The COTAcast EP. 62 - Tirana to Kenndy ft. Michael Meminaj
In this episode, we talk with Michael Meminaj, a former professional basketball player from Albania whose journey has taken him from a small town near Tirana to the fast-paced streets of Queens, NY. Now a thriving Uber driver navigating one of the world’s busiest cities, Mike is also pursuing his passion for aviation maintenance—a field where he’s determined to make his mark.
We explore his inspiring transition from athlete to aviation enthusiast, his early days studying aircraft systems, and how the grit he learned on the court now fuels his drive to succeed in aviation. Whether you’re an industry veteran or someone just starting to chase their aviation dreams, Mike’s story reminds us that no matter where you start, it’s all about the climb.
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1:00:20
The COTAcast EP. 61 - The Maintenance Myth ft. Cassem Stephenson
From student to standout: Aviation maintenance engineering and beyond. In this episode, we catch up with my former A-student and Vaughn College Aerospace Maintenance Competition team captain, Cassem Stephenson, as he shares his journey from Vaughn College to JetBlue's engineering team. We dive into his unique career path, the versatility of FAA Airframe & Powerplant licenses, and the untapped opportunities beyond line maintenance. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore all the possibilities in aviation maintenance.
This Thanksgiving, host Brian Bermudez uncovers the untold sacrifices of line mechanics who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep holiday travel safe. From freezing tarmacs to critical last-minute repairs, discover the challenges, resilience, and pride of these unsung heroes. Tune in and see holiday travel through their eyes.
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15:34
The CotAcasT EP. 58 - The Cost of Compromise
Join us as we unpack the recent Boeing strike and its powerful implications for workers, wages, and the aerospace industry. After seven weeks on strike, machinists secured a substantial pay raise but faced a setback on retirement benefits. What does this “partial victory” mean for future negotiations, and how does it shape Boeing's responsibility to balance profit with employee welfare? We’ll explore these pressing questions, revealing the deeper tensions between corporate priorities and worker rights in today’s shifting labor landscape
Listen each Thursday to the aviation podcast for industry experts and curious enthusiasts alike. The CotAcasT brings you the latest breaking news, in-depth industry studies, and educational insights from the untold world of aviation. Hosted by aviation mechanic and Professor Brian Bermudez.
Visit - www.craftoftheair.com - for your tailored aviation training or consulting experience.