What is your definition of a strong leader? On Aug. 27, 2020, HAI President and CEO James Viola and panelists Tim Tucker, instructor at Robinson Helicopter Company; Bruce Webb, director of aviation education at Airbus; and Jan Becker, CEO of Becker Helicopters Pilot Academy, gave us the 411 on what it takes to be an exceptional leader and mentor, debunking the myth that you have to be a supervisor or manager to lead. According to our panelists, being a leader means that you’re willing to be vulnerable, open, and honest, sharing your errors so others can learn from your mistakes. Most importantly, being a leader isn’t a popularity contest; it requires you to have the ability to say no and stand up for what’s right—even if you’re in the minority.