drexel - this is where a good chief pilot can make a difference. For this job a backbone is required and in some ways an actual large physical presence is required.
Not in any way critcsm on the former CP in question, he's a lovely chap that gave time and hope to newcommers. I'm just speaking from my experience and stories from other mates.
CP's keep operators and pilots in check. A good positive organisation will have more of a safety culture than a negative one. Operators that do the right thing reap the rewards - pilots are likely to go the extra yard to get the job done. The others? - you can't imagine what is done and this is a fine example. Every time you **** on your employee he will **** on you back I tell you. Think before you speak/act. Disrespect for the machine, the operator and sadly it cost a life.
Noone expects to get rich out of GA - they just ask to be treated normally.