MedAire Recruits Aviation Professionals To Support Peers

MedAire is seeking volunteer pilots, flight attendants, and maintenance technicians willing to help others in the industry deal with some of the challenges their jobs can pose. In February, the company will launch a series of training courses for the Peer Supporter program it runs as part of its mental health initiative.

The risk-management specialist launched Peer Supporter in partnership with wellbeing group OdiliaClark in 2024. The program gives aviation professionals an outlet to speak confidentially with peers and share concerns over their experiences and the problems they face.

MedAire is building a global network of professionals willing to provide guidance and support others across the aviation industry. The basis for the program is that they know better than anyone about challenges such as unpredictable schedules, time away from loved ones, high-pressure situations, and heavy responsibilities.

The next series of training courses will be held on February 23 and 24 at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, and February 26 in Phoenix at MedAire’s headquarters. Before the in-person training sessions, volunteers complete four hours of e-learning through the OdiliaClark training academy to prepare them to support peers. During the main sessions, participants discuss anticipated scenarios and practice potentially difficult conversations. 

After gaining Peer Supporter certification, volunteers are supported through regular supervision and recurrent training. They can stay in contact with other supporters and mental health professionals arranged by MedAire.