Kaitlyn Gallegos

As an Adjunct Professor and Ground School Instructor at Southern Utah University, I instructed collegiate aviation students in Part 141 and Part 61 ground school courses, including Private Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor curriculum. I developed and delivered engaging lesson plans designed to simplify complex aviation concepts while promoting student comprehension and retention. My responsibilities included preparing students for FAA written examinations, oral evaluations, and the practical application of aeronautical knowledge, as well as assessing student performance through assignments, presentations, examinations, and individualized feedback to support academic success. I fostered a professional and collaborative classroom environment that encouraged critical thinking, participation, and confidence in future pilots and instructors. Additionally, I designed supplemental training materials, study guides, and handouts to enhance learning outcomes and maintained compliance with university academic standards and FAA Part 141 training requirements.

As Part 141 Assistant Chief Flight Instructor at Southern Utah University, I oversaw daily fixed-wing flight operations within a high-volume training environment, supporting instructor standardization, student progression, scheduling coordination, and regulatory compliance. I supervised and mentored flight instructors to ensure adherence to FAA regulations, university procedures, and standardized training practices while conducting student progress evaluations, performance reviews, and remedial training planning to maintain high instructional standards and student success. I served as one of the youngest FAA-authorized Part 141 Self-Examiner Authorities in the country, qualified to conduct Private and Instrument stage and end-of-course evaluations, and was recognized as SUU Aviation’s first female and youngest Fixed Wing Assistant Chief Flight Instructor. Additionally, I was appointed as Iron County Air Operations Deputy in February 2024, supporting county aviation operations and aerial mission coordination. Throughout the role, I maintained oversight of training records, documentation accuracy, and FAA compliance for students and instructors while assisting in departmental initiatives to improve operational efficiency, instructional quality, and overall program effectiveness.