115Q&A, 2025/2026. 100%.
How would you define CRM and it's importance?
the effective use of all available resources for flight crew personnel to assure a safe and efficient
operation, reducing error, avoiding stress and increasing efficiency
Do you have any checkride failures to include oral, written, or stage checks?
Yes, I failed my Commercial 1 stage check and more recently, failed my CFI final stage check.
Commercial- 8's on (wrong direction, got confused) CFI- (normal landing, hit point, did not teach/ do
wing low method).
How did you hear about Republic?
My CMEAD instructor recommended your cadet program. He is awaiting a class date now.
Explain a time where you had a disagreement with someone you shared the cockpit with (CFI,
crew, etc).
I can recall a few instances with an instructor where we were cleared to land over 5 miles out from
the airport where my instructor was certain they did not clear us. Though I believed I was right, we
asked anyway and affirmed our clearance.
Why do you want to work for Republic?
Airplanes, Crew Bases, Safety Record, no Junior Manning
What personal skills/traits do you possess (not education or training) that would make you a good
First Officer?
Personable, cooperative, patient
Tell me 2 traits that describe you and how they relate to a first officer role?
I'm very much a team player and comfortable with being delegated duties and being assigned
discrete tasks as part of a mission-oriented team. Having said that, if something doesn't seem right I
have no problem requesting clarification and the reasoning behind the assigned task.
Where is the Republic headquarters located?
Indianapolis, IN
What are three qualities of a good FO that you embody?
I use aviation decision making to assess risk and determine the appropriate course of actions. I am a
good communicator and not afraid to ask questions or point out safety concerns. I care about the
comfort and safety of customers we fly and about the company I work for.
Why do you want to be part of the cadet program?
It's a well-defined path to an airline career.
, Tell us about yourself?
My name is Garrett Watkins, I was born and raised in El Dorado Hills, CA (near Sacramento). I was
lucky enough to grow up with my two parents, sister, and at one time 3 dogs. I've had a love for
snow and water sports and fitness is still a huge part of my life. After high school I chose to attend
the University Of Oregon, an incredible school surrounded by some of the most amazing scenery I
have ever seen. Truly, if you haven't been to the Willamette valley, please make a special trip out
there. I am of the first generation in my family to graduate university and the first pilot in my family
since my great uncle John who flew a B24 in WW2. We uncovered his photos when I was about 16
and it really opened my eyes to the world of aviation. I took a discovery flight at the local airport, but
just wasn't quite ready to commit to aviation. I figured perhaps I would pursue it later in life as a
hobby. Throughout my college career it kept entering the forefront of my mind. Covid swiftly shut
that idea down initially, then, rightfully so, my parents, encouraging me to finish University first. By
the time I graduated I knew this was the path I wanted. I have a deep passion for travel, and as the
grown up kid who stills takes the window seat on every commercial flight I can say this truly is my
dream job.
How did you get interested in aviation?
Great uncle john's story and photos (never met) career report junior year of high school and got to
meet with airline pilots at a career fair tie-in
What is your total time?
237
What do you expect to get from the Cadet program?
Ideally I would like to get my foot in the door at Republic so that way I can become a first officer
once I reach my ATP minimums.
What are three reasons you chose the Republic cadet program, that are SPECIFIC and unique to
their cadet program?
Republic's family values, superior base locations (in my opinion), no junior manning, support system
Tell me a time you had a fallout with a fellow pilot
Early stages of private I determined that a classmate of mine was not my cup of tea. I found he had
an ego, and was difficult to get along with. I remained cordial, still say hello and ask how he is doing
when I see him.
How would I handle a difficult crew member?
Address the issue with the crew member. I would remain respectful and professional. I would
mitigate the issue with the crew member and keep their view point in mind. I would come up with a
solution to the issue that we can both agree on. I would know when it is necessary to escalate the
issue to HR.
What does at pilots discretion mean?
ATC has offered the pilot the option to start the climb or descent whenever the pilot wishes and
authorized the pilot to climb or descent at any rate.
Tell about a time you had to make a quick decision.