Aviation has struggled for years to recruit and retain pilots, mechanics and others, despite the allure of participating in a vital industry moving millions of passengers and tons of cargo safely every day. In this edition of Update-1, NPC Broadcast/Podcast co-chair Adam Konowe speaks with Justin Ellixson-Andrews, executive director of the National Gay Pilots Association, which represents aviators and other like-minded professionals and enthusiasts from the LGBTQ+ community. Topics covered include the organization’s founding, current services offered, advocacy strategy including events, DEI-related challenges in an increasingly polarized political climate, as well as the opportunity to attract and retain a new generation of aviators.