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Aviation Institute News

Wednesday, May 27, 2026
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indextrue177609310033577847849UNO Aviation Institute News CenterThe latest news about the University of Nebraska at Omaha's (UNO) award-winning Aviation Institute.The latest news about the University of Nebraska at Omaha's (UNO) award-winning Aviation Institute.1462078800000UNO Aviation Institute News Center/news/indexCPACS - Aviation Institutesite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/index6286380217635012930734995326517799162366791770184800000
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes//news/2026/05/img/ftnationals.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/05/img/ftnationals.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteftnationals.png11865251200800Tyler Thieman, Alex Duman, Thomas Reid/news/2026/05/img/ftnationalsnav.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/05/img/ftnationalsnav.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteftnationalsnav.png10709051200800Will Skradski, Bill Leitner/news/2026/05/img/nationals.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/05/img/nationals.pngCPACS - Aviation Institutenationals.png14236181200800Group of studentsYouTube

The University of Nebraska at Omaha Flying Mavs concluded a standout season with an impressive performance at the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON competition in Quad Cities Iowa, finishing 8th overall out of 28 collegiate flight teams from across the nation.

The national competition represented the culmination of nearly a full year of preparation for the Flying Mavs, who spent countless hours training in both flight and ground events throughout the academic year. Competing against some of the top aviation programs in the country, UNO students delivered multiple top finishes, national championships, and individual honors.

One of the team’s biggest accomplishments came in IFR (Instrument Simulated Flight), where Thomas Reid captured 1st place and earned the title of national champion. The Flying Mavs also secured another national championship in Traditional Navigation, with Cullen Leitner serving as pilot and Will Skradski as safety observer taking home 1st place overall.

UNO continued its strong performance in navigation events as Thomas Reid and Alex Duman earned 2nd place in Unlimited Navigation. In CRM/LOFT competition, Tyler Thieman, serving as Pilot Flying, and Trevor Denker, serving as Pilot Monitoring, finished in 3rd place nationally.

Additional individual event results included:

  • Aircraft Preflight: Tyler Thieman — 7th place; Alex Duman — 18th place
  • Computer Accuracy: Tyler Thieman — 13th place; Alex Duman — 18th place
  • Ground Trainer: Thomas Reid — 11th place; Will Skradski — 23rd place
  • Short Field Landing: Tyler Thieman — 9th place

The Flying Mavs also earned recognition in the overall Top Pilot standings, with Thomas Reid placing 10th nationally and Tyler Thieman finishing 12th overall among competitors.

The strong finish at nationals highlights the continued growth and success of the UNO Flying Mavs program, as well as the dedication and professionalism of its student competitors. Through months of preparation, teamwork, and flight training, the team represented UNO on a national stage and continued the program’s tradition of excellence in collegiate aviation competition.

 
////No/news/2026/05/flightteamnationals2026departmentphone402.554.3424emailunoaviation@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/05/flightteamnationals2026CPACS - Aviation Instituteflightteamnationals2026[Article Heading]UNO Flying Mavs Earn Top-10 Finish at NIFA SAFECON NationalsUNO Aviation InstituteThe UNO Flying Mavs captured multiple national titles and earned a top-10 finish at the NIFA SAFECON National Competition.May 27, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1775797200000From academic excellence to leadership in aviation, these students are taking off in a big way.//news/2026/04/img/honors1.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/honors1.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutehonors1.jpg6024181200800Scholarship Winners/news/2026/04/img/honors2.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/honors2.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutehonors2.jpg6032091200800Zachary Nanfito, Scholarship Winner/news/2026/04/img/honors3.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/honors3.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutehonors3.jpg6534881200800Shay Sinnard, Natalia Meyer, Adeline Peetz, Scholarship Winners/news/2026/04/img/honors4.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/honors4.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutehonors4.jpg6071501200800Victoria Dannelly, Izzy Vlasek, Scholarship WinnersYouTube

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Aviation Institute proudly recognized outstanding student achievement during its 2026 Aviation Institute Honors Convocation, awarding more than $38,000 in scholarships to 19 students. These scholarships, supported by generous donors and industry partners, reflect the Institute’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and the future of aviation.

