Ag Aviator Podcast #4 Michael Rutledge

On this episode I have the privilege of speaking with former Navy SEAL and Special operations helicopter pilot, Michael Rutledge. Mike has been a passionate aviator his whole life and while actively serving in the military, he pursued a career as an Ag Aviator. After 30 years of service he is now running his own aerial application business. We discuss his military career and how his experiences there helped in becoming a successful ag pilot. Mentorship is something Mike takes very serious so we dive into what the mentor mentee relationship should be like. Big thanks to our sponsor Amberican Designs check out Travis's products at ambericandesigns.com . Make sure to keep up with me on Instagram or Facebook @valleyagpilot Thanks for tuning into the Ag Aviator Podcast!

[@DogOneIsOpen]

Had Mike give me a call back when I was a young Army pilot dropping resumés looking for an ag pilot internship. He gave me great advice, and it was very impressive to me that someone with his experience would take the time to give a random person like myself as much time as he did. He’s the real deal.

[@Amilionite]

Please come out with another podcast soon!

[@jamesriordan7]

I really enjoy your podcasts and UA-cam videos! I’m working towards flying SEATs so I particularly liked your interview with Peter Shellenberger. Are you going to be at the NAAA expo in GA next month? My teenage son and I will be attending for the first time and looking forward to it! Thanks!

[@sixwillwin]

400 hours and gonna fly a 502 as first ag plane? I don’t agree with that. Even though the preparation and training seems good, why not start in a slower airplane and learn how to fly a heavily loaded low performance aircraft. So many recent fatal accidents came from too soon turbine scenarios.