For over three decades the Washington Aviation Association has been pleased to present the Northwest Aviation Conference & Trade Show at the Washington State Fair Events Center in Puyallup, Washington.
This event has grown to over 75 hours of safety seminars and 122,000 sf of aviation displays with an annual attendance of over 10,000!
This event is an opportunity to support the Northwest aviation industry, share ideas, learn new skills, be a safer pilot and create relationships with businesses, aircraft owners, and pilots.
PRELIMINARY 2026 SCHEDULE
SATURDAY:
8:00 AM Room C | Founders
High Performance Brake and Wheels
Billy James, Beringer Aero (MAINTENANCE SEMINAR)
9:00 AM | Room C | Founders
Fuel Level Accuracy in General Aviation “Why ‘close enough' fails”
Daniel Alm, Cies Corp
This presentation examines fuel quantity accuracy in general aviation from a maintenance-centered perspective. It explains why fuel indication should be treated as a measurement system rather than a single instrument, how normal maintenance activities can introduce subtle but dangerous errors, and why “close enough” is not an acceptable standard.Using operational context and accident trends, the session reinforces the IA’s role in maintaining not just hardware, but the accuracy and truthfulness of fuel information that pilots depend on in flight. (MAINTENANCE)
9:30 AM
KEYNOTE STAGE:
Pilot Seminar: Top Tips For Mountain Flying Philip Mandel, speaker, commercial, instrument, CFI, Portland FSDO FAASTeam Representative of the Year
After flying into or over almost every state in the lower forty-eight, Philip has learned a thing or two about mountain flying. Let's benefit from Philip's experience and hear his top tips so we can marvel at the stunning scenery below, whilst always being ready for "what if..."
South Foyer | Introduction to Aviation Careers
(Career Forum Session)
John Swedburg, Big Bend Community College
This engaging session guides students, parents, and those new to aviation through the many pathways available in today’s aviation industry. Participants will explore how to get from point A to points B, C, or D—no matter what their aviation dreams may be. Hear firsthand from industry professionals as they share their personal “how I got there” stories, offering practical insight into training options, career decisions, and next steps. Attendees will leave with key questions answered—and the tools and resources needed to ask the right ones as they design an aviation path aligned with their individual goals.
John Swedburg has been an active flight instructor since 1974. He retired in 2014 from full-time instruction in the Commercial Pilot Flight Training Program at Big Bend Community College but continues to share his passion for aviation education through outreach events, including managing and presenting at the Northwest Aviation Career Forum each year. John holds ATP (SMEL), Commercial (SES), CFI-A/SME/I, Advanced and Instrument Ground Instructor certificates, and a Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate. With over 16,000 hours of flight instruction given, he has taught at 58 FAA-approved FIRCs in the Seattle area. His career includes roles as Flight Instructor, Ground Instructor, Chief Flight Instructor, Aviation Division Chairman, Airman Certification Representative, Aviation Safety Counselor, and FAASTeam Representative. (career)
North Foyer | Seaplanes 101 Steve McCaughey, Seaplane Pilots
Condensed ground school to prepare you to begin your seaplane rating.
Heritage Room | Latest & Greatest from Garmin Wayne McGhee, Garmin International
Pioneer Room | Colored Charts and a Little Green Book Steve Bateman, CFI, Ground Instructor (AGI/IGI), (LSRM-A), Ph.D.
We’ve gained a great deal from the use of Electronic Flight Bags (EFB) in terms of convenience and portability, but I speculate that many users have ether forgotten, and some never knew, the foundational elements of aeronautical charts and the contents of the best kept secret of all, the Chart Supplement booklets.
10:15 AM | Logbook Do's & Dont's - Notes from the Field
Jon McLaughlin, TBX | Airworthy.com (MAINTENANCE)
10:30 AM
KEYNOTE STAGE:
Pilot Seminar: A Different Approach to Autopilot Training and Use:
Bruce Williams, pilot, speaker, CFI, bruceair.com
Many pilots have upgraded old autopilots or installed new flight control systems during avionics upgrades. But the way we learn to use autopilots and flight directors—especially in the GA world—doesn't prepare pilots to use these tools effectively. Indeed, we often overlook the role flight control systems can play in modern IFR training. Join me for a fresh look at how to incorporate autopilots and flight directors in training and everyday use.
Heritage Room | The Immense value of Upset Recovery Training (UPRT)
Mike "Cuckoo" Kloch, Chief Instructor Pilot, Specialized Aero Works
Mike will discuss what UPRT is, the incredible value gained from this training, for all pilots, provide some accident statistics, upset causes with examples, UPRT value for aircraft builders, and provide some guidelines for maintaining control of your airplane. Mike is the owner and Chief Instructor Pilot at Specialized Aero Works, where he teaches UPRT, aerobatics, formations flying, and more. He is a contract test pilot and instructor for Stratos Aircraft, Epic Aircraft, and individual builders. Mike is a 3-time Master CFI - Aerobatic (MCFI-A), a former Marine Corps F/A-18 pilot, combat veteran, and school trained Aviation Safety Officer (Naval Postgraduate School). He is also an FAA Safety Team (FAAST) Representative.
North Foyer | Mission in Motion: How Volunteer Flying Connects Patients to Care
Ricardo Lagos & Trevor Moody, Command Pilots, Angel Flight West
Volunteer pilots with Angel Flight West provide free transport for people in need across the western twelve states including Alaska and Hawaii. PNW is a particularly busy region for Angel Flight West in part due to major healthcare facilities in Seattle. Approximately 1000 missions are flown each year in WA alone. In this seminar you will learn what it’s like to fly with Angel Flight West, how to sign up for missions and how it will make you a better pilot!
Pioneer Room | Pilot VFR Refresher Workshop (until 1:30 PM)
Curt Scott, Scott Consulting/Scott Aviation, pilot, former Professor of Aviation, Green River College
Feeling like your flying skills could use a refresher? Veteran pilot, Curt Scott will help you brush off the dust! With over 5000 hours teaching flying and flying in the Northwest, Curt’s fast-paced dynamic presentation on VFR flying basics covers weather, charts, airport approach, landing, checklists and much more to make you a more confident pilot. Scott has 40 plus years working in aviation, with special focus on developing and delivering education programs covering Operations, Logistics, Planning, Reorganization and Training. Limited seating in this VFR Pilot refresher clinic. There is no additional charge beyond admission costs but we encourage you to register online. registering online will also purchase TWO DAY admission to the event.
11:30 AM | (MAINTENANCE)
11:45 AM
“A lot of pilots are afraid of stalls and spins. To me, it’s a challenge.
In a safe, controlled environment, I take people over the edge so they know what the edge looks like.”
Catherine Cavagnaro
2026 Keynote speaker
KEYNOTE STAGE:
Avoiding Loss of Control | Catherine Cavagnaro, CFI-I, ATP, DPE, Ph.D., Owner, Ace Aerobatic School
Catherine will discuss common ways pilots run into trouble in the pattern and offers tips for recovery and avoiding loss of control. Topics of discussion include pilot-induced oscillations, wake turbulence upsets, and stalls at low altitudes.
Cavagnaro’s specialty is training pilots to recover from dangerous flight conditions, particularly aerodynamic stalls, when an aircraft’s wings stop providing lift because they’ve been angled too steeply. After an airplane experiences a stall, it goes into a spin—corkscrewing toward the ground—and that’s where Cavagnaro comes in, teaching pilots the techniques necessary to right their aircraft and live to fly another day. Pilots from all over the world —including military pilots, airline pilots, and flight test pilots—come to train with Cavagnaro in Sewanee.
“A lot of pilots are afraid of stalls and spins,” says Cavagnaro. “To me, it’s a challenge, and it’s something that I love doing. I can take someone in a matter of a day or two and get them completely comfortable with stalls and spins. In a safe, controlled environment, I take people over the edge so they know what the edge looks like.”
North Foyer | Washington Pilots Association (WPA) General Meeting and Luncheon
South Foyer | Funding the Dream (Career Forum Session)
Shawn Pratt, Safety in Motion Flight Center
There is a lot of information on how to pay for college, but if you need help with flight school financing or loans, it can be confusing. Don’t let high costs stop you from your goals. There are many options for future pilots, such as federal aid, scholarships, and private loans. Discussion on the importance of the FAFASA deadline, scholarship application timelines, writing a personal statement, and the importance of developing your portfolio; all keys to building a strong scholarship application. You might also consider training programs from some airlines to lower your costs. Explore all your choices to find what fits your budget best. If the expenses seem too high, join a 45-minute session to ask questions and learn about scholarships and helpful tips. DETAILS
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1:00 PM
KEYNOTE STAGE:
AOPA Pilot Town Hall Darren Pleasance, AOPA President and CEO
Darren will provide an update on the current trends and issues facing general aviation in the region and across the country, including airport issues, the transition to unleaded fuel, and what a changing political landscape could mean for GA. Open to ALL!
Heritage Room | Doing Weather Better | Philip Mandel, speaker, commercial, instrument, CFI
An enlightening session on one of the FAA’s most overlooked yet essential resources: Aviation Weather Handbook. This comprehensive guide explains weather theory, aviation weather hazards, and the full range of U.S. aviation weather products and services. Whether you’re a student pilot or seasoned aviator, you’ll gain practical insights to become more weather-wise -- because we always fly in some kind of weather.
1:00 PM | Career Panel: Overview of job opportunities in aviation
Jeff Slakey, Moderator
In addition to commercial airlines, various other entities such as corporations, charitable organizations, fire fighting services, medical transport services, bush pilots, tourism sectors, and numerous government agencies all rely on the expertise of skilled pilots and passionate aviation enthusiasts to function in their respective roles. In our efforts to provide deeper insights, we’ve reached out to our exhibitors to gather a comprehensive overview of career perspectives. We asked them to share their stories and insights regarding how they navigated their unique paths to achieve success in the aviation industry. Bring your questions and prepare to engage in stimulating discussions!
1:30 PM | (MAINTENANCE)
2:15 PM
KEYNOTE STAGE: TBD
Heritage Room | Flying to Historic Pearson Field: Part 93 SFRA Operations
Brig Williams — Professional educator, FAASTeam Representative, active CFI at Pearson Field (KVUO), Vice Chair of the Aviation Advisory Committee, and a passionate advocate for general aviation.
Richard Kennington — Former Portland International Airport (PDX) Tower Controller and contributor to the 2012 Safety Risk Management Panel that established the SFRA for Pearson Field.
Located in close proximity to Portland International Airport (PDX), Pearson Field (KVUO) operates under a Part 93 Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA), creating unique considerations for both arrivals and departures. This session explains how standardized procedures—aligned with KVUO’s special flight rules—enhance safety and operational efficiency in this complex airspace. Attendees will learn how to locate and interpret the appropriate preflight information, properly brief and execute SFRA procedures, and apply essential local knowledge to confidently operate at one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating airports. The seminar also highlights Pearson Field’s historical significance as the home of the Pearson Air Museum, situated within the Fort Vancouver National Historic Reserve.
North Foyer | An In-Depth Overview of Idaho’s New Passport Program and Backcountry Flying
Andrew George, Idaho Aviation Association
This session provides a comprehensive introduction to Idaho’s new aviation passport program and the unique opportunities it offers pilots seeking to explore the state’s diverse backcountry destinations. Participants will be guided on a virtual journey across Idaho, highlighting the wide range of flying experiences that challenge skills while showcasing the state’s remarkable landscapes. Drawing on local experience, the presenters will share practical insights on backcountry operations, including airport access, accommodations, and hard-earned safety lessons from flying in mountainous terrain. The seminar is designed to give visiting pilots the benefit of local knowledge—helping them plan safer, more rewarding trips into Idaho. Key topics include an overview of the Passport Program, mountain weather considerations, operational safety concerns, and a focused look at three high-traffic backcountry locations pilots are most likely to encounter.
2:30 PM | (MAINTENANCE)
3:30 PM | KEYNOTE STAGE: TBD
3:30 PM | Saving Seconds, Saving Lives: The Future of Emergency Training through Full-Motion Simulation
Brendan O’Mara, GotYourSixAviation.com
Flight simulation offers great potential for improving pilot emergency training beyond standard instrument practice. Often underutilized in flight schools, simulators provide an engaging training experience that is superior to real flying when fully utilized. Simulation challenges pilots, highlighting both their strong points and areas needing improvement, all without the risks of actual in-flight emergencies. In this presentation, Brendan explores the numerous opportunities within this technology, showing how it can be customized for any skill level or situation. He will share knowledge and strategies to make the most of simulation for your ongoing training needs, helping to develop skills and boost confidence. Move past traditional flight training limits—embrace the power of simulation to maximize your piloting abilities.
Brendan O’Mara is an experienced pilot with over 15 years in aviation. He started selling products online in 1994 and launched GotYourSixAviation.com (previously CrazedPilot.com) in 2009 to make and sell affordable aviation products to customers. They also provide products to retailers like Aircraft Spruce, Sporty’s, and Spencer Aircraft. Visit Booth #420 or GotYourSixAviation.com to see their offerings.
North Foyer | How to Get the Elephants Off of Your Air Hose
Dave Hale, Pilot Medical Solutions, Inc - LeftSeat.com
FAA Medical Certification presentation
Pioneer Room | The Original “Flying Cowboys”
How backcountry pilots in Idaho, Montana, and Washington created a new way of life
Crista V. Worthy, editor Pilot Getaways Magazine, writer Plane & Pilot, Water Flying
Most pilots have heard of Idaho’s legendary backcountry airstrips, but few know who built them, why they were created, or how they survived while so many others across the United States disappeared. In this fast-paced, unscripted slideshow featuring more than 250 historic images, aviation journalist and author Crista Worthy introduces the rugged men and women who carved airstrips out of wilderness and made a living in some of America’s last uncharted places. These backcountry pilots hauled everything their remote communities needed—mail, groceries, supplies, livestock, and more—often pushing the limits of aircraft and environment alike. With extraordinary skill and judgment, they knew exactly how to load their airplanes and precisely how much runway they needed to get in and out safely, in any weather and at any elevation. Their ingenuity and grit didn’t just keep people connected—they built a legacy that still defines backcountry flying today.
4:30 PM
KEYNOTE STAGE:
Practical importance of Weight and Balance | John Swedburg, Big Bend Community College
When learning to fly, we are taught how to work the charts and the math to figure the weight and balance, but there is far too little information in the primary sources as to why this is important. John emphasizes “when we don’t understand the ‘why’, we then tend to devalue the need for the process. John Swedburg has been an active flight instructor since 1974. In 2014 he retired from full time flight instruction at the commercial pilot flight training program at Big Bend Community College. John continues to share his love of aviation and teaching at various education events including managing and presenting at the Northwest Aviation Career Forum each year. John holds an ATP SMEL, a Commercial SES; CFI-ASME&I, A&IGI; and 107 Remote Pilot. He has over 16,000 hours of instruction given, and has taught in 58 FIRCs in the Seattle area. His aviation career has included responsibilities as a flight instructor, ground instructor, chief flight instructor, Aviation Division Chairman, Airman Certification Representative, Aviation Safety Counselor, and FAASTeam representative.
SUNDAY:
10:15 AM
Keynote Stage
How to Prepare for a Successful Flight Review
Steve Bateman, Ph.D., CFI, FAASTeam Lead Safety Representative
Flight reviews are essential to ongoing pilot proficiency and safety—but too often they’re treated as a regulatory checkbox rather than a meaningful learning opportunity. In this seminar, Steve Bateman draws on decades of experience as a certified flight instructor, FAASTeam Lead Safety Representative, and aviation educator to examine the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to preparing for your flight review. Through real-world examples, this session highlights how thoughtful preparation enhances knowledge, risk management, and practical flying skills—and why skipping this step leads to avoidable pitfalls. Steve will guide attendees through proven strategies for effective flight review preparation, with an emphasis on scenario-based training that goes beyond simply “plan the flight and fly the plan.” Whether you’re approaching your next review or conducting reviews as an instructor, you’ll leave with actionable insights to make the experience safer, more productive, and truly valuable.
South Foyer | Introduction to Aviation Careers John Swedburg, Big Bend
An engaging journey for students, parents and “new to aviation” participants through an overview of how to get from point A to point B,C, D - no matter what your aviation dreams are! Hear first hand from folks involved in the industry and learn their “how I got there” stories. Attendees will leave this session with many questions answered and many more to ask. This session will give the resources to seek the right answers to design a path that is best for your goals. (career)
Heritage Room | Pilot VFR Flying Refresher Workshop Curt Scott, Scott Consulting/Scott Aviation, pilot,
Feeling like your flying skills could use a refresher? Veteran pilot, Curt Scott will help you brush off the dust! With over 5000 hours teaching flying and flying in the Northwest, Curt’s fast-paced dynamic presentation on VFR flying basics covers weather, charts, airport approach, landing, checklists and much more to make you a more confident pilot. Scott has 30 plus years working in Aviation, with special focus on developing and delivering education programs covering Operations, Logistics, Planning, Reorganization and Training. Limited seating in this VFR Pilot refresher clinic. There is no additional charge to attend but we encourage you to register online.
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11:30 AM
Founders Room | 100 Years of Airmail, Airlines, and Commercial Aviation
Crista V. Worthy, editor Pilot Getaways Magazine, writer Plane & Pilot, Water Flying
How a Washington backcountry pilot—and the U.S. Congress—launched America’s airline industry
Even today, the airline business is challenging. A century ago, it was nearly impossible. No private companies had the capital or infrastructure to sustain commercial aviation on their own. In this fast-paced, unscripted slideshow featuring more than 250 historic images, aviation journalist and author Crista Worthy traces how commercial aviation took root in the United States exactly 100 years ago. Pioneering pilots such as Washington’s own Nick Mamer honed their skills in World War I and in the rugged Northwest backcountry, flying small aircraft and eking out a living wherever opportunity existed. Everything changed when the U.S. Congress passed landmark legislation authorizing commercial contracts to carry U.S. Air Mail. That steady revenue stream allowed the nation’s first airlines to take root, survive, and expand—giving rise to companies such as United Airlines and Northwest Airlines, and fueling a century of American aviation innovation. From Johnson Flying Service to Zimmerly Airlines, backcountry pilots based in Washington, Idaho, and Montana proved to be critical links in the chain that built the modern airline industry.
11:30 AM | Non-Towered Airport Operations – Tom Rogers , FAA Safety Team
Much has changed in recent years regarding non-towered airport operations. This presentation will discuss the current regulations and best practices published by the FAA, and review the non-towered pattern, including entries, exits, and right of way. Tom will wrap it up with his suggestions for keeping safe in a busy pattern.
11:30 | Exploring the Fascinating World of Gliding
Brad Pattison, CFI-G/ATP & Marlene Nelson, ATP & Glider Pilot. (50 minutes)
This presentation will provide an in-depth overview on entry to gliding and why you can become a better pilot by learning to fly gliders. We will highlight key topics including FAA requirements, various glider operations, local clubs and why soaring is such a blast! The sport of gliding combines the art of flying with an understanding of meteorology, making it both a scientific and adventurous pursuit.
Keynote 11:30 AM | Sipping Information from the Right Glass: Customizing your panel and EFB displays | Bruce Williams
Modern electronic instruments and EFBs can provide you a wide array of information. This presentation will help you choose where to show key details, avoid duplication of basic data, and suggest how you can rearrange the information for different phases of flight both VFR and IFR.
1:00 PM
KEYNOTE STAGE:
Stayin' Alive: Accident Case Studies
Philip Mandel, speaker, commercial, instrument, CFI
Philip will review some real-world incidents and accidents -- cases that were likely preventable by the pilots themselves. From takeoffs to enroute cruise, landings, and go-arounds, these case studies will challenge your thinking and sharpen your decision-making. Enjoy an engaging discussion of video clips and accident reports so you can make your own flying even safer.
North Foyer | Flight Testing Your Home Built/Kit Airplane
Mike “Cuckoo” Kloch, Chief Instructor Pilot, Specialized Aero Works
Learn how to properly plan for, reduce risk, and conduct the first flight, and beyond, of a home built airplane. Mike is the CEO and Chief Instructor Pilot for Specialized Aero Works, where he teaches UPRT, aerobatics, formations flying, and more. He is a contract test pilot and instructor for Stratos Aircraft, Epic Aircraft, and individual builders. Mike is a 3-time Master CFI - Aerobatic (MCFI-A), a former Marine Corps F/A-18 pilot, combat veteran, and school trained Aviation Safety Officer (Naval Postgraduate School). He is also an FAA Safety Team (FAAST) Representative.
Pioneer Room | Insights from a Designated Pilot Examiner
Catherine Cavagnaro, CFI-I, ATP, DPE, Ph.D., Owner, Ace Aerobatic School
Cavagnaro brings a rare blend of academic rigor and hands-on aviation experience to the cockpit and the classroom. She is a Professor of Mathematics, an accomplished Flight Instructor, Journalist, FAA Safety Team Representative, Aviation Safety Speaker, Designated Flight Examiner, and a contributor to a national aviation magazine. She is also a long-time member of the Cessna 150–152 Club. Catherine is best known for her work at the Ace Aerobatic School, where she and her beloved Cessna 152, “Wilbur,”spend much of their time rolling and spinning students while building confidence, precision, and sound aeronautical decision-making. As the 2020 FAA National Flight Instructor of the Year, Catherine is widely respected for her ability to translate complex aerodynamic concepts into practical, safety-focused insights. At this year’s Northwest Aviation Conference, she will be speaking on instructional insights drawn from her experience as a Designated Flight Instructor and Examiner. This appearance marks her first time speaking at the Northwest Aviation Conference, and attendees can expect an engaging, thoughtful, and safety-driven presentation grounded in real-world experience.
2:30 PM
Heritage Room | Practical importance of Weight and Balance
John Swedburg, Big Bend Community College
When learning to fly, we are taught how to work the charts and the math to figure the weight and balance, but there is far too little information in the primary sources as to why this is important. John emphasizes “when we don’t understand the ‘why’, we then tend to devalue the need for the process
The details
Driving Directions 110 9th Avenue SW Puyallup, WA 98371-0162 | Blue Gate
Hours
SAT, FEB 24, 9AM - -5:30 PM
SUN FEB 25, 10AM - 4PM
Admission $10/door | two day advance pass $15/person