The following students were recognized:

  • Col. Kari Johnson Memorial Scholarship: Zachary Nanfito
  • Russell C. Ross Memorial Aviation Scholarship: John Arthur
  • Densel K. and Melba J. Acheson Student Enrichment Fund: Jacob Long
  • Chambers Family Aviation Scholarship: Connor Grell
  • Robert E. and Rosita C. Wolsmann Scholarship: Danica Brunk
  • Don Smithey Scholarship: Victoria Dannelly
  • Robert Azer Memorial Scholarship: Anna Mock
  • Larry M. Smith Memorial Scholarship: Izzy Vlasek
  • Arlene V. Steier Memorial Aviation Scholarship: Calla Behney
  • Bruce Tuttle Memorial Scholarship: Alex Duman
  • Jet Linx Aviation Institute Golf Classic Scholarship: Shay Sinnard
  • Nebraska Aviation Council Scholarship: Talia Meyer
  • Jamie Barrett Memorial Scholarship: Carter J. Fitzgerald
  • David L. LaMar Memorial Scholarship: Ronan Baker, John Paul Broer
  • Chris A. Hawks Memorial Scholarship: Alex Duman, Benjamin Lautenshlager, Samuel Bergman
  • Aviation Institute Student of the Year: Tyler Thieman
  • Durham Scholarship (Highest Academic Honor): Izzie Peetz

In addition, the Frank E. Sorenson Award for Pioneering Aviation Education was presented to Sara Martin in recognition of her exceptional contributions to student success and aviation education at the UNO Aviation Institute. Sara Martin has been a dedicated and highly impactful member of the Aviation Institute, serving as our trusted advisor and advocate for students throughout her tenure. With a deep commitment to student success, she has played a critical role in guiding students through course planning, flight training, and career preparation. Sara is widely recognized for her accessibility, attention to detail, and genuine care for each student’s individual goals, often going above and beyond to ensure they stay on track and feel supported. 

Each scholarship honors individuals and families who have made lasting contributions to aviation, while supporting students pursuing careers across professional flight, aviation administration, and related fields. Recipients were selected based on academic performance, leadership, involvement, and commitment to the aviation profession.

“The success of our students is made possible through the continued support of our donors, alumni, and industry partners,” said Scott Vlasek, Director of the UNO Aviation Institute. “These scholarships not only recognize achievement but also provide critical opportunities that help launch the next generation of aviation professionals.” 

The Aviation Institute continues to experience record growth and remains committed to advancing aviation education, workforce development, and industry partnerships.

For more information about the UNO Aviation Institute and its programs, please visit aviation.unomaha.edu. 

Follow the Aviation Institute on Instagram, Twitter (X), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Youtube
////No/news/2026/04/honors-convocation-2026departmentAviation Institutephone402.554.3424emailcategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/honors-convocation-2026CPACS - Aviation Institutehonors-convocation-2026UNO Aviation Institute Announces 2026 Honors Convocation Scholarship RecipientsUNO Aviation Institute Announces 2026 Honors Convocation Scholarship RecipientsFrom academic excellence to leadership in aviation, these students are taking off in a big way.Scott VlasekUNO Aviation is investing in the future—awarding over $38,000 in scholarships to 19 outstanding students at the 2026 Honors Convocation. From academic excellence to leadership in aviation, these students are taking off in a big way.Apr 10, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1775451600000//news/2026/04/img/prote1.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/prote1.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteprote1.jpg1449011200800Student in hypoxia chamber/news/2026/04/img/prote2.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/prote2.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteprote2.jpg1304061200800Student in hypoxia chamber/news/2026/04/img/prote3.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/prote3.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteprote3.jpg1524861200800Student in hypoxia chamber/news/2026/04/img/prote4.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/prote4.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteprote4.jpg1590631200800 Student in hypoxia chamber/news/2026/04/img/prote5.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/prote5.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteprote5.jpg1374201200800Student in hypoxia chamberYouTube

Understanding hypoxia is a fundamental part of aviation training, yet for many students, that understanding is often limited to classroom discussions and textbook definitions. While students may be able to define hypoxia, identify its four types, and list common symptoms, recognizing those symptoms in real time presents a much greater challenge. 

