satisfaction of their younger employees and their ever-improving skill sets are long-term industry assets. The boss plays a vital role in developing and maintaining these assets, and it’s incumbent upon managers to properly prepare their YoPros for success.

Be Prepared to Show Up as a Leader

Case in point: When NBAA Senior Marketing Manager Ashley Granada was starting out as a customer service rep at an independent FBO, she figured out how to turn her hobby of photography into the first step in her marketing career.

With zero marketing experience, Granada let her boss know that she was eager to help the business grow – and willing to learn. Starting that conversation marked a dramatic turning point in Granada’s career.

“You have to take that first step,” Granada said. “Raise your hand and show you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone. Take initiative and try something new, even if you don’t feel 100% ready. You need to be prepared to show up as a leader wherever you are.

“The other important part is having a manager who not only listens but consistently encourages you to take on new challenges,” she said. “That support can make all the difference.”

Nojaim remembers a relatively new Reliance line-service tech who noticed a hangar door not properly closed following an after-hours meeting. “He had left the site, but he came back and closed it,” Nojaim said. “Little things matter. Show me that you care.”

When individuals who care are given a jump, it’s good for business aviation.

Muñoz offered this advice to managers who oversee young professionals: “Listen to them, challenge them and give them the opportunity to grow. It’s in all of our interest.”

Learn more about helping young professionals grow in their roles by visiting nbaa.org/mentor.