Henderson State University launches aviation courses for non-degree-seeking pilots
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. — A change made last week at Henderson State University is ensuring more people are 'Reddie' to fly.
The aviation flight training program, turning into the Arkansas Aviation Academy, is more than a name change. It expands flight education beyond those enrolled at the school.
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Three courses are now open to non-degree students. They include a commercial multi-engine add-on course, a tailwheel course, and a Certified Flight Instructor spin-training course.
They are available only to people who already have a commercial pilot certificate. Shannon Clardy, Henderson State University Dean of the College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing, said the 16-plane fleet allows more room for advanced training.
'That's what we're focused on right now. As our fleet capacity grows, then our offerings will also grow,' Clardy said.
It also fills a hiring need in the aviation industry.
'That is all experience that pilots will need to move out into industry, whether they are flying charter airplanes, flying freight, or flying passengers,' Clardy explained.
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Taylor Scalzi went from student to instructor. She completed the commercial multi-engine add-on courses last week.
'It really broadens my horizons of where I can go, and what I can do,' Scalzi explained.
Each of the three initial courses can be completed in less than a week. Accommodations will be available on campus for participating pilots during their week-long training. Scalzi said she is excited to see who the academy brings in.
'It is a very dynamic group. It could be anybody from 18 years old to in their 50s. It doesn't matter,' Scalzi said.
The creation of an aviation advisory board is underway, and the academy is working on alumni connections, along with pursuing potential partnerships with airlines, which could help with landing a job.
Chad Cocroft is a junior HSU aviation major. He said the course is his 'next step' in achieving his dream of becoming a career pilot.
'I enjoy it. I want to do it for the rest of my life,' Cocroft said.
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Henderson's long-established professional pilot bachelor's degree program is the only public university program of its kind in the state. For additional information, visit or call (870) 230-5585 to schedule training.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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