Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, Jack Schonely, Tony Webber and Jon Gray sit back down for a full-length interview with L.A. County Fire Pilot and 2024 HAI Pilot of the Year award recipient Mike Sagely.

We cover a wide range of topics, from the profound impact a career in aviation can have on family life and mental health to the importance of mentorship and preparation for success.

Join us as Mike shares his journey from serving as a U.S. Army pilot during a pivotal time in history to navigating the challenges of modern aviation. He reflects on the transition from the Vietnam War era to flying iconic helicopters like the Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk and Boeing AH-64 Apache, and discusses his selection process for the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR) along with the rigorous training and deployments that defined his military career.

We also delve into the realities faced by military and public safety personnel in maintaining strong family units amidst the demands of their roles and the stresses of the job. Mike provides invaluable insights on transitioning from service to civilian life and working as a pilot for the L.A. County Fire Department, detailing the diverse missions they undertake, including rescues and firefighting operations.

We wrap up with a compelling discussion on the critical importance of aircraft maintenance in firefighting and the strategic role of heli-tac crews. Mike concludes with advice for aspiring aviators, emphasizing the values of integrity, reputation, and professional training.

Thanks to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, Collins Aerospace and Wysong Enterprises.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

This two-part series was recorded at the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department hangar at San Bernardino International Airport in California.

The conversation unfolds as we talk about their recent acquisition of the new Bell 412 EPX helicopter.

Our guests, Sgt Jon Anderson, Deputy Doug Brimmer, and recently retired Lt now Reserve Deputy Pilot Danny Futscher, share their rich backgrounds in law enforcement and aviation, drawing inspiration from family legacies that have shaped their careers.

Together, they discuss the process of transitioning to the new helicopter, highlighting its benefits for their mission sets.

Doug Brimmer shines a light on the department's historical society, emphasizing the importance of preserving law enforcement artifacts that tell the story of their dedicated service. The size and diversity of San Bernardino County come into focus, revealing how these factors uniquely impact their operations and response strategies.

Insights from this conversation highlight their aviation program's logistics, from fueling helicopters to building essential partnerships with other agencies. They share the value of having sworn pilots and the challenges faced in their recruitment efforts, all while navigating the varied geographic landscapes and extreme weather conditions of the region.

This episode is a captivating blend of adventure, professionalism, and the personal stories that make up the fabric of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Aviation Unit.

Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Technisonic and Precision Aviation Group

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

This two-part series was recorded at the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department hangar at San Bernardino International Airport in California.

The conversation unfolds as we talk about their recent acquisition of the new Bell 412 EPX helicopter.

Our guests, Sgt Jon Anderson, Deputy Doug Brimmer, and recently retired Lt now Reserve Deputy Pilot Danny Futscher, share their rich backgrounds in law enforcement and aviation, drawing inspiration from family legacies that have shaped their careers.

Together, they discuss the process of transitioning to the new helicopter, highlighting its benefits for their mission sets.

Doug Brimmer shines a light on the department's historical society, emphasizing the importance of preserving law enforcement artifacts that tell the story of their dedicated service. The size and diversity of San Bernardino County come into focus, revealing how these factors uniquely impact their operations and response strategies.

Insights from this conversation highlight their aviation program's logistics, from fueling helicopters to building essential partnerships with other agencies. They share the value of having sworn pilots and the challenges faced in their recruitment efforts, all while navigating the varied geographic landscapes and extreme weather conditions of the region.

This episode is a captivating blend of adventure, professionalism, and the personal stories that make up the fabric of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Aviation Unit.

Thank you to our sponsors Bell, SHOTOVER and Metro Aviation.