Under the leadership of Brad Teague, the University of Central Arkansas Aviation Academy is redefining aviation education at the University of Central Arkansas. This accelerated path to pilot certification offers students the necessary training to embark on careers and bypass a four-year degree. This kind of flexibility, innovation and partnership addresses the increasing demand for trained pilots in today’s aviation industry.
His journey to the Aviation Academy is anything but conventional. Brad Teague, Ph.D., CMEL, IFR, served as the university’s athletic director for nearly two decades with previous experience at Delta State University. While working with DSU, a school with a well-established four-year aviation degree program, he developed an interest in flying and pursued a private pilot’s license. “It got in my blood. I earned my instrument rating, a commercial pilot’s license and a multi-engine rating. The ability to fly provided me a practical solution for travel to meetings and sporting events.”
This expertise was realized at UCA, where he offered consultation about a possible flight program. While the university considered establishing an aviation degree, the nationwide post-COVID airline pilot shortage indicated an immediate need for aspiring pilots with flight experience. This shift created an opportunity for UCA to introduce a non-degree aviation program, allowing students to train as pilots while pursuing any academic major or none at all.
The UCA Aviation Academy provides a FAA Part 141-certified flight training program with structured, high-quality instruction. Students learn and train in Conway with Central Flying Academy, the partner flight school based out of Little Rock. Offering multiple licensure options including private pilot, instrument rating, commercial pilot, and the multi-engine rating – students can pursue additional qualifications including a certified flight instructor rating. This is critical for individuals earning airline transport pilot certification, which requires a minimum of 1,500 flight hours before any commercial airline applications. “The Conway Regional Airport serves as the academy’s base and offers a controlled, real-world training environment without an FAA control tower.” Brad notes that a new hangar for the Aviation Academy is currently under construction.
Another key to the future success of graduates of UCA Aviation Academy is flexibility. Unlike traditional four-year aviation programs, this academy allows students to complete training in just two years. Since it is a non-degree program, they can pursue any academic major while earning their pilot credentials or choose to just train in aviation. “Some enrollees aim for aviation careers while obtaining business or real estate degrees, ensuring they have a secondary profession. The program also accommodates working professionals who wish to train as pilots while maintaining full-time jobs. This structure offers career versatility.”
UCA Aviation Academy
