Lt. Col. William Pope, 96th Flying Training Squadron director of operations, talks with a member of the flightline management team at Laughlin Air Force Base, Del Rio, Texas. Pope, who took an unusual path into the pilot’s seat, continues to actively learn about his craft from his many experienced teammates at Laughlin, which enables him to excel as a student advisor and mentor. (U.S. Air Force photo by Debbie Gildea)