4 days ago
North Iowa Area Community College launches aviation degree program
North Iowa Area Community College will offer a new degree program in the fall for students to earn aviation certifications. (Photo by Jim Obradovich for Iowa Capital Dispatch)
North Iowa Area Community College will offer students a path to an aviation career with a new professional pilot degree program starting this fall.
The Mason City-based community college announced in a news release the launch of the Aviation Professional Pilot Associate of Applied Science Degree in its Skilled Trades Division. According to the release, the five-semester program will combine classroom instruction with practical training at the Mason City Airport.
'This program is an incredible opportunity for students passionate about aviation to turn their dreams into reality,' said Laura Wood, dean of agriculture and skilled trades, in the release. 'By offering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, we're setting our graduates up for success in one of the most exciting and rewarding industries out there.'
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NIACC joins other community colleges in providing aviation training to students, including Indian Hills Community College, Iowa Lakes Community College and Iowa Western Community College, each of which received federal funding for their programs last year. Coe College in Cedar Rapids also announced the opening of a new flight school in May 2024.
North Iowa Air Service has partnered with the community college to provide education and training to enrolled students, according to the release. Students will receive both lab and flight training through the program, which will, alongside classroom instruction, teach students about aerodynamics, navigation, aviation safety and operations.
By the time students graduate from the program, the release stated, they will have the skills and knowledge for careers in flight instruction, piloting and more.
'North Iowa Air Service is thrilled to partner with NIACC for the Aviation Professional Associate of Applied Science degree,' said Todd Kyle, owner and president of North Iowa Air Service, in the release. 'My grandfather began this business in 1957 teaching people how to fly in North Iowa. We are thrilled to continue and expand that tradition with NIACC. We look forward to working with them to grow and expand this program for years to come.'
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