Leading with Purpose: PMOPA CEO Mike Nichols

Mike Nichols, CEO of PMOPA, sits down with Joe to talk about his journey from growing up in Allentown, PA, to becoming a pilot and leading a nonprofit in the aviation world. They chat about why community matters, how volunteers make a big difference, and the importance of making aviation more welcoming to everyone. They also dig into safety—why it’s a top priority, how programs like the Master Aviator help pilots improve, and why training instructors the right way matters. It’s an honest, down-to-earth conversation about what’s working, what needs work, and what’s ahead for the PA46 community. Join PMOPA: https://www.mmopa.com 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com 📱 Stay Connected Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaseyAviation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PMOPA and Mike Nichols 02:56 Mike Nichols' Early Life and Aviation Interest 05:53 Transitioning into Aviation and Business 08:47 Career Path and Nonprofit Management 11:58 Involvement with NBAA and Community Engagement 14:57 The Importance of Inclusion in Aviation 18:03 Reflections on Government and Aviation Safety 20:57 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 25:36 Finding Passion in Aviation and Community Engagement 27:08 The Value of Passionate Volunteers 29:50 The Importance of Community in Nonprofits 32:50 Navigating Career Transitions and Opportunities 36:00 Innovating in Business Aviation 39:34 Leadership and Team Dynamics in Aviation 42:22 Joining PMOPA: A New Chapter 45:21 Day-to-Day Operations of a CEO in Aviation 50:54 Safety Initiatives and Community Responsibility 54:36 Addressing Fatalities and Community Action 57:44 Training Programs and Their Importance 01:00:32 The Master Aviator Program 01:01:50 Standardization in Training 01:08:19 Building a Stronger Instructor Community 01:15:25 The Future of PMOPA and Community Engagement