I very much agree with David Keasal's thoughts on your questions.
The CRM program developers, as well as classroom facilitators, seem to
have widely varied academic backgrounds. But, ALL seem to share a genuine
interest in flight safety through improved crew performance.
Re: Teaching Qualifications
A strong teaching background is extremely helpful, although the
experience may have come in a wide range of settings; formal schools
(college, etc.), trade/technical schools, and/or corporate/military
training programs. The only "catch" to this qualification is that many of
the more successful CRM/HumFac courses are conducted in a DISCUSSION
format, rather than the more traditional LECTURE style.
Re: Flying Experience
Most of the CRM programs I'm familiar with use current or former line
pilots from the company as course facilitators. Some courses are
developed by contractors and co-facilitated by the contractor and a
company pilot. The pilot's role is to keep the course material relevant
and applicable to the crews that attend.
Some consulting firms recruit "outside" pilots to serve as their
presenters. These pilots CAN be successful, depending on how well they
are able to connect with the kind of flying and organizational culture of
their audience. The closer the facilitator's experience to that of the
class, the more likely the material is to be accepted over the long-term.
Clearly, Dave's comment about the importance of the instructor having
credibility with the crews in-training is vital to the success of the
program.
Re: Instructor Qualification/Certification
If it required a degree in CRM (specifically), most of us wouldn't be
here. The full spectrum of degrees that apply would certainly include,
but not be limited to: psychology, industrial and flight safety,
industrial engineering, education and training, ... to name just a few.
Dave's encouragement of participation in forums (like this) and industry
workshops is quite correct. The discussions/presentations often provide
participants an opportunity to see/hear/experience some of the most
innovative and advanced thinking that is available on the topic.
Hope this helps.
Pete Wolfe