To address this gap, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently brought its Portable Reduced Oxygen Training Enclosure (PROTE) to campus. The PROTE provides a controlled environment where students can safely experience hypoxia firsthand—an opportunity designed to help future pilots recognize and respond to the condition before it becomes dangerous in flight. 

Before entering the chamber, participants attended a detailed pre-brief outlining what to expect. Oxygen levels inside the enclosure were reduced to approximately 7%, simulating conditions at 26,000 feet above mean sea level. Students also reviewed common symptoms such as lightheadedness, impaired cognition, slowed reaction time, and euphoria, while discussing the primary goal of the exercise: identifying their personal physiological response to hypoxia. 

Student Tyler Theiman described the preparation process, explaining, “The four other participants in my group and I, led by one of the FAA representatives, discussed common symptoms—lightheadedness, impaired cognition, slowed reaction time, euphoria—and, more importantly, the goals of the exercise: to determine what our individual symptoms look like.” 

Participants were equipped with pulse oximeters to monitor their blood oxygen saturation throughout the exercise. This allowed both students and FAA staff to track physiological changes in real time and determine when intervention—such as using supplemental oxygen—was necessary. 

Reflecting on his baseline condition, Theiman noted, “Prior to entering the chamber, I was resting at 80 BPM heart rate and 99% oxygen saturation.” 

Once inside the chamber, the effects of hypoxia set in quickly. According to Theiman, the environment initially felt normal, but the shift was almost immediate. 

“Almost immediately, I began to feel lightheaded. My oxygen saturation dropped into the high 80s within moments,” he said. 

As the exercise progressed, students were instructed to complete simple cognitive tasks, including a word search, to demonstrate how hypoxia affects mental performance. 

“At about the one-minute mark, we were instructed to begin a simple word search. I found one word very quickly before checking my pulse oximeter, which had dropped to 80% saturation. Feeling very dizzy, I looked for more words for another 20 seconds.” 

Soon after, FAA staff directed him to use supplemental oxygen. 

“At that point, I was instructed to don my oxygen mask. As I started to pull my mask to my face, I checked my readings—my oxygen saturation had fallen to 68%, and my heart rate had climbed to around 130 BPM.” 

Recovery was rapid once oxygen was reintroduced. 

“With the mask on, I began breathing heavily. It took about 15 seconds, but my lightheadedness started to disappear.” 

Observers later confirmed that his oxygen saturation dropped as low as 62%, while his heart rate peaked at 149 BPM during the exercise. 

Following the chamber session, students participated in a post-brief discussion focused on identifying symptoms and evaluating whether they would have recognized them in a real flight scenario. 

For Theiman, the conclusion was clear. 

“My symptoms were very noticeable—lightheadedness and dizziness that were difficult to ignore. Based on that experience, I came to the conclusion that I would be able to recognize my own symptoms of hypoxia without relying heavily on a pulse oximeter during flight.” 

However, not all participants shared the same experience. Some individuals exhibited significantly lower oxygen saturation levels with minimal noticeable symptoms, highlighting the variability in how hypoxia affects different people. 

Theiman emphasized the importance of this realization, stating, “Seeing this stark difference in experiences reinforced the importance of personal awareness and training.” 

The training ultimately underscored a critical lesson for aspiring pilots: hypoxia can develop quickly, and its warning signs are not always universal. 

Reflecting on the overall experience, Theiman said, “The FAA PROTE chamber made it clear how quickly hypoxia can take effect.” He added that the experience reinforced the importance of early recognition and immediate corrective action. 

Programs like the FAA’s PROTE chamber provide a rare opportunity for students to move beyond theory and gain practical, life-saving awareness. By experiencing hypoxia in a controlled setting, future pilots are better equipped to recognize their own symptoms, respond effectively, and maintain safety in the cockpit. 

