Modern pilot training efforts fly in to the honours

The meritorious duty of Squadron Leader Scott van Ginkel has shaped the advancement of a modern and dynamic Pilot Training System, creating a new approach for the preparation of ADF pilots.

CAPTION: Squadron Leader Scott van Ginkel is an honourable recipient from Air Force Training Group of the Medal of the Order of Australia. Story by Aircraftwoman Olivia Tiele.

Squadron Leader van Ginkel has received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his commitment to the implementation of contemporary pilot training. His career has been contoured by many adventures and exciting opportunities, which has led him to his current position as the Standards Flight Commander at No. 1 Flying Training School, RAAF Base East Sale.

“It is very humbling to be appreciated for the job you do,” Squadron Leader van Ginkel said.

“I am still coming to terms as to why I have been singled out, with so many others having contributed to the success of the new Pilot Training System.”

His superior efforts have been instrumental to the establishment of a modern Pilot Training System for ADF pilots and qualified flying instructors.

He has played a critical role in overseeing the progression and implementation of significant advancements under Project AIR 5428, through the superb use of limited resources.

“The introduction of the new Pilot Training System has been a challenging task that has resulted in a paradigm shift in the way pilots are trained in the Australian Defence Force,” Squadron Leader van Ginkel said.

“In some ways I feel like I am accepting this award on behalf of all those who have been involved with the development and implementation of the Pilot Training System.

“Receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia for doing something I enjoy has come as a surprise and it is still sinking in.

“When you enjoy what you do and can see the purpose in it, it doesn’t feel like a job.”

Squadron Leader van Ginkel joined the RAAF in January 1995 from Geelong and grasped each adventure that has arisen, with highlights found in each corner of his career.

“I have been fortunate to see a lot of Australia and the world throughout my career, particularly flying the C-130J and then again with the introduction of the Pilot Training System,” he said.

“There are so many highlights, it is hard to narrow it down.

“The thrill for flying started when I was young, I had wanted to be a pilot ever since I first travelled on an aircraft as a kid.”

The dedication and duty of Squadron Leader van Ginkel in his contributions to crafting tailored pilot training is honourable and treasured by the wider Air Force.

“It has been a privilege to be involved and I would like to thank all those people that I have worked with, both within Defence and Industry, who have made valuable contributions and this award possible. Thank you,” he said.

Squadron Leader van Ginkel’s dedication and altruistic leadership of qualified flying instructors has shaped the integration of the PC-21 training aircraft and its associated flight simulation facilities.

His efforts and determination have been paramount to leading the RAAF towards a training system that readily prepares aircrew who will operate in the Air Force.

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