Volunteer at National SAFECON 2024

Judge Survival Guide

We’re glad you’re considering being a NIFA judge. The position comes with a fair amount of responsibility, as well as a few benefits. Not only will you help oversee the administration of the NIFA rulebook during competitions, but you’ll interact and connect with students and peers in the aviation industry, and potentially make lifelong friends.

First and foremost, the most important implement in a judge’s toolkit is a sense of and dedication to fairness, followed closely by sunscreen, layered clothing, and a good pair of boots! The hours can be long – oftentimes you’ll be at the airport before the competitors to help set up or prepare for an event, and you’ll stay after the teams have left to clean up or grade tests and input scores to the scoring program. It can be grueling but rewarding work.

NIFA Region III SAFECON 2010 landings competition
NIFA Region III SAFECON 2010 landings competition

If you’re interested in being a judge in your region, take a look at the events calendar for an upcoming regional competition in your area and contact the organizer. Or, if you wish to help judge the National SAFECON and haven’t done so before, submit your application online below (or at right) and we’ll be in contact with you about your interest.  Thank you.

All former National Chief Judges in attendance at NIFA SAFECON 2015 incl. Senior Chief Judge Darryl Stubbs (front)
All former National Chief Judges in attendance at NIFA SAFECON 2015 incl. Senior Chief Judge Darryl Stubbs (front)