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Agenda
Ascend Flight Training Summit
September 8–10, 2026
Dallas, Texas
The Ascend Flight Training Summit is intentionally designed to support the full pilot training pipeline. Programming is organized across three primary attendee tracks—Student Pilots, Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), and Flight School Owners & Leadership—with shared sessions and experiences that bring the entire aviation training community together.
The information below reflects the framework for Ascend’s educational programming. Detailed session titles, speakers, and schedules will be announced as
programming is finalized.
How Ascend Is Structured
Programming Overview
Ascend features a multi-day agenda combining structured education, hands-on development, and career-focused experiences. Attendees will participate in both
track-specific sessions and cross-track programming designed to encourage collaboration, mentorship, and shared learning.
Programming will include:
- Classroom-based education
- Interactive workshops and development labs
- Professional and leadership development sessions
- Career readiness and networking opportunities
- Industry engagement through the exhibit hall
Student Pilot Programming
The Student Pilot track is designed to support individuals at the early stages of flight training through those preparing to enter professional aviation pathways.
Programming will focus on:
- Building a strong foundation in flight training and professionalism
- Understanding the progression from student to instructor and beyond
- Career exploration across aviation paths
- Resume, interview, and communication preparation
- Mentorship and networking with instructors and industry professionals
This track emphasizes clarity, confidence, and preparation for the next phase of training and career development.
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Programming
The CFI track centers on instructional excellence, professional growth, and long-term career sustainability.
Programming will include:
- Instructional best practices and teaching techniques
- Safety, standardization, and training quality
- Professional development and leadership readiness
- Career advancement opportunities within instruction and aviation
- Mentorship and peer collaboration
NAFI’s instructional expertise plays a foundational role in shaping this track, ensuring content that supports both new and experienced instructors.
Flight School Owners & Leadership Programming
This track is designed for flight school owners, operators, and leadership teams focused on building strong, sustainable training organizations.
Programming will address:
- Business operations and growth strategy
- Instructor recruitment, retention, and development
- Training quality and standardization at scale
- Operational challenges and industry trends
- Leadership development and organizational culture
Sessions in this track emphasize practical insight, peer collaboration, and forward-looking strategy.
Welcome Reception
Ascend will open with a Welcome Reception on September 8, 2026, at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. This event provides an opportunity for attendees, speakers, partners, and exhibitors to connect in a relaxed, community-focused setting before educational programming begins.
Expert-Led & Credible
Call for Speakers
Ascend is currently accepting speaker submissions across all three attendee tracks.
We are seeking experienced educators, instructors, operators, and industry professionals who are passionate about advancing aviation training through education, mentorship, and collaboration.
Speaker topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Instructional excellence and training methodology
- Student and instructor development
- Flight school operations and leadership
- Career pathways and workforce development
- Safety, professionalism, and best practices
Speaker submission details will be announced soon.
Agenda Updates
The full agenda, including session titles, speakers, and detailed schedules, will be released in phases leading up to the event.
To receive updates on programming announcements and speaker opportunities: