Karl was a teenager. The Italians set the international altitude record of 56,046 feet. Modified versions of existing aircraft have attempted to break the 1938 record. No one has succeeded.
Now, Karl Bergey at age 93 leads the charge to design and build a small aircraft that will reach an altitude of 60,000 feet, well above the 54,046 feet record. The cooperative project has Bergey Aerospace Company and The University of Oklahoma School of Aerospace Engineering working together. The race is on.
Yes, Karl Bergey is an expert in small aircraft design. It all started at age five as he built model airplanes. It’s his passion. But a world record at 93. Really?
Here’s a brief interview (1:40) with this aviation expert who still pursues his dream.
Why not disrupt the Story?
Karl and his team intend to disrupt the aviation industry. Yes, at 93 he challenges his goal. Takes a risk. Karl commits to creating something new to break the world record.
Now, shift to leadership development. What’s it going to take for you to go to your next level? How will you engage a process of change to expand your personal influence? How will you disrupt unproductive behavior, thinking, and habits to grow as a leader, to become a better person?
Creating space for reflection
This 93-year-old-leader enlarged his team to include university students. Who will help you? His passion drives how he is living life. He aims to break a world record.
- Who do you need on your team to help you succeed?
- How is passion energizing your work?
- What’s different because you are here, leading, on the team?
- What’s your goal this year?
It’s not too late.
Here’s to your Next Level,
Steve
Image credit: http://www.thisdayinaviation.com/11-april-1934/
Video: Oklahoma Aviation Expert aims to break World Record at age 93 from The Oklahoma 100 on Vimeo.