About this episode
John Alvarez is a member of the Air Commando Hall of Fame and the first aviator in US history to be restored to full combat flying status after losing his leg during combat. I first met him when we were young Ensigns in the Navy, he was in Primary Flight Training and I was on my way to starting flight school. His story is fascinating and involves a host of different players to include Ross Perot, a USMC Drill Instructor, friends and a loving family. It also comes with several lessons: With high performing teams you need to be aware of the competitive environment Recognizing your teammates skills, strengths and weaknesses is crucial to success Military training from Day 1 is brutal and designed for high stakes situations, but it can save your life Dealing with a disability can positively impact you and your outlook on life. It teaches you that you can withstand much more than you think you can. Learn More About Your Host: Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior level leadership, sales and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well known aircraft OEM’s, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers. Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity, and hit the business goals of the companies he serves. Call-to-Action - For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw . To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/ .