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Walter Francis Mulhearn, widely known as "Wally," is a seasoned FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in the Conroe and Houston, Texas area. With over 40 years of professional aviation experience, Mulhearn’s journey began with his first flight at age five in a DC-3 alongside his father, a corporate pilot. He formally launched his career in 1981, working as a lineman and charter pilot before joining Continental (now United) Airlines in 1987. As a veteran Boeing 737 Captain and Check Airman, he has logged over 20,000 flight hours across diverse platforms, including the B-727, B-757, and B-767, bringing a wealth of heavy-jet expertise to the general aviation community.
Since becoming a DPE in 2016, Mulhearn has specialized in Private, Instrument, Commercial, and Multi-Engine certifications. He is a prominent voice in aviation education as the co-host of the "Behind the Prop" podcast, where he emphasizes risk management and the nuances of the Airman Certification Standards. Known for a safety-centric philosophy, he focuses on practical decision-making and situational awareness. In addition to his examining duties, he is a dedicated volunteer for Pilots for Patients, reflecting a career-long commitment to mentorship and community service within the flight industry.