
In order to prepare our students for the 21st century with the knowledge, skills and dispositions to be professionals and leaders in the aviation and engineering industries, the College of Aeronautics and Engineering is focusing on these key priorities:
- Expanding Engineering Facilities at the Aeronautics and Engineering Building – A significant area of growth for the college, engineering programs at CAE have experienced a 28 percent enrollment increase in both incoming undergraduate classes and graduate students. In order to meet this critical need, private support is required to create an addition to the existing on-campus building which will include room for a large 100-student lecture hall, a simulation lab for computer engineering and cyber security students, research and teaching labs and offices.
- New Maintenance Hangar and Repair Station at the Kent State University Airport – In addition to a pilot shortage, the aviation industry is also experiencing a critical aircraft mechanic shortage. A new facility at the KSU Airport will not only allow for mechanical maintenance training but will also provide maintenance for the university’s own fleet, as well as repairs for private aircraft. A new four-year Aviation Maintenance Management program will also be created and new undergraduate and graduate academic options will be available at the facility as well. The Maintenance and Repair Station will include a large new lab area and classrooms.
- Scholarship Support – Several areas of need exist for scholarships in engineering technology, industrial technology and flight training, with an emphasis on increasing the number of women who choose these majors. Private support is required to help us admit, train and graduate more students to fill the void of trained workers.
- Providing Ongoing Faculty and Program Support – The college has pledged to increase the number of named, endowed chairs available in our programs, as well as named faculty positions. Our development fund serves both tenured and non-tenured faculty in expanding their professional development opportunities. There is also a need for support of student clubs to cover travel costs and supplies to offer real-world experiences to our students.