Session 1 – 11:00-12:00 AM – Building Experimental Aircraft with Rian Johnson / Van’s Aircraft

Join our special forum with Rian Johnson, Chief Engineer at Van’s, as he shares insights and experiences design aircraft at one of the most popular kit plane companies.

Session 2 – 1:00-2:00 PM – Citabria to Convective Clouds: Stories from an FAA Weather Briefer with Debra Plymate

Veteran FAA weather briefer, flight instructor, and 99, Debra Plymate shares stories and insights from her life in aviation, from early lessons in a Citabria to briefing legendary test pilots such as Scott Crossfield. Look at weather graphics like 500 mb charts, radar, and satellite imagery, analyze Northwest weather patterns, and simplify complex weather information for smart flying decisions.

Debra has been flying since 1974 and spent much of her FAA career helping pilots understand weather and its impact on flight safety.

Session 3 – 2:30-3:30PM – Beyond Cell Coverage: Affordable Emergency Communication for Backcountry Flying

This presentation focuses on emergency communications options for pilots operating outside of reliable cellular coverage.  Topics include affordable personal locater beacons, satellite messengers, and other communication devices that are widely now available (and affordable).  We will discuss what happens behind the scenes when you push the little red button, who you will be talking to, and who will show up to assist you – including some real world stories of people whose lives have been saved by having one.