“We feel that our program is going to offer a more diversified educational experience,” said Jeff Miller, director of NMSU’s Facilities Space Management department, organizer of the program and pilot for the university. “Not only will students get a professional pilot’s certification, but also a traditional bachelor’s degree.”

Students in the flight school will take 18-22 hours of electives. Miller said the program complements existing programs such as the Aerospace Engineering Program, ROTC, criminal justice and others.

The flight school will prepare students for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certification written exam and practical tests by offering ground, simulator and flight training. Flight training will take place at the Las Cruces International Airport.

The target date to start the program is fall of 2004, but organizers hope to have the program fully functioning by the summer of 2004.

A committee is developing a full proposal articulating the feasibility and organizational aspects. Organizers are looking for interested participants and seeking funding for the program.

For more information about the program, contact Miller at (505) 646-3370, flight@nmsu.edu or visit their Web site at www.fly.nmsu.edu.

Photo is available at http://ucommphoto.nmsu.edu/newsphoto/miller_jeff.jpg.
CUTLINE:  Jeff Miller is seeking participants for the Flight Training Program, a program that will allow people to receive pilot certification while working on a traditional baccalaureate degree program. (NMSU photo by Darren Phillips)

Jeany Llorente
June 26, 2003

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