Sioux City, Iowa – Morningside University is pleased to announce the launch of its School of Aviation which includes Professional Flight and Aviation Management programs. The programs will be offered in partnership with Oracle Aviation, a fixed-base operator (FBO) based in Omaha, and the City of Sioux City. Enrollment is now open for students interested in beginning one of the programs in fall 2023.

“Nationally, the need for pilots and aviation management professionals is at a historic high. That is also true here in Siouxland. As a regional resource, this partnership allows us to provide the skilled talent that the aviation and other industries in this area need, and it gives Morningside students another pathway toward a fulfilling, high-wage career. This is a great thing for Siouxland businesses and the economy, and it is an outstanding opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in aviation,” said Morningside University President Dr. Albert Mosley.

 Oracle Aviation characterizes the growing demands of the aviation industry with projections that show the number of passenger flights doubling in the next 20 years, nearly 80 percent of active pilots being forced into retirement in the next 14 years due to pilot age requirements, and Boeing’s estimates that more than 850,000 pilots will need to be trained to keep up with demand.

Col. Brian Miller, former commander of the 185th Refueling Wing, serves as director of aviation for Morningside and is overseeing the development of facilities, curriculum, and recruitment.

“This is a perfect partnership in an outstanding location. The Sioux Gateway Airport (SUX) offers an ideal setting for pilots to learn in a four-season setting, and the connections that SUX has to commercial, private, and government aviation entities offers students a variety of opportunity,” shared Miller.

Miller noted that students who choose to take part in the program will have an opportunity to get a first-class education but will get to be part of the process of building the program.

“There is so much about Morningside that makes it a great setting where students can really be successful and build strong relationships with other businesspeople and professionals as they are getting their education. That is especially true with the School of Aviation since the students will be helping set the standard for what the program will be. It’s a historic opportunity,” said Miller.

Students interested in enrolling in the Professional Flight or Aviation Management program for Fall 2023 will need to apply to the program and are also encouraged to make a campus visit. Students who apply and are accepted to the Professional Flight program can expect additional requirements necessary for obtaining pilot ratings. Opportunities to discuss these requirements in detail are available during the campus visit and admissions process.