First lady of checkrides
Carol Joyner: Teacher turned DPE
By Geri Silveira
Carol Joyner didn’t start out to be a designated pilot examiner. In fact, she didn’t start out to be a pilot at all. However, since she became a DPE 24 years ago, Joyner has given more than 2,500 checkrides and counting. She averages 100-plus rides a year.
After earning her degree in education, Joyner moved to Pomona, California, to start her career. Soon after, she met her future husband, Bill, a private pilot. Her life’s work was going to change from teaching junior high schoolers to instructing student pilots.
In 1977, the couple purchased a Cessna Turbo 210, the family aircraft they flew to visit relatives and took on ski trips. At Bill’s suggestion, Joyner took a Pinch-Hitter course. “I was immediately hooked on flying,” she says. That same year, she earned her private pilot certificate. Her commercial certificate, instrument, and multiengine ratings followed quickly. Encouraged by a fellow pilot, Joyner added flight instructor certificates. With two young sons to care for, Joyner instructed part time, and in the early 1990s, the FAA appointed her a safety counselor. In 1996, Joyner became a designated pilot examiner.
Her main territory is Los Angeles, but in 2016, Joyner spent time in Florida and arranged to give checkrides there. “The Florida flying environment is very different from Los Angeles. The climate is more humid; it’s at sea level—no mountains—and there’s lots of water.”
With so many checkrides under her seatbelt, Joyner isn’t surprised by anything an applicant does. “Two of them got me into spins. We recovered fine, because I’m still here,” she laughs.
As an experienced DPE, Joyner has this advice: “I tell my applicants the checkride is only a second opinion. Your instructor wouldn’t have recommended you if they didn’t think you were ready.” She spends a lot of time with each applicant, helping them to feel comfortable. If an applicant does fail, she never lets them leave until they fully understand what they need to do to pass.
People often ask Joyner why she didn’t fly for the airlines. “I never wanted to be an airline pilot. My goal is to help applicants achieve their dreams. I want to be a part of their success. And that’s what I find most satisfying about my job.”
Geri Silveira is a commercial pilot with more than 5,000 hours.
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