Seeing this stark difference in experiences reinforced the importance of personal awareness and training.Tyler TheimanRightFollow the Aviation Institute on Instagram, Twitter (X), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Youtube////No/news/2026/04/prote-2026departmentphone402.554.3424emailunoaviation@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/prote-2026CPACS - Aviation Instituteprote-2026[Article Heading]Experiencing Hypoxia: FAA PROTE Chamber Brings Critical Training to Campus Aviation InstituteInside a simulated high-altitude environment, aviation students came face-to-face with one of flying’s most dangerous hidden threats—hypoxia. Through the Federal Aviation Administration’s PROTE chamber, they didn’t just learn the symptoms—they experienced them.Apr 6, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1770746400000Eight students from the UNO Aviation Institute have earned a coveted spot in the Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program—a competitive pathway launching the next generation of professional pilots toward the flight deck at Southwest./news/2026/02/img/sw2251.jpegnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/sw2251.jpegCPACS - Aviation Institutesw2251.jpeg9383131200799A Southwest Airlines jet climbs into a clear blue sky, symbolizing the next step toward the flight deck for future Destination 225° pilots.Southwest's Boeing 737. ///YouTube

Eight University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute Students Selected for Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program

The University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute is proud to announce that twelve students have been selected for the prestigious Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program.The students selected include Calla Behney, Connor Grell, Caden McDermott, Leo “Alex” Duman, Dalton Van Wyhe, Adeline “Izzie” Peetz, Jacob Wigodsky, Landon Scott, Maxwell Heinen, Nicholas Hinkel, Shay Sinnard, and Tyler Thieman.

The Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program is a comprehensive career pathway initiative designed to develop the next generation of professional pilots for Southwest Airlines. Launched to address long-term pilot workforce needs, the program provides selected candidates with structured mentorship, training milestones, and a clearly defined path to becoming a Southwest First Officer. The program connects collegiate aviators with industry leaders while reinforcing Southwest’s commitment to safety, leadership, and service.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute has a long-standing tradition of preparing aviation professionals through rigorous academic coursework and FAA-aligned flight training. As an FAA Part 141 program with R-ATP authorization, the Aviation Institute combines classroom instruction, advanced simulation, and flight experience to equip students for careers as professional pilots, air traffic controllers, airport executives, and aviation leaders. The Institute continues to experience strong enrollment growth while building partnerships with major airlines and industry stakeholders.

Selection into Destination 225° is highly competitive and reflects each student’s academic performance, flight proficiency, leadership qualities, and commitment to professionalism. The selection of eight students in a single cohort represents a significant achievement for both the individuals and the Aviation Institute.

“This accomplishment speaks to the quality of our students and the strength of our professional flight program,” said Scott Vlasek, Director of the UNO Aviation Institute. “We are proud of Izzie, Calla, Connor, Caden, Alex, Dalton, Jacob, Landon, Maxwell, Nicholas, Shay, and Tyler for earning this opportunity and representing UNO at the highest level.”

For more information about the UNO Aviation Institute and its programs, please visit aviation.unomaha.edu.

We are proud of Izzie, Calla, Connor, Caden, Alex, Dalton, Jacob, Landon, Maxwell, Nicholas, Shay, and Tyler for earning this opportunity and representing UNO at the highest level.Scott VlasekRightFollow the Aviation Institute on Instagram, Twitter (X), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Youtube////No/news/2026/02/destination-225-press-releasedepartmentAviation Institutephone402.554.3424emailsvlasek@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community ServicelocationAviation Instituteevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/destination-225-press-releaseCPACS - Aviation Institutedestination-225-press-releaseUNO Aviation Institute Students Selected for Southwest Airlines Destination 225° ProgramUNO Aviation Institute Students Selected for Southwest Airlines Destination 225° ProgramEight students from the UNO Aviation Institute have been selected for the competitive Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program, highlighting the institute’s strong professional flight training and industry partnerships.Southwest Airlines Destination 225Scott VlasekEight students from the University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute have been selected for the competitive Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program, highlighting the institute’s strong professional flight training and industry partnerships.Feb 22, 2026 12:00 PM
Spotlights
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes/news/2026/05/hunter-news.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/05/hunter-news.pngCPACS - Aviation Institutehunter-news.png165803512341Hunter Pehrson///YouTube

For Hunter Pehrson, the UNO Aviation Institute is more than just a place of work — it is where his own aviation journey began. Now serving as the institute’s Recruitment and Retention Specialist, Pehrson helps prospective and current students find their place within the program and feel supported as they work toward their goals in aviation.

