Pan Am, Miami Dade College partner

Pan Am International Flight Academy and Miami Dade College (MDC) have joined forces to address the critical shortage of commercial pilots expected within the next two decades, by training the future generations of aviation professionals. These institutions have signed an agreement to jointly create solid career paths for aviation students.

As part of the partnership, students enrolled in certain aviation courses offered by MDC will receive supplemental training provided by Pan Am International Flight Academy. The partnership also includes the establishment of a Pan Am Career Pilot Academy at Miami Executive Airport to conduct a professional flight training program for MDC students. Qualified students may also pursue job opportunities to become flight instructors for the Pan Am Career Pilot Academy while they complete their degree program at MDC. Pan Am will also offer additional training courses at other Pan Am facilities that seek to provide a greater value to students’ career paths.

Beginning in Spring 2019, the training program will lead to FAA certifications for Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Instrument Rating, Multi-engine rating, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). The credentials will lead to a Restricted Air Transport Pilot certificate (R-ATP).

“The global aviation industry is facing a talent skills gap and the need for commercial pilots has never been greater,” said Dr. John Wensveen, Vice Provost of Academic Schools at MDC. “In the United States, there is a need to develop accelerated and affordable career pathways leading to full-time job placement for citizens of our communities that will support sustainable business models. The strategic partnership between Pan Am and MDC creates a new pathway for students seeking to become commercial pilots at an accelerated pace and at a reduced cost, incorporating a learn-and-earn model once the student acquires the Certified Flight Instructor rating.”