Kevin Humphreys, Mental Health Ambassador, Former Military Pilot, to Speak at 2024 Ag Aviation Expo Kickoff Breakfast

Kevin Humphreys, an inspiring and transformative international keynote speaker, mentor, author, and former military helicopter pilot, will speak at the 2024 NAAA Kickoff Breakfast on Nov. 18. He’s well-known for smashing stereotypes and transforming self-leadership.

Graduating top of his pilot’s course at just 21, Kevin went on to serve in the Australian Army for 20 years flying Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters. He deployed on numerous overseas operations however, towards the peak of his career contemplated suicide and suffered a breakdown due to a cocktail of PTSD, anxiety, depression, alcohol abuse and a toxic culture.

Kevin kept his breakdown and illness a secret for seven years. Over time and with help, Kevin realized that he wasn’t a failure and his secret was holding him back from living a full life. 

It’s Kevin’s passionate belief that mental illness is normal, manageable and recoverable for most people. He shows that there is life after diagnosis and that it’s possible to return to the top of your game and beyond. Kevin not only got back on his feet but also back in the air again, spending the next ten years as a search and rescue helicopter pilot, flight instructor/examiner, chief pilot and director of operations.

He was recognized as the role model for the most recent Military Order of William recipient in the Netherlands (their oldest and highest honor). An exceptional leader, Kevin’s operational approach encouraged the Dutch Air Force to change their tactical response after witnessing his operational excellence.

Kevin is the Mental Health Ambassador for AIRBUS Australia Pacific, a contributor to international media and regular podcast guest. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his command and courageous leadership under fire in Afghanistan. He was also recognized as a 2023 community Citizen of the Year for his impact as a mental health advocate and founder of COR INFINITUS which gives dignity and respect to the families of those who’ve served their nation and taken their own lives.

Kevin is presently studying for a Master of Business Psychology degree and is married with three adult children. Learn more about Kevin at www.kevinhumphreys.com.au