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Aviation dean leaving for post in private sectorJan. 16, 2009 KALAMAZOO--Western Michigan University's aviation dean is leaving the University for a position in the private sector, and the departure will trigger a nationwide search for his replacement. David M. Powell, who has led the College of Aviation since 2007, has accepted a position as chief operating officer with Flight Training Services International, parent company to three specialized aviation subsidiaries, including a commercial airline training program in Florida. WMU Provost Timothy Greene announced Powell's resignation today and said he expects to appoint a new interim leader for the college soon. "We sincerely appreciate the outstanding leadership Dave has provided the College of Aviation over the past five-plus years, and especially the last two years as dean. He will be missed," Greene said. "We will appoint an interim dean very soon and will immediately start a nationwide search for a new dean of the College of Aviation." Powell, who joined the college in 2003 as director of operations and assistant dean, came to WMU from United Airline's Miami and San Francisco flight operations facilities, where he had served as chief pilot since 1999. He also served for three years as United's flight manager at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Powell took over the leadership position in the College of Aviation in 2007, replacing Rick Maloney, who left to become president and chief executive officer of Pentastar Aviation in Waterford, Mich. In his new role at FTSI, which begins Feb. 1, Powell will remain deeply involved in commercial pilot training. "My contact with FTSI began simply as an exploration of new partnership opportunities for WMU," Powell says. "They made me a wonderful offer, and I have decided to accept it. I love this college, though, and will always be a strong supporter of it. I hope to remain close and help it develop new partnerships." Headquartered in Duluth, Ga., Flight Training Services International is the parent company to three subsidiaries working to further the aviation industry: Commercial Airline Pilot Training Program, equipping the aviation industry with experienced pilots; Tactical Flight Services Inc., providing specialized services to the military; and Jackson Group Consultants, focused on business and aviation analysis. In support of education, FTSI also sponsors Careers in Aviation, a non-profit organization assisting youth in successful aviation careers. For more information, visit flighttrainingservices.com. Related article Media contact, WMU: Cheryl Roland, (269) 387-8400, cheryl.roland@wmich.edu WMU News |
