New Year's Message from SFTE President Jeff Canclini

Happy New Year, fellow flight testers!

As we enter 2026, the flight test world remains an exciting—and demanding—environment. Technical complexity, ambitious schedules, evolving organizations, and the desire to improve our skills while maintaining a healthy work-life balance remain ever-present challenges.



From my interactions, I know some of you are heads down, focused on delivering safe, effective testing in high-pressure programs. Others are hoping to break into flight test, exploring how to realize their dreams. Many are looking for the next step—new roles, broader networks, and better tools. And for some, the pace feels relentless: swamped, frustrated, and searching for help, ideas, or renewed energy. Just as important, many of us want more camaraderie—time with fellow flight testers to learn, share stories, pass on lessons, and enjoy the profession we’ve chosen.


SFTE is a strong partner across all of these paths. Our 2026 offerings include global symposia, webinars, forums, mentoring, STEM outreach, and local chapter events. Together, they offer outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and recharge professionally. Check out the SFTE website, where you can find a growing set of programs, councils, and resources designed to elevate your professional skills and expand your network.



Elevating professional standards for Flight Test Engineers remains a central focus of my presidency, with continued advocacy for all flight test organizations to adopt SFTE’s Recommended Practices. In that vein, I am excited to announce that Empire Test Pilot School has generously sponsored a new scholarship to attend one of its short courses.



I have truly enjoyed meeting and interacting with many of you during my travels to companies and SFTE chapters, and I look forward to continuing those conversations in the year ahead.

SFTE is a volunteer organization, and your involvement truly matters. Whether you contribute by mentoring, sharing expertise, organizing events, or simply engaging with fellow members, you help shape the strength and future of our profession. I welcome your thoughts, and I wish you a safe, rewarding, and fulfilling New Year in flight test.

Jeff