It is a Small World...Especially in Aviation

Posted by Matthew Bila on

Published by Dennis Muli on Thu, Oct 13, 2016

IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL…ESPECIALLY IN AVIATION

We have all heard of the term “six degrees of separation” at some point. It is a theory that any two people on the planet are connected through a chain of acquaintances of five intermediaries or less. In the aviation industry, that number comes down to three or even two.

In this industry, anyone can be an acquaintance to your boss, co-worker or fellow students. We rely so much on networking that the size of your professional network has a correlation with your success in aviation. Take the instructors at the College of Aviation as an example; these are well connected individuals in the industry.

During my time at EAA's AirVenture in Oshkosh this summer, I met many individuals who have either worked with or have met these instructors at a conference. There were talks about how today is the best time to be in aviation because of the rapid growth that is happening globally. At the end of my interaction, I realized how small our professional community is and how everything that you do will indirectly affect you in the future.

That acquaintance of yours could also be your ticket to an interview with that airline that you have been dreaming of. That short conversation you had with a recruiter on Aviation Outlook Day might make him remember you the next time he sees you in the interview room.

At the end of the day, anyone that you have met on your journey should be treated respectfully and courteously as you never know when you will cross paths with them again.  Like I said, it’s a small world especially in aviation.