From Naval Academy to Navy Foundation: Two Helicopter Pilots' Parallel Careers
August 28, 2025
In this episode of The Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast, guest host Pat Everly flips the script, interviewing regular host Ryan Keys about his remarkable career in Naval Aviation. From their shared beginnings at Naval Academy prep to commanding helicopter squadrons, Keys reflects on leadership challenges, maintaining squadron morale, and the pivotal role of mentorship. Listeners will gain unique insights into the journey of a naval aviator, the weight of command, and the transition from active duty to preserving naval aviation heritage.
In this special edition of The Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast, retired U.S. Navy Captain and guest host Pat Everly takes the interviewer’s seat to spotlight Ryan Keys, exploring their parallel paths in naval aviation. From early days preparing for the Naval Academy to leading helicopter squadrons, the episode captures candid reflections on leadership, mentorship, and the pressures of maintaining squadron effectiveness during demanding deployments.
Keys shares how family influence, critical career decision points, and the pinnacle experience of squadron command shaped his 20+ year career. Together, Everly and Keys discuss the nuances of balancing operational demands with squadron morale, navigating setbacks, and applying crisis management principles when leadership is tested most.
The conversation also bridges past and present, as both aviators describe their current roles at the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation. Their shared mission now extends beyond the flight line: preserving naval aviation’s heritage while inspiring the next generation through education and mentorship.
What You’ll Learn:
- How family military service shapes leadership style and career choices in naval aviation
- The defining decision points of a 20+ year naval aviation career
- Why squadron command represents the pinnacle of direct leadership impact
- Strategies for maintaining morale and cohesion during compressed deployment cycles
- Real-world examples of crisis management in squadron leadership
- How transitioning from active duty to foundation leadership bridges heritage with future generations
- Ways to leverage military leadership experience in civilian organizational roles
- The continuing importance of professional networks across a lifetime of service
Ryan Keys is a retired U.S. Navy Captain and the regular host of The Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast. With more than two decades of service as a helicopter pilot and squadron commander, Keys has extensive experience in leading combat deployments, managing crisis situations, and shaping the next generation of naval aviators. His career highlights include commanding helicopter sea combat squadrons, serving in senior leadership roles, and mentoring officers through critical transitions in their careers.
Now serving with the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, Keys applies his leadership expertise to preserving the heritage of naval aviation while advancing education and outreach initiatives that inspire future service members. His journey reflects both the challenges and rewards of squadron command, the enduring impact of mentorship, and the continued influence of naval aviation leadership long after active service.
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Highlights and YouTube Chapters:
- [00:00] Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast Introduction
- [04:39] Family Legacy of Military Service and Early Career Influences
- [09:35] Critical Career Decision Points in Naval Aviation
- [15:53] Mentors and Leadership Influences in Squadron Life
- [25:40] Leading Through Deployment Challenges on USS Enterprise
- [29:03] Crisis Management and Direct Leadership Impact
- [40:21] Overcoming Career Setbacks and Maintaining Perspective
- [43:47] From Active Duty to Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Leadership