Pehrson is a graduate of the UNO Aviation Institute, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Aviation with a concentration in Professional Flight. His background as a former student gives him a unique perspective in his current role, allowing him to connect with students who are navigating many of the same experiences he once had.

During his time at UNO, Pehrson was involved with the UNO Flight Team, an experience that helped strengthen his skills, build connections, and deepen his involvement in the aviation community. Through Flight Team, he had the opportunity to represent the university while working alongside other students who shared his passion for aviation.

After graduating, Pehrson continued giving back to the program by helping coach the Flight Team. In that role, he supported student competitors and helped lead the team to two national competitions. His continued involvement reflects his dedication to both the team and the students who help carry on its success.

Today, Pehrson uses his experience as both a graduate and staff member to support the Aviation Institute’s recruitment and retention efforts. Whether he is meeting with prospective students, answering questions about the program, or helping current students feel more connected, he plays an important role in strengthening the UNO Aviation community.

In addition to his work at the Aviation Institute, Pehrson is also continuing his education at UNO as he works toward completing his Master of Business Administration. His commitment to furthering his education reflects his dedication to growth, leadership, and making a lasting impact within the aviation field.

Outside of work and school, Pehrson enjoys returning to his hometown to spend time with family. That connection to home, along with his continued commitment to UNO, reflects the importance he places on community, relationships, and supporting the people around him.

From student to graduate student to staff member, Pehrson’s journey with the UNO Aviation Institute shows his continued dedication to helping students succeed. Through his role, he remains an important part of the institute’s mission to support and prepare the next generation of aviation professionals.

////No/news/2026/05/hunter-spotlightdepartmentAviation Institutephone402.554.3424emailcategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/05/hunter-spotlightCPACS - Aviation Institutehunter-spotlight[Article Heading]Hunter Pehrson Supports the Next Generation of UNO Aviation StudentsUNO Aviation InstituteHunter Pehrson’s UNO Aviation journey has come full circle. Once a Professional Flight student and Flight Team member, he now helps future and current Mavericks find their place in aviation as the institute’s Recruitment and Retention Specialist, all while continuing his education through UNO’s MBA program.May 19, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1776142800000//news/2026/04/img/skip1.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/skip1.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteskip1.jpg1377511200800Skip Bailey/news/2026/04/img/skip2.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/skip2.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteskip2.jpg1096521200800Skip Bailey/news/2026/04/img/skip3.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/skip3.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteskip3.jpg1504811200800Skip Bailey/news/2026/04/img/skip4.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/skip4.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteskip4.jpg1120731200800Skip Bailey/news/2026/04/img/skip5.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/img/skip5.jpgCPACS - Aviation Instituteskip5.jpg1290851200800Skip BaileyYouTube

With more than three decades in aviation, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Lowell “Skip” Bailey has built a career defined by leadership, global impact, and a passion for mentorship. Now serving as Assistant Director of Flight Training at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), Bailey continues to shape the future of aviation—this time from the ground up.

Bailey’s aviation journey began at Indiana University, where he joined Air Force ROTC. Upon graduating and earning his commission as a second lieutenant, he entered pilot training, launching what would become a 25-year career in the United States Air Force. Over the course of his service, Bailey flew a range of high-profile aircraft, including the EC-135, KC-10, and the E-4B “Nightwatch,” often referred to as the nation’s airborne command post.

His time in the Air Force was marked by both operational excellence and unique opportunities. While flying the E-4B, Bailey transported five U.S. Secretaries of Defense—Donald Rumsfeld, Leon Panetta, Ashton Carter, Chuck Hagel, and Robert Gates—on missions around the world. He also deployed five times, including a year-long tour in Afghanistan, and traveled extensively, visiting 35 countries across every continent except Antarctica.

Beyond flying, Bailey took on key leadership roles. He served as Air Show Director for the 2004 and 2005 Offutt Air Force Base Air Shows