Title:
ASCEND 2026 - We Teach Them to Fly - Do We Teach Them to Perform?
Topic:
Beyond Flying Skills: the Role of Mental Performance Training in Aviation
Brief Description:
Pilots in training are often left to figure out the mental side of performance on their own. This session explores where mental performance training fits within the broader spectrum of pilot well-being and why it plays a critical role in safety, learning, and long-term success. Participants will learn why capable pilots can still struggle under pressure and how mental performance training helps manage mistakes, setbacks, and high-workload situations. They will discover practical strategies to improve learning, decision-making, and performance consistency, and how developing mental skills can make flying both safer and more enjoyable.
Select Number:
EA13146338
Location of Seminar:
Crowne Plaza Dallas Market Center
7050 N Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX 75247
Directions to Venue:
Follow the signs to the ASCEND Flight Training Summit meeting rooms
View Map
Seating:
Check Additional event Information below for possible registration requirements.
Sponsoring Division:
FAASTeam
Additional Event Information & Acknowledgement of Industry Sponsor(s):
Ryan "Moses" Addams retired from the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel after more than 20 years of active duty and reserve service. A former instructor pilot in the T-37 and T-6, and aircraft commander in the KC-10, he dedicated much of his career to developing the next generation of military aviators. Ryan earned his commission through AFROTC at Brigham Young University, where he received a bachelor's degree in International Relations, and later completed an MBA at Touro University. His service included deployments supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, along with joint counter-drug operations alongside the U.S. Army. Today, Ryan is a captain at a major U.S. airline and brings his passion for teaching, mentoring, and pilot development to Crosscheck. He combines decades of operational experience with a practical, people-first approach to helping pilots build confidence and perform consistently.
This presentation is offered during the 2026 ASCEND Flight Training Summit.
No fee for the presentations, but there is an admission charge for ASCEND. Visit Ascend Flight Training Summit - Pilot Education & Careers for information and conference registration information.
FAA WINGS preregistration is not required for activities offered during ASCEND.
ASCEND Flight Training Summit is co-hosted by the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) and AeroSummit.
Equal Access Information:
The FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) is committed to providing equal access to this meeting/event for all participants. If you need alternative formats or services because of a disability, please communicate your request as soon as possible with the person in the “Contact Information” area of the meeting/event notice. Note that two weeks is usually required to arrange services.
Credit Applicability:
1 Credit for Master Knowledge Topic 1
FAASTeam Project Information:
National Project:
Safety Promotion Outreach for Pilots
Additional Event Documents:
