Community, faith and flight
Praise for the book—and Bob’s work
Read what others have to say about Takeoff Power and Bob’s coaching, speaking and mentoring.
Praise for Takeoff Power
“I was happy to read the memoir of a long-time friend and church member. Socrates said that the unexamined life is a life not worth living. In his memoir, Bob ably tells the facts of his life but also offers insights from his examination of those facts as they pertain to his faith and his striving for a life well-lived.”
James Harper Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Douglasville, GA
“As someone who flies a lot for work, I will never look at my flights the same way again. Bob has shown in this book the interrelationship between flying and the community you build around you. Takeoff Power is not just an aviation term, but something achieved when someone, or many, walk along side of you with care and commitment. Bob has certainly done that in a life well lived.”
John Terech Executive Director of Operations, ECO Presbyterians
“Bob Snelling has lived an extraordinary life—from the Naval Academy and the cockpit of Navy and Delta aircraft to public office, ministry, mentoring, and a lifetime of adventure with his beloved Paula. But the real story of Bob's book "Takeoff Power" isn’t simply where Bob has been or what he has accomplished. It’s what he discovered along the way: none of us was meant to fly solo. With warmth, humility, faith, and wonderful stories, Bob reminds us that the people God places around us are among His greatest gifts. This is more than a memoir—it’s an invitation to live gratefully, invest deeply in others, and never underestimate the power of community.”
Bob Tiede Author, Leading With Questions
“I have watched It's a Wonderful Life more than one hundred times, and each viewing reinforces a timeless truth: a meaningful life is measured not by what one acquires, but by the positive impact one has on others. As I read Bob's memoir, I was reminded of that same enduring lesson. “I first met Bob through the Colson Fellows program. Early in our friendship, he introduced me to the Christian Business Men's Connection (CBMC), a community that has enriched my life in countless ways. That experience reflects the essence of Bob's character. He is a connector of people, a builder of community, and someone who consistently seeks to create opportunities for others to flourish. “Readers will find Bob’s true story compelling not simply because of the experiences Bob recounts, but because of the wisdom his journey offers. His story demonstrates how loving parents, personal discipline, a spirit of adventure, and a lifelong commitment to serving others shaped a life of significance. Equally powerful is his reflection on the communities that influenced him and the lasting impact he made on those he served. “This book is worth reading because it reminds us that character matters, relationships matter, and a life devoted to others leaves a legacy that endures. Bob's memoir is both an engaging personal story and an inspiring example of how ordinary faithfulness, lived over a lifetime, can produce an extraordinary impact.”
Andre’ Kennebrew Director of Relationships, Lifeshape
“We have known Bob and Paula for quite a long time. In all our travels with Bob and Paula the times they visited us in Tbilisi are the most memorable. Bobs’ life story is very interesting and relatable, especially for us baby boomers.”
Brenda and Brigadier General Cassel J. Nutter {RET} Georgia Army National Guard
“Though not a pilot myself, I found Bob's "Takeoff Power" analogies both fascinating and apropos. They are so very relatable to the challenges we each face. You'll enjoy being mentored by this wise man who serves well in his many communities as a military leader, government servant, church leader, husband, father, and mentor. He's leaving his indelible mark on the next generations, and I'm privileged to call him a dear friend and brother.”
Wendy Hill Sanchez 40+ year missionary and Coaching Client
Earlier coaching, speaking and mentoring testimonials
These earlier testimonials reflect Bob’s work with individuals and groups.
“At ECO, we have worked hard to create a “coaching culture” by training many in this art of coaching. Bob has excelled in this training and already a very competent coach, he’s striving for continuing certifications, being the best coach he can be for his clients.”
John Terech Executive Director of Operations, ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians
“The most important attribute that differentiates the good teachers, trainers, coaches and mentors from the great ones is the ability to motivate. Bob Snelling is one of those rare individuals gifted with the talent to help you launch your personal and professional life to the next level.”
Mike Doyle Chief Line Check Pilot, Airbus-350, Delta Air Lines
“Hearing Mr. Snelling speak to my military youth group at their awards dinner, I could see the cadets taking off ideas and could witness them the following days launching their minds in exploration of the future. Mr. Snelling took them to the next level of innovation.”
LCDR William Golden Regional Director Georgia, Navy Sea Cadet Corps
“I have known Bob Snelling since 1994 when we were both freshman legislators in the Georgia House of Representatives. His engaging personality, diverse and interesting background, faith, and successes quickly evolved us into a friendship. I am pleased that this has grown over these 24 intervening years. “When Bob told me about his interest, training and coaching, I realized this was a natural next step for what he has been doing. He naturally engages people and I’ve seen this grow into mentoring relationships that are truly life changing. “He listens with a trained ear and his aforementioned background provides him with VERY thought provoking reflections on what has been said. Over time this evolves into actions that I own because they were from me versus Bob telling me.”
Jeff Brown, State Representative (retired) LaGrange, GA
The next chapter
Every journey begins with a connection.
Discover Takeoff Power and the people who shaped Bob’s life.