Program Will Operate At The Eastern Iowa Airport

In partnership with Revv Aviation and the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), Coe College is opening a new flight school and aviation management program. 

Those interested in becoming a professional pilot can complete their certification while enrolled as students within Coe's new aviation management concentration. This new concentration and program will be offered pending approval by the Higher Learning Commission. 

Coe reports that the need for pilots and support personnel across the aviation industry has reached a 'critical level.' There is estimated to be a 17,000 pilot gap as many are leaving the position due to age-mandated retirement, and the increase in demand is driving starting salaries near $90,000 or more. Coe students who choose FAA pilot certification will also graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in business administration with a concentration in aviation management.

“Cedar Rapids is an aviation rich town. With the presence of national and international companies in the area, there is a concentration of pilots and aviation professionals, so Coe will build a program with highly skilled experts to teach courses and mentor students,” said Coe College President David Hayes ’93.

Coe has engaged with Revv Aviation to run the flight school. Revv Aviation reportedly has produced over 3,000 flight school graduates. Through this partnership, Coe will pursue Part 141 certification with the FAA. Once certified, most students may earn their certification more quickly under Part 141. Students may also have the opportunity to earn while they learn by becoming certified flight instructors and gaining employment while finishing their flight hours. 

Courses within the aviation management program will be taught on campus and at Coe’s dedicated aeronautical field station operated out of CID. Students can forgo the flight school and take classes within the aviation management concentration to prepare for non-flying roles within the aviation industry.

Faculty within Coe’s Stead Department of Business Administration & Economics and Revv Aviation instructors will lead the program. “Aviation and business have long gone hand-in-hand. With the current demand and earnings’ potential, as well as the future prospects in this space, this is an exciting industry to add to our portfolio of expertise at Coe,” said Roger & Mary Baxter Professor of Business Administration and World Affairs Pam Carstens.

Students in the aviation program will have exclusive use of a hangar and office space. Coe students will have the ability to network with the experienced aviation professionals and pilots based out of the airport.

Ongoing modernization at the airport will also enhance student experience and opportunities. Now in its fourth and final phase, CID is adding 32,000 square feet and four additional jet bridges to accommodate the five airlines that provide service to 19 nonstop destinations.

Coe plans to offer the flight school and aviation management program beginning Fall 2025. However, college and airport officials recognize the demand for professionals in the aviation industry is significant. 

FMI: www.coe.edu/