Director of the School of Aviation

The School of Aviation at the [redacted] (OU) invites applications for its next Director, with a tenured faculty appointment at the rank of associate professor or professor. This is a 12-month appointment in the College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences. The School seeks a leader who will advance aviation education and research, support faculty and staff, and prepare students for careers across the aviation industry.

The School offers five Bachelor of Science concentrations: professional pilot–airplane, professional pilot–helicopter, aviation management–flying, air traffic management, and aviation management–non-flying. These programs combine academic study with applied learning to prepare students for professional practice and leadership.

Airplane flight training is provided through the School’s in-house FAA Part 141 flight school, which holds examining authority. Helicopter flight training is provided by a contracted third-party operator located at the airport. The aviation management–flying concentration uses OU’s fixed-wing training fleet. All aircraft in OU’s training fleet are owned by the University and maintained by FAA-certified airframe and powerplant technicians who are full-time University employees.

The professional pilot–airplane, air traffic management, aviation management–flying, and aviation management–non-flying concentrations have been continuously accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) since 2005. The School’s air traffic management program is an FAA-approved Enhanced Air Traffic–Collegiate Training Initiative (Enhanced AT-CTI) program, enabling qualified graduates to proceed directly to on-the-job training at an air traffic control facility.

The School is also developing master’s and PhD degree programs, with launches anticipated soon, creating new opportunities for graduate education and aviation research. As part of the College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences, the School offers opportunities to connect aviation education and research with the College’s broader academic strengths.

The Director will work with the Dean, faculty, staff, and students to develop and implement a shared vision for the School’s future. Responsibilities include academic leadership, strategic planning, budget and personnel management, and support for teaching, scholarship, and student success. The Director will promote a strong culture of safety and professionalism, support the quality of academic, flight training, and air traffic control (ATC) simulation programs, and build relationships with alumni, industry, government, and other partners. Working closely with the Dean, the Director will help expand external support and identify opportunities for collaboration and program development.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold a doctorate or a master’s degree with documented leadership experience in academia, industry, or military organizations. Candidates must have an academic record that warrants appointment as a tenured associate professor or professor. Ideal candidates will have a strong record of teaching and scholarly achievement, demonstrated leadership and administrative skills, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, students, university administrators, alumni, and external partners. Preferred qualifications include an FAA pilot certificate or FAA controller credentials; significant experience in the aviation industry, aviation administration, military aviation, or aviation research; or a combination of these credentials and experiences. The anticipated start date is July 1, 2027.

Application Instructions

Applications should include a letter of interest describing the applicant’s views on teaching, research, leadership, and vision for the School of Aviation; a complete curriculum vitae; and the names and contact information of at least three references. Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2026, and applications will be considered until the position is filled. Applications should be submitted through Interfolio at [redacted]. Please direct questions to the search committee chair, Dean Robert Palmer ([redacted]), or his assistant, Jo Ann Mehl ([redacted]).

Additional information is available at [redacted] ([redacted]), [redacted] (College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences), and [redacted] (School of Aviation).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Why You Belong at the [redacted]

The [redacted] values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Mission of the [redacted]

The Mission of the [redacted] is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.