Why are they surprised?
Does anyone remember in which subject of the ATPL manual flying techinque is studied?
.... None?
I remember Trevor Thom book, of course but I don't remember any institution telling me to study it or having to pass written tests on how to fly. The subject of how to fly does not exist as such. Isn't it amazing? Pilots learning depends on each instructor, good or bad, with correct or incorrect technique.
I had to argue many times with FIs that "power is for rate and pitch for speed" is a wrong law, many times. They thought I was crazy. It is on the books, but books that nobody has prescribed as necessary.
And in which subjet is automated flying technique studied ?
... None?
I don't even know of any book on that.
They should be glad that pilots know how to hand fly. Thanks to their flight instructors, only.