DOES EXPERIENCE = EXPERTISE?

An open discussion is a great method to foster learning. Let’s examine the following hypothesis: pilot experience does not equal expertise.

Our industry places a fair bit of emphasis upon flight time as a measure of pilot competency. Perhaps we could go so far as to say that some measure of experience equals expertise? And doesn’t using flight time as a hiring metric lend credibility to this assumption?

I would like to propose that an exceptionally talented “high time” pilot, was also an exceptionally talented “low time” pilot. And while I would not argue that experience will often improve a given person’s overall competency. I would suggest that “experience” will not convert a minimally capable pilot into a superior pilot? 

Experience may lead to expertise, but only if precisely the same experience has been accomplished repeatedly, and the person receives immediate feedback. So, becoming an expert in manipulating the flight controls of a particular aircraft is certainly possible. However, becoming an expert in decision making is much more difficult; we seldom make decisions with precisely the same variables, and the feedback may not occur immediately.

As we evaluate pilots, perhaps we should shift our focus from their expertise in manipulating the flight controls, to their ability to make intelligent decisions in an ever-changing environment?

Food for thought...