The Sky is Not the Limit at Averett University

There are few majors offered at Averett that require the same level of concentration, technical knowledge, and responsibility as aviation.

Averett offers a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Management with the option to concentrate in Aviation Business, or Flight Operations. Students concentrating in Aviation Business take specialized aviation management class and general business administration courses. These specialized courses include topics such as aerospace accident investigation, airline management, and airport planning and design. Those with a concentration in Flight Operations, take courses designed to prepare them for their Commercial Pilot license and an Instrument Rating.

Another aspect of the aviation program is their FAA-Certified Part 141 Flight School classes. These classes allow students to become officially certified in different disciplines. Some of these certifications are a Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Flight Instructor, and Instrument Rating Certification.

The program does a fantastic job of merging classroom instruction with real world experience, keeping the students’ career goals in mind.

“The aviation program here has been focused on my future since I started. The training goes far beyond what it takes to fly our aircraft, but looks at how we can prepare for the working world in the industry.” said senior aviation major, Tyler Henley.

While the aviation program is extremely specialized, it still maintains the small school qualities that make Averett special.

“The aviation program is a unique family, the alumni help guide and mentor up-and-coming professional pilots. The training that Averett provides sets students up for success in the real world of everyday flying.” said Averett alumnus, and flight instructor, Roland Williams.

It is this “unique family” dynamic that many current students attribute their success to.

“The aviation program has given me a sense of confidence in my abilities. From my first flight, to where I am now in training, the flight instructors have pushed me to be the best pilot I can be. This has given me all the confidence in the world.” said junior aviation major, Hunter Leprell.

Like most programs here at Averett, the aviation program has seen an increase in size in recent years.

“The aviation department has grown tremendously. We had four airplanes and around 60 students when I was a student. We currently have over 100 students and nine airplanes at the moment and growing,” said Williams.

The expansion of the program, potential future growth is welcomed by current students.

“Seeing the program grow over my time here has been overwhelmingly positive. I would like to see the program continue to grow as long as we can maintain our quality of education and level of personal instruction.” said Henley.

The future is bright for both the aviation program, and it’s students. With it’s ever growing network of staff and planes, along with the support of the university, Averett will be transforming students into pilots for many years to come.