Brian Udell

Brian Udell began flying at a young age, taking to the skies solo at 16, and earning his Private Pilots Certificate by 17. Since then, he has accrued over 23,000 hours of flight time in a range of civil and military aircraft. In 1989, Udell was one among the select 60 candidates to join the elite Euro-NATO Joint Pilot Training program, where he graduated at the top of his class and received the Air Training Command - Commanders Trophy.

Udell was part of the initial selection of Lieutenants chosen to fly the F-15E Strike Eagle, an experience that culminated in his graduation from Strike Eagle training with the highest academic award, boasting a near-perfect overall average of 99.8%. Following this, Udell honed his skills in operational units, becoming an Instructor, Mission Commander, and earning the title of Air to Ground Top-Gun winner. His experience further stretches to over 100 combat missions in Southwest Asia, logging close to 2000 hours in the Strike Eagle.

For his service in combat missions over Iraq, Udell was honored with the Air Medal, accompanied by 4 oak leaf clusters, and the Aerial Achievement Medal, supported by three oak leaf clusters. Udell's military career spanned a decade.

After departing from the Air Force in 1999, Udell transitioned into the commercial flight sector and currently holds the position of Captain with Southwest Airlines. Apart from his work in the commercial sector, Udell is a Competition Aerobatic and Back-country Pilot. He also brings his wealth of experience to public speaking, operating as a motivational and inspirational Speaker.