Theoretical knowledge publisher, Padpilot, has appointed former Head of Learning and Development Nathan Gray as chief executive officer.
Nathan, who joined the company in September 2023 after a career in the Royal Navy which included time as F-35 test pilot and instructor, takes on the role with immediate effect.
Padpilot Director, Graham Cownie, co-founder and outgoing CEO said: “The board is in complete agreement that there couldn’t be a better leader to take Padpilot into the future. Nathan’s vast experience and dynamic perspective on the direction of pilot education, and the new technologies the team is working on, means the next couple of years will probably be the most exciting time in Padpilot’s history.”
Gray is an experienced test pilot, fighter pilot, and fast jet flying instructor. He was recruited to the F-35 stealth jet development program and conducted the first-ever F-35 launch and recovery on HMS Queen Elizabeth in 2018.
Gray said: “It’s an honour to lead Padpilot. Since joining the team I’ve been impressed with their unwavering pursuit of excellence. Padpilot’s mission has always been to leverage technological advancements to deliver cutting-edge educational materials for the aviation industry, and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”
“At this time of growth in trainee pilot numbers, we will continue to focus on equipping them with the optimal foundational knowledge as they prepare for their future careers. This learning is not just for the regulatory exams, it’s for life – the best aviators never stop building their knowledge, skills and attitudes.”
“Padpilot is proud to supply theoretical knowledge resources to some of the world’s leading pilot training organisations and we will continue to deliver real benefits for our partner schools. We’re currently working on some exciting new AI-driven resources and looking forward to sharing more with our customers soon.”
Outgoing CEO and Director, Graham Cownie, remains an active part of the Padpilot development team.
