The new B.A.A.S. Aviation Science-Professional Pilot concentration program, offered by TXST’s Department of Occupational, Workforce, and Leadership Studies (OWLS), is set to launch immediately for classes starting in Fall 2024. This innovative program is expected to revolutionize the department’s approach to delivering career-focused, hands-on training in a field that is experiencing rapid growth and high demand in Central Texas and beyond.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that over the decade spanning 2022-2032, the demand for commercial pilots will grow nationally by more than 5,600 positions, an increase of more than 4%. Approximately 16,800 openings for commercial pilots are projected each year on average over the decade, with many of these openings resulting from the need to replace pilots reaching mandatory retirement. Felix Quayson, Ph.D., BAAS program coordinator, stated that the Department of OWLS is excited to help train the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals to meet the workforce demands in the nation. They welcome strategic partnerships that will give Texas State students a first-rate aviation experience.
Shetay Ashford-Hanserd, Ph.D., OWLS chair, expressed excitement about the partnership with Coastal Flight, an FAA-approved flight school, which will provide BAAS students with exceptional training opportunities. The department is also looking forward to forging new partnerships within the aviation industry and other sectors. Angela Ausbrooks, Ph.D., interim dean in the College of Applied Arts, expressed excitement about the launching of the new aviation certification program in OWLS. This program will allow OWLS to increase its positive impact on the learning of future students and enhance collaborations with industry partners throughout Central Texas. It will also strengthen its trajectory toward meeting strategic plan goals, particularly those related to student success and providing quality academic programming
