Published by Shelbi Tierney on Thu, Apr 28, 2016
Dakota Neff
Aviation Flight Science/Aviation Management and Operations
Aviation is one the highest regarded industries known worldwide. It requires extensive training, knowledgeable background, and a passion for the skies. Aviation is a diverse field connecting unique individuals from all over the world. Many people divide aviation into three categories; pilots, mechanics, and administrators. However, aviation includes many jobs that go unnoticed.
At Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation, students are encouraged to expand their knowledge everyday. We are consistently pushed in the classroom, in the air, and socially as well to engage in anything we can to enhance our experience at WMU. The College of Aviation has three degrees including Aviation Flight Science, Aviation Maintenance and Technology, and Aviation Management and Operations. On my first tour, I was persuaded by an ambassador that double majoring in flight science and management and operations was a wise idea because it makes yourself more marketable to future employers. After careful consideration, I declared my double major in both of those fields. My first month at WMU, I was fortunate enough to interact with many new students who were also double majoring with these degrees. We discussed how fortunate we are to be able to graduate with two degrees from one of the most prestigious flight schools in the country.
There are many benefits to double majoring. Many students choose to do this for medical purposes or to simply have the knowledge of how to operate and manage the aircraft. To fly at WMU and also commercially, it is required that pilots hold a first class or second class medical certificate. This is a way for the FAA to measure the pilot’s medical status and if they are able to operate an aircraft safely without causing harm to themselves or others. Many aviation professionals are aware that you are never guaranteed a medical certificate. It is a sad truth for many however, this is where double majoring comes in to use. If a pilot is unable to obtain a certificate, they have the management and operations degree to fall back on. This degree allows you to have a job that isn’t flying, maintaining, or controlling the aircraft. This includes jobs such as human resources, dispatch, or sales. However, I chose this path because it will give me an understanding of how to operate the airplane and also the business behind what makes the airplane fly.
This particular double major consists of an additional 40 credits with an estimated 15 extra classes. Many students choose this path because it goes hand in hand with the each other. However, the work load is well worth the end result. Double majoring is also a great way to make connections and begin a networking process. At the College of Aviation, there are many great ways to begin this. With both degrees, it allows for students to communicate with administrative workers as well as the flight department. This can impact your career substantially because you get the best of both worlds. Aviation is a field where you never know who you’ll meet or see at the airport.