Advanced Air Force Engineering Skills for Everyday Applications with Dean "GOGS" Valentini

Plane Success

In this episode, Dean "GOGS" Valentini takes us on his journey from accidental career choices to intentional financial freedom. Learn how his disciplined mindset and resilience have guided him through numerous challenges, and gain insights on how you can achieve financial freedom and success in your own career.

Key takeaways to listen for

• What is the role of a flight test engineer in the US Air Force?
• Benefits of having a clear vision and goals in achieving financial freedom
• Challenges and rewards of transitioning from military to civilian life
• Strategies for maintaining motivation and resilience in the face of failure
• The value of accountability and intentionality in personal growth and career success

Resources

• U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
• BiggerPockets
• VA Home Loan Program
• The House Hacking Strategy by Craig Curelop | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle
• Vivid Vision by Cameron Herold | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle
• SpaceX
• Empire Test Pilots School
• Lockheed Martin
• Raytheon Technologies
• Northrop Grumman

About Dean "GOGS" Valentini

Dean "GOGS" Valentini is a Computer Engineer and Experimental Flight Test Engineer with the United States Air Force. He currently serves as Chief of Test for a rapid acquisition squadron in Denver, Colorado. Leading a team of test professionals, he manages the planning and execution of diverse programs, delivering urgent solutions for the warfighter in weeks.

A graduate of the USAF Test Pilot School, Dean has eight years of experience in both Developmental and Operational Tests. He holds a B.S. in Computer Engineering and an M.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Rhode Island. His notable project involved the first-ever flight test of an advanced machine-learning algorithm for RF systems.

In his personal time, Dean is a health and fitness enthusiast, passionate about leadership and growth, and a blockchain and gaming nerd. He is also an aspiring real estate investor, avid outdoorsman, and traveler, often accompanied by his Australian Shepherd mix, Bulleit.

Connect with Dean

• LinkedIn: Dean "GOGS" Valentini

Connect with Us

• Website: Angel Flight West
• LinkedIn: Alan Underwood
• YouTube: Plane Success
• Instagram: @thealanunderwood
• Facebook: Alan Underwood