Job description

986261

College of Aeronautics and Engineering, Kent State University

Kent State University invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the School of Aeronautics in the College of Aeronautics and Engineering (CAE). This is a full-time, twelve-month, tenured faculty position at the rank of Professor, with a renewable five-year administrative appointment. The preferred start date is January 2026, though a later start date will be considered.

The School of Aeronautics is newly established, building on a long tradition of excellence in aviation education, flight operations, and aviation-related research at Kent State. As the inaugural Director, the successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction, culture, and long-term success of the School of Aeronautics within a dynamic and interdisciplinary college.

The School offers undergraduate programs in Professional Pilot, Aviation Management, Air Traffic Control and Airspace Management, Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operations and Policy, and Aeronautical Studies and is presently expanding its graduate offerings, with efforts underway to grow broad opportunities at both the master’s and doctoral levels. It operates the largest academic fleet in Ohio, with 36 aircraft based at the Kent State University Airport, and holds FAA Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) designations in three programs: Professional Pilot, Air Traffic Control, and UAS. The School is also aligned with the Center for Advanced Air Mobility (CAAM), a hub for applied research and innovation in emerging aviation technologies. The School is widely recognized as one of the largest and most respected academic aviation programs in the state and maintains pathway partnerships with every major and regional airline offering such programs. It also plays an important role in supporting the College of Aeronautics and Engineering’s expanding international initiatives across Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe.

Position Summary

The Director will provide dynamic and forward-looking leadership to advance the School of Aeronautics’ strategic priorities. This includes guiding continued growth in undergraduate and graduate enrollment, flight training and certification, externally funded research, academic excellence, and industry engagement. The School is uniquely positioned at the intersection of applied aviation education, emerging aerospace systems, and regulatory leadership. It is home to the Kent State University Airport and integrated simulation, ATC, and training infrastructure, and is actively engaged in expanding partnerships through the Center for Advanced Air Mobility.

In collaboration with the Dean, the Director will also contribute to philanthropic efforts, external outreach, and the strengthening of alumni networks. This includes participating in visits with corporate, governmental, and legislative stakeholders, and representing the School in advancing the College’s strategic goals throughout the state and beyond.

The Director will work closely with the incoming Director of the School of Engineering to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, operational synergy, and a unified vision for innovation across the College of Aeronautics and Engineering.

About Kent State University and the College of Aeronautics and Engineering

Kent State University is a public R1 university serving more than 33,000 students across eight campuses. It has been nationally recognized for its student success, affordability, and commitment to research and innovation. The College of Aeronautics and Engineering (CAE) is one of the fastest-growing academic units at the university, with undergraduate enrollment in the college tripling over the past five years. CAE offers programs at both the Aeronautics and Engineering Complex on the Kent Campus and the FedEx Aeronautics Academic Center located at the Kent State University Airport—one of the few university-owned and operated airports in the country.

The College of Aeronautics and Engineering boasts state-of-the-industry teaching laboratories and well-supported research facilities for both engineering and aeronautics. In 2023, CAE completed an over $24M major expansion of its Kent Campus complex, adding more than 40,000 square feet of new space. The college is also in the midst of a $40M capital campaign to construct three new facilities at the airport dedicated to advanced air mobility maintenance, manufacturing, and workforce development. With strong industry partnerships and investments in future-focused domains such as advanced air mobility, digital engineering, smart manufacturing, and aerospace innovation, CAE offers an unmatched opportunity for academic leadership and impact. The School of Aeronautics is a cornerstone of this mission.

Position Expectations

The Director is expected to:

• Develop and execute a strategic vision for the School of Aeronautics that aligns with the mission of the College of Aeronautics and Engineering.
• Guide continued growth in undergraduate and graduate programs, including the development of new degree pathways and research opportunities.
• Build research capacity and scholarly productivity in aviation systems, operations, and policy, including through CAAM and externally funded initiatives.
• Promote interdisciplinary and experiential learning across flight training, ATC, UAS, and aviation management.
• Strengthen collaboration with industry, government, and global partners.
• Collaborate with the Dean on philanthropic outreach and alumni engagement efforts.
• Represent the School with airline, agency, and legislative partners to support aviation workforce development.
• Manage budgets, personnel, program accreditation, airport facilities, and internal operations effectively and transparently.
• Support program accreditation and continuous improvement processes in alignment with university, state, and national standards.

Required Qualifications

• An earned doctorate in aeronautics, aviation, aerospace, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in aviation education, academic operations, and regulatory engagement.
• Familiarity with FAA regulations and collegiate aviation standards (e.g., CTI, flight curriculum, safety and compliance).
• A record of excellence in teaching, training, curriculum development, and applied or sponsored research.
• Commitment to fostering a collaborative and welcoming academic environment that encourages diversity of thought and constructive dialogue.

Preferred Qualifications

• FAA licensure (e.g., commercial pilot or ATP certificate) or significant professional experience in regulated flight environments.
• Experience managing or advising university-based flight programs or airports.
• Engagement in industry partnerships, aviation policy, or professional aviation organizations.
• Experience mentoring faculty and operational staff and managing aviation-related budgets and infrastructure.

How to apply

Applicants should submit the following materials in PDF format:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter summarizing leadership qualifications, aviation-related experience, and interest in the position
• Leadership Statement addressing the candidate’s leadership philosophy, aviation training and operational priorities, and vision for the School of Aeronautics
• Names and contact information for five references

Application Timeline

To be guaranteed consideration, candidates should apply by Friday, September 5th. Applications will be reviewed beginning on this date and will continue until the position is filled.

Preferred start date: January 2026