Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is excited to partner with Republic Airways to offer an online Associate of Science (AS) degree in Aviation Operations. This degree is a non-pilot pathway for those interested in working in aviation with on-the-ground technology and communication.
The collaboration creates a program to fill the need in high-demand positions. “Republic Airways and the aviation industry overall sees demand for qualified aviation professionals to fill roles as crew schedulers, dispatcher, and other non-pilot career opportunities. The AS in Aviation Operations from IWU will help prepare graduates for these exciting jobs and the career advancement they offer,” said Ken Elkin, Director of Dispatch at Republic Airways.
While enrolled in the online program, students can continue to work full-time, completing weekly synchronous lessons with IWU faculty members who hold appropriate FAA certifications and have industry experience. These lessons teach content like industry ecosystems and how they affect aviation, regulations related to safe operations for various commercial air operations, risk management and decision making in the aerospace industry, and ethical solutions for essential operations using critical thinking. The classes help to prepare students for the FAA’s Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate and allow for opportunities to exercise aeronautical knowledge and dispatching skills.
Indiana Wesleyan University’s program director, Joe Childs, expressed appreciation for the partnership. He said, “We are excited to partner with Republic Airways to offer the Associate of Science in Aviation Operations for their employees and others seeking exciting careers as crew schedulers, dispatchers, and other operational and supervisory positions. Students can earn advanced standing toward their degree with their work experience and FAA Certificates. Once enrolled, they complete their academic coursework in a convenient and engaging online learning environment.” The online classes are taken one at a time with each class lasting five weeks. The program requires a 1 to 2-week residency to complete certification.
Students who complete the program can become crew schedulers, aircraft dispatchers, supervisors, and operations coordinators in the aerospace industry. The associate degree and FAA certificate opens the pathway to entry or advancement in these careers.
To learn more about the Associate of Science in Aviation Operations, visit indwes.edu/asao