Event Details and Registration

CFIs are often the first to notice when a student pilot is struggling. This session will equip CFIs with practical strategies to recognize signs of distress, normalize discussions of stress and wellness, and model effective IMSAFE decision-making in training environments. Drawing on recent research and real-world advocacy from the Pilot Mental Health Campaign, attendees will receive an update on mental health policy reforms and how they affect student pilots. Topics include assessing and identifying stress levels in student pilots, differentiating between stress and distress, how to talk about stress without increasing stigma, understanding FAR 61.53 and the AME guide, and how to refer a student to mental health resources without stepping beyond a CFI’s scope.

PRESENTED DURING THE EAA AIRVENTURE FLY-IN.  NO FEE FOR THE NAFI PRESENTATIONS, BUT AN ENTRANCE FEE IS REQUIRED BY EAA AIRVENTURE TO ENTER THE GROUNDS.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EAA AIRVENTURE ADMISSIONS VISIT  https://www.eaa.org/airventure

The PPC Education Center is connected to the EAA Aviation Museum.

Dr. Robert Zeglin is a Certified Flight Instructor, Lead Instructor for a flight school in Florida, licensed mental health counselor, and professor of counseling. He chairs the Board of Directors of The Arc Jacksonville and leads strategic planning for the Pilot Mental Health Campaign, a national advocacy group focused on reducing stigma and reforming FAA mental health policy. With experience training both pilots and psychotherapists, Dr. Zeglin works at the intersection of aviation safety and behavioral health. His work emphasizes practical, judgment-free ways in which instructors can support student mental health without stepping outside their professional role.

Christopher Hastings is a pilot, flight instructor, and former air traffic controller. He advocates for better mental health access across aviation. He began flying as a teenager and later left his job in ATC to instruct Air Force officers at the start of their journey to becoming military aviators. Christopher works with the Pilot Mental Health Campaign to educate aviators on the mental health aspects of the aeromedical process, pushes for reform within the system, and help shift the culture around mental health in the aviation community. With experience on both sides of the mic, he brings a clear, practical perspective on how mental health impacts aviation safety.

NAFI would like to thank EAA for making the theater and space in the EAA Pilot Proficiency Center available for NAFI's presentations, member and pilot support during EAA AirVenture 2025. 

NAFI is the National Association of Flight Instructors and is the largest association dedicated exclusively to flight instruction. NAFI’s vision is ‘Safer pilots through flight instruction excellence.’ NAFI’s mission throughout its 58-year history is to promote flight instruction excellence with education, mentorship, and advocacy. This is accomplished by providing instructors with tools and resources that help them deliver the best professional training and service possible. Anyone may join NAFI to take advantage of the many educational and flight tools, products, and discounts available. www.nafimentor.org. contact nafi@nafimentor.org 866-806-6156