In this episode of the James Spearman Show, retired Air Force fighter pilot but still mechanic consultant for the Air Force, Ben Bosma his remarkable journey in aviation, from his early inspirations to his extensive career in military aviation and aerospace innovation. Today’s episode is a shorter one that’ll be of serious enjoyment to all pilots and aviators interested in the mechanics and innovations from someone who's patented and invented. He discusses his experiences as an inventor, his patents in autonomous systems, and his vision for the future of hybrid aviation. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing the aviation industry, the importance of modernizing manufacturing processes, and the potential of electric and hybrid propulsion systems.TakeawaysBen's journey into aviation began with a congressional representative's encouragement.He has over 7,000 flight hours and has owned nine airplanes.Ben's first patent was obtained in 1993, showcasing his innovative spirit.He played a key role in developing autonomous aircraft for the Air Force.Ben emphasizes the need for modernization in aviation manufacturing.He holds patents on hybrid engines and distributed electric propulsion.Ben believes that hybrid aviation will be the future of flight.He advocates for reducing the cost of entry into aviation for new pilots.Ben's work includes innovations in air refueling for unmanned systems.He is passionate about developing technologies that benefit the warfighter. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Aviation Stories00:52 – Meet Ben Bosma: Fighter Pilot, Engineer, Inventor01:28 – From Ohio to the Air Force Academy02:03 – Gliders, Sullenberger & the Soaring Spark03:02 – Flight Instructing, Inventions, and Guard Duty04:20 – Aerospace Innovation and First Patents05:07 – Low Observable Projects and Return to Duty06:07 – Autonomous Aircraft with Spragg Clutch Tech07:20 – Hybrid Propulsion Concepts and Electric Motor Limitations09:04 – Rethinking EVTOLs and Battery-Powered Aircraft10:09 – Serial vs. Parallel Hybrids in Aviation11:13 – Ben’s Plan for Turboprop Hybrids12:04 – Inventing Autonomous Air Refueling14:03 – Building a Dream Team for Innovation15:15 – Challenges in Military Procurement17:00 – Reducing Cost of Entry into Aviation18:19 – Closing Thoughts on Innovation & AccessibilityAs always, a heartfelt thank you to our guest, Ben Bosma, for joining us and offering such a rich and inventive perspective on the future of aviation—from autonomous systems to hybrid propulsion and beyond.Be sure to connect with Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aerovation/If you’re curious to explore more of Ben’s groundbreaking work, stay tuned—his innovations in air refueling, hybrid propulsion, and aviation manufacturing are just getting started.Want to learn more about aviation? Check out our website⁠https://www.spearmanaircraft.com/⁠Or follow us in your favorite channelhttps://www.facebook.com/spearmanaircraft/https://www.instagram.com/thejamesspearman/https://www.youtube.com/@TheJamesSpearman

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