The Hidden Job That Keeps Fighter Jets Flying

In this episode of The Aerpod, host Mitchell Banks talks with Julia Rivera, a former KC-10 boom operator and flight engineer whose career bridges both manned and unmanned operations. Julia shares how she found aviation through family influence, why she chose the enlisted route, and what it was like training on one of the most capable refueling platforms ever built.

She breaks down the debate around reducing cockpit crews and human-factors risks behind proposed single-pilot airline operations. Julia offers an inside look at modern ISR and remotely-piloted aircraft, describing how crewed UAS missions work, how “no-blink” 24-hour operations are planned, and why complacency is one of the biggest threats in both manned and unmanned aviation.

Finally, Julia discusses how military aviation opened doors to Princeton, the University of Pennsylvania, and her current master’s work in national security policy at Duke. She offers practical advice for veterans, aspiring aviators, and anyone considering a career in the U.S. Armed Forces.