VyClimb has announced that its founder, Michael Benton, has been appointed as an Ambassador for the Fred North Helicopter Safety Mentoring Programme. Benton is a highly accomplished and respected helicopter pilot with extensive experience in air medical transport.
Founded by renowned helicopter aerial cinematography and stunt pilot Fred North, this prestigious programme is dedicated to enhancing safety standards within the global helicopter community.
The programme achieves this by connecting experienced pilots with those seeking guidance and fostering a supportive environment where aviators of all levels can learn and grow. Within the programme, mentors and mentees work to build a trusting bond so that mentees can open up about their concerns and share challenges in an educational and judgement-free safe space. As an Ambassador, Benton will focus on recruiting and vetting experienced pilots within his specialisation to serve as mentors, ensuring a diverse and highly qualified network of mentors is available to guide the next generation of helicopter pilots. Additionally, he will continue to serve as a mentor specialising in safety and air medical transport within the programme.
Speaking about his appointment, Benton said: “I am honoured that my passion for mentoring, education, and safety has been recognised by Fred’s invitation to join this group of professionals with so much experience. Like Fred, I have learned through years of experience in this industry and want the next generation of pilots to benefit from my successes and failures. Mentors were critical in my journey, and I want to keep that transfer of knowledge alive.”
Image: VyClimb
