This White Paper carries forward the ideas presented in the previous five White Papers from CAE-Emirates published last year, which outlined the main ideas and concepts to enable the pilot training framework of tomorrow. This second series of Papers focuses on the subject of “Continuous Professional Development (CPD)” for Pilots. Over the next few months, we will address how the Pilot Profession can start following the best practices for CPD, based on how it's being done in other industries and disciplines. A framework for CPD will be suggested as well as Learning and Development activities that support CPD. We will introduce readers to the topic of “Scenario-Based Training,” as well as how “Continuous Recurrent Training (CRT)” is envisioned as a step-change in the way that Pilots will learn and develop in the future.

The Need for Evolution in Pilot Training

The first White Paper in this series discusses the evolution of flight training programs and the need for continuous professional development (CPD) for pilots. It highlights how the role of pilots has shifted from manual control to monitoring aircraft systems due to technological advancements. This shift requires new competencies related to Non-Technical Skills (NTS), necessitating a change in learning methods.

The current mindset in pilot training is focused on achieving and maintaining standards, with little emphasis on improvement. The White Paper suggests that this perspective is more beneficial for the organization than the individual. The transition towards Continuous Recurrent Training, which is more flexible and personalized, could be a significant driver for change in future pilot training.

From 'Compliance' to 'Competence'

The authors advocate for a shift in aviation training towards ‘continuous development’, moving from compliance-based training to competence-based training. This would involve individualized training goals and a focus on what the trainee can deliver rather than what they can absorb.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is defined as an ongoing and planned learning and development process. It includes academic study, mentoring, instructing, involvement in professional bodies, practicing specialist skills, giving presentations, and other forms of volunteering.

Adopting Best Practices from Other Disciplines

The White Paper proposes a process for CPD, inspired by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which includes planning, doing, recording, and reviewing learning activities. It also suggests individual enablers for effective CPD, such as staying curious, allocating regular time for learning, accepting feedback, reflecting and applying learning, and embracing challenges.

Summary and Conclusion

In conclusion, this White Paper emphasizes the importance of CPD for pilots to prepare for future challenges and continuously improve their skills and knowledge. It argues that learning has no limits and those embracing CPD will benefit Pilots significantly.