MY 2 CENTS
Every morning, I ask myself one simple question: Why not me? It reminds me that I am capable, that I am chosen – not by birthright, but by decision. So don’t just live. Shine! Stand bold in what you believe; stay grounded in your truth. Move forward with fierce purpose. God is good, life is great, and you — yes, you – have every reason to believe in yourself.
Editor’s Note:
At Rotor Pro, we strive to highlight not only technical and operational excellence within our vertical-lift industry, but also the human experiences that shape the people behind the controls.
In this issue, we are proud to feature a deeply personal and powerful opinion from Randy Rowles, a respected industry leader, examiner, and advocate for safety and professionalism in rotary-wing aviation.
Originally shared, in part, through a LinkedIn post, Randy’s story resonated widely and for good reason. In “Why
Not Me?” he opens a window into the raw realities of growing up in hardship, confronting generational demons, and navigating the often unforgiving culture of the helicopter world. But more than that, it’s a message of ownership, reflection, and quiet resilience. He addresses the silent battles too many in our community face – mental health struggles, the isolating impact of social media, and the emotional toll of a demanding industry.
This is not a polished biography or a victory lap. It’s an honest opinion from someone who, despite decades of success, continues to work to be better – for his family, his students, and himself.
We are grateful to Randy for his vulnerability and willingness to share what many in our industry feel but rarely say aloud. We hope this piece inspires reflection, conversation, and, for those who need it, permission to confront their own demons with courage.
— Rotor Pro Editorial Team
Randy Rowles has been an FAA pilot examiner for 20 years for all helicopter certificates and ratings. He holds an FAA Gold Seal Flight Instructor Certificate, NAFI Master Flight Instructor designation, and was the 2013 recipient of the HAI Flight Instructor of the Year Award. Rowles is currently the owner of the Helicopter Institute. He can be reached at randyrowlesdpe@
gmail.com
rotorpro.com
9
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92
