David Dodson, Master Instructor
Dave, N393A, is an independent flight instructor in South Bend (SBN) and Elkhart (EKM). He is a representative of AOPA's Airport Support Network, is active in EAA's Young Eagles program and also serves in the Indiana Civil Air Patrol.
The following is a press release from Sandy Hill, Director of Education, National Association of Flight Instructors:
The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) takes pride in announcing a significant aviation accomplishment on the part of David W Dodson, an Aviation Safety Counselor for the South Bend FSDO and a resident of Granger, IN. Recently, Dave was designated a Master CFI (Certificated Flight Instructor) by NAFI, his professional aviation organization.
To help put this achievement in its proper perspective, there are approximately 81,000 CFIs in the United States. Fewer than 400 of them have achieved that distinction thus far. The last eight national Flight Instructors of the Year were Master CFIs while Dave is one of only 11 Indiana aviation educators who have earned this prestigious "Master" title.
The Master Instructor designation is a national accreditation recognized by the FAA that is earned by candidates through a rigorous process of continuing education and peer review. Much like a flight instructor's certificate, it must be renewed biennially. This process parallels the continuing education regimen used by other professionals to enhance their knowledge base while increasing their professionalism. Simply put, the Master Instructor designation is a means by which to identify those outstanding aviation educators, those "Teachers of Flight," who have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to excellence, professional growth, and service to the aviation community.
Earning this designation is tantamount to having the words summa cum laude emblazoned on an instructor's certificate. These Masters truly represent the creme de la creme of our industry! To publicly recognize these individuals and their noteworthy accomplishments, NAFI will be hosting its "Meet the Masters" breakfasts, to which Dave will be invited, during EAA's AirVenture in Oshkosh and Sun 'n Fun in Lakeland. Any support that can be provided will be appreciated.
NAFI is dedicated to providing support and recognition for America's aviation educators while helping them raise and maintain their level of professionalism. It is also committed to providing a safe and effective learning environment for student pilots. The Association was founded in 1967 and affiliated with EAA in May of 1995.
Questions regarding the Master Instructor program may be directed to 303-485-8136 or NAFIMasters@aol.com or visit NAFI's website at www.NAFInet.org
14 May, 2003