In this episode of the James Spearman Show, retired Air Force fighter pilot but still mechanic consultant for the Air Force, Ben Bosma his remarkable journey in aviation, from his early inspirations to his extensive career in military aviation and aerospace innovation. Today’s episode is a shorter one that’ll be of serious enjoyment to all pilots and aviators interested in the mechanics and innovations from someone who's patented and invented. He discusses his experiences as an inventor, his patents in autonomous systems, and his vision for the future of hybrid aviation. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing the aviation industry, the importance of modernizing manufacturing processes, and the potential of electric and hybrid propulsion systems.
Takeaways
Ben's journey into aviation began with a congressional representative's encouragement.
He has over 7,000 flight hours and has owned nine airplanes.
Ben's first patent was obtained in 1993, showcasing his innovative spirit.
He played a key role in developing autonomous aircraft for the Air Force.
Ben emphasizes the need for modernization in aviation manufacturing.
He holds patents on hybrid engines and distributed electric propulsion.
Ben believes that hybrid aviation will be the future of flight.
He advocates for reducing the cost of entry into aviation for new pilots.
Ben's work includes innovations in air refueling for unmanned systems.
He is passionate about developing technologies that benefit the warfighter.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Aviation Stories
00:52 – Meet Ben Bosma: Fighter Pilot, Engineer, Inventor
01:28 – From Ohio to the Air Force Academy
02:03 – Gliders, Sullenberger & the Soaring Spark
03:02 – Flight Instructing, Inventions, and Guard Duty
04:20 – Aerospace Innovation and First Patents
05:07 – Low Observable Projects and Return to Duty
06:07 – Autonomous Aircraft with Spragg Clutch Tech
07:20 – Hybrid Propulsion Concepts and Electric Motor Limitations
09:04 – Rethinking EVTOLs and Battery-Powered Aircraft
10:09 – Serial vs. Parallel Hybrids in Aviation
11:13 – Ben’s Plan for Turboprop Hybrids
12:04 – Inventing Autonomous Air Refueling
14:03 – Building a Dream Team for Innovation
15:15 – Challenges in Military Procurement
17:00 – Reducing Cost of Entry into Aviation
18:19 – Closing Thoughts on Innovation & Accessibility
As always, a heartfelt thank you to our guest, Ben Bosma, for joining us and offering such a rich and inventive perspective on the future of aviation—from autonomous systems to hybrid propulsion and beyond.
Be sure to connect with Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aerovation/
If you’re curious to explore more of Ben’s groundbreaking work, stay tuned—his innovations in air refueling, hybrid propulsion, and aviation manufacturing are just getting started.
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