A Strong Commitment to Small Airplanes

Two individuals who have been actively and dedicatedly serving on the SMV’s board for years to promote model aviation in Switzerland are Peter Germann and Bernard Grandjean; one is responsible for the SMV’s sporting achievements, while the other skillfully manages the finances and ensures optimal “takeoffs” and “landings” of the association’s figures—and together, they contribute constructively to ensuring that the Swiss Model Flying Association is supported and led by a wealth of expertise, professional knowledge, and an above-average passion for model flying. Both men share a passion for model flying—and both also share an important motivation for serving on this committee: “Model flying has been a constant companion of mine for a very long time—even during a detour into the world of professional aviation. Through my involvement with the SMV, I’d like to give back some of the joy, camaraderie, and experiences I’ve gained over all these years,” Peter Germann sums up, echoing Bernard Grandjean. But even this “investment” has its rewards.

Peter Germann and Bernard Grandjean are the driving forces behind the SMV’s model aviation efforts in Switzerland; one is responsible for competitive high-altitude flights within the SMV, while the other skillfully manages the finances and ensures optimal “takeoffs” and “landings” of the association’s figures—and together, they contribute constructively to ensuring that the Swiss Model Flying Association is supported and led by a wealth of expertise, professional knowledge, and an above-average passion for model flying. Both men share a passion for model flying—and both also share an important motivation for serving on this committee: “Model flying has been a constant companion of mine for a very long time—even during a detour into the world of professional aviation. Through my involvement with the SMV, I’d like to give back some of the joy, camaraderie, and experiences I’ve gained over all these years,” Peter Germann sums up, echoing Bernard Grandjean’s sentiments. But even this “investment” has its rewards.

Peter Germann (1942) has served on the SMV board since the organization’s founding in 1991, with one brief interruption; for most of that time, he has served as chair of the F2 Tethered Flight Technical Commission and as a member of various working groups. Since last year, the former mechanical engineering entrepreneur has headed the Sports Division. After the SMV’s official publication, the magazine “modellflugsport,” was transferred to an independent foundation in 2003, he has also served as a member of the “mfs” Foundation Board. Peter Germann has been involved in tethered flight since 1955 and is a member of the F2 national team.

“Through my work on the SMV board, I’ve learned a great deal about model aviation and broadened my horizons,” Bernard Grandjean says enthusiastically, reflecting on his daily life as a board member. “At the same time, it has given me the opportunity to explore new areas and topics that would have remained out of reach without this commitment.” They describe it as a personal challenge—

The personal enrichment—both social and professional—equally convinces both board members of the importance of dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to model aviation in Switzerland, as well as the importance of working together to fulfill their mandate, seek solutions, and develop strategies. “The regional associations and the umbrella organization SMV must support the changing values in model aviation—from building to flying—and would be well advised to develop appropriate strategies for fulfilling their mandate within the context of ‘commercial model aviation,’” Peter Germann is convinced. “Model aviation is good, meaningful, and of great value to young people as they navigate their way into a professional life that is not always easy. I would like to help ensure that our umbrella organization fulfills its mandate in this way.”

Bernard Grandjean is well aware, however, that it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract young people to the hobby of model flying, despite attractive youth programs. He attributes one reason for this to the fact that model flying is still not well enough known among the general public and is therefore not utilized enough as a valuable youth activity in schools, for example. “A

In his role as Chief Financial Officer, he strives to make the most of available resources while also setting priorities—such as in connection with youth development programs.

“Working alongside a group of volunteer team players who persistently pursue common goals with great dedication and inner conviction is extraordinarily satisfying,” Peter Germann notes. “Unlike in a professional setting, collaboration here is free from competitive pressure, unburdened by attempts to stand out, and not marked by existential anxiety.”

Bernard Grandjean (1960) has been an active model aircraft pilot for nearly 15 years. A bank employee, he has served as head of the finance department of the Swiss Model Aircraft Association since 2007 and has also been a board member of MG Dietikon for several years (as treasurer until the end of 2008 and as president since 2009). Bernard Grandjean flies exclusively helicopter models and owns a variety of them. In addition to flying, he enjoys the social interaction with like-minded people and the exchange of ideas with fellow model aviators at the airfield.

***We are looking for active model aircraft enthusiasts of all ages who would like to serve on the SMV board. The basic requirement for taking on such a role is a willingness to volunteer your time and energy to support model aviation. Team spirit, reliability, and the ability to plan and carry out tasks are also qualities that distinguish potential candidates. We also welcome “career changers” without prior experience on a club board. Additionally, we welcome people who, in addition to German, have a basic knowledge of another national language. For more information and to get in touch: Yves Burkhardt, Bibenlosstrasse 42, 5620 Bremgarten, at 056 633 45 75 or directly via email at praesident@modellflug.ch.***