Moravian’s new aviation program is taking flight this fall with a cohort of 23 students—14 professional pilot majors and nine aviation management majors. According to Rachel L. Hall, MS, Director of Aviation Programs, the goal is about more than preparing students for careers in aviation—it is about preparing them to lead.
“Our overarching priority is to build an aviation program that prepares students not simply to earn a degree or a pilot certificate, but to enter the aviation industry as exceptionally well-prepared professionals.”
Students in the professional pilot program combine rigorous academic coursework at Moravian with flight training through a partnership with flyGATEWAY Aviation Institute. Along the way, they develop skills in safety, professionalism, aeronautical decision-making, leadership, and career readiness. Aviation management students explore the operations, safety, technology, data, and business practices that support the global aviation system.
The program’s inaugural class also has a unique opportunity: to help establish its culture from the ground up. “We want to build a program where students don’t get lost in an aviation program; they become known, challenged, mentored, and prepared to lead within one.”
Moravian’s location adds another advantage, connecting students to airports, aviation businesses, transportation infrastructure, and major aviation markets throughout the northeast. Moravian has also assembled an Aviation Program Advisory Board of industry leaders that is helping shape curriculum, partnerships, internships, mentorships, and career pathways to ensure students are prepared for an evolving industry.
Ms. Hall envisions the aviation program becoming known not for its size but for the quality of its graduates and the strength of their educational experience. Over time, students will gain access to expanded facilities and technology, including simulation, aviation data and analytics, flight planning, safety education, and applied learning.
“At the end of the day,” she says, “I want airlines, airports, flight departments, aviation companies, and other industry partners to recognize the Moravian name and know what kind of quality graduate they are getting.”
