About YourChiefPilot


Glad you stopped in to learn more about YourChiefPilot... Let's get started!

My name is Eric Byrd and I'm located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, part of the Greater Nashville area. At the age of nine, I experienced the joy of flight for the first time on a trip with my family. I was fascinated. Instantly, my interest and passion became aviation, as a pilot in particular. That first flight inspired me to become a pilot, and still contributes to my love for aviation.

In 2007, I began my studies in aerospace, with a concentration of 'Professional Pilot,' at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro. A few semesters later, I began flight training at MTSU's Part 141-certified flight school and on August 4, 2009, obtained my Private Pilot certificate and Instrument Airplane rating. I started working on my Commercial certificate immediately after, and on December 21st of that same year, passed my check-ride. I continued on to obtain my Multi-Engine rating in August of 2010, and am currently pursuing a MEII (multi-engine instructor with instrument privileges).

I joined Alpha Eta Rho, an International Aviation Business Fraternity, which focuses on providing networking, collaboration, and career advancement opportunities. I became Historian for the Mu Tau Chapter, and was responsible for various duties including communication, public relations, and maintaining our image with historic preservation tasks.

During the semester-long capstone course for pilots at MTSU, I achieved the status of 'Captain.' Responsibilities, including commercial operations, systems knowledge, cockpit procedures, and aircraft operations came with the title. In Crew Resource Management training, I performed duties of 'First Officer' in MTSU's Boeing 727 simulator, including crew procedures, risk management and aeronautical decision making, and cabin control and safety.

Now, I'm working on becoming YourChiefPilot! I created YourChiefPilot as an effort to increase visibility, build a professional network, and provide an enhanced presentation to potential employers. Beyond flying, I enjoy things such as cars, boating, football, gardening, cooking, and my dog. As a tech-junkie, I keep track of the latest news, current events, and social media.

Now you've learned a little about who I am! You'll also find more content throughout the pages of this site that will explain why I should be... YourChiefPilot!

-YourChiefPilot, Eric Byrd