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Below you will find the details for this webinar. You may register by clicking the registration link found in the Webinar Information section below.
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Title:
Beyond the Wreckage - Taking the Trauma Out Of Trauma - Phase III Series
Topic:
Air Safety Investigator, Greg Feith, Comes Onboard to Discuss How to Mentally Prepare Yourself with Tragedy
Date and Time:
Tuesday, December 1, 2026, starting at 19:00 Eastern Standard Time (16:00 PST; 17:00 MST; 18:00 CST; 14:00 HST; 15:00 AKST; 17:00 Arizona; Wednesday, December 2, 2026 00:00 GMT)
Speaker(s):
Greg Feith, former NTSB Senior Air Safety Investigator, Melanie Folcik Barillaro
Brief Description:

This Nationally offered Webinar examines the personal, psychological, social, and cultural effects of aviation crashes on survivors, victims’ families, first responders, investigators, and communities. Through case studies, personal testimonies and discussion, participants will explore how air disasters shape human behavior and mental health. Learn how media coverage impacts early interpretation of crashes and impact that has on the human brain. This session also investigates themes of grief, trauma, resilience, crisis response, and recovery while analyzing the aviation industry’s evolving approach to safety and support systems. By the end of the session, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the human consequences behind aviation tragedies and the long-term impact these events leave on society. Participants will learn what resources are available and the choices they have on healing and moving forward in a healthy way.

Select Number:
EA61145462
Webinar Information

This is a ZOOM Webinar.

To register, you must click HERE or type/cut & paste :   https://faavideo.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_BC9vYKliRIabs03rUYxx2Q    into your browser.

 


Seating:
Check Additional event Information below for possible registration requirements.
Sponsoring Division:
FAASTeam
Contact Information:
Melanie Folcik Barillaro
Phone: (202) 746-6139
melanie.a.folcik.barillaro@faa.gov
Additional Event Information & Acknowledgement of Industry Sponsor(s):

This webinar is Part 4 of an on-going series that will be offered over the next few months.

Greg Feith is a renowned international aviation safety and security consultant, media spokesperson and expert witness on the topic, Feith has investigated more than 2,500 aircraft accidents worldwide since he started his career 36 years ago. In January 2016, he was inducted into the Living Legends of Aviation, in acknowledgment of his significant contributions to aviation. 

After an aviation accident, lives are changed forever. Whether you are the family left behind, the friend or colleague struggling with the incident or the first responders and investigators, there is an impact felt. Join the discussion as an experienced aviation accident investigator dives into the importance of listening to your internal needs and reaching out for the help that is available.

Greg will dive into topics that include multiple types of exposure, including hazardous materials and the effects and aftermath of operating in those conditions. How investigators in charge (IIC) not only have to investigate, but continuously monitor the mental health and well-being of their team while still staying safe themselves.  He will dig into compartmentalization and how to mentally prepare for trauma as well as how to decompress after exposure. We will discuss ways to recognize when you need different types of assistance and how to get the proper help.  We want everyone to remember, you are never weak for reaching out for help. No body but you knows what goes on in your mind once you are alone and your head hits the pillow.

There is no timeline on grief, nor is there a standard path that is followed. Everyone experiences loss differently. Learn methods and systems that are available to help you navigate these times. Learn first hand what it is like on the front lines and the journey of trauma, survival and recovery after an accident happens. We will dive into critical stress debriefs and the human factor elements. 

Mechanics returning to work after an aircraft they serviced crashed can suffer heavy post-trauma. Pilots that lost a crew member, friend or airport tenant may become fearful of flight. First responders, police, investigators and manufacturers all have their own internal conflicts. Families search for closure.

This sensitive, high level discussion will be very moving, informational and hopefully help pave a path of recovery wellness for anyone involved in air disasters. 

Disclaimer: The material provided in this presentation is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This session may cover sensitive topics, including suicide awareness and crisis response. We recognize that this topic may be difficult, evoke strong emotions, or trigger personal memories. Your well-being is our top priority. Please feel free to step out of the room at any time if you need to take a break. Anyone feeling distressed is encouraged to seek out a qualified mental health professional. Immediate, free, and confidential support is available 24/7 by contacting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988 or visit 988 Lifeline).

Please email with any questions prior to attending, due to the potential sensitive nature of the content.

Credit Applicability:
Advanced WINGS
1 Credit for Advanced Knowledge Topic 1
AMT
1 Hour Total for AMT
FAASTeam Project Information:
National Project:
Human Factors Promotion
Additional Event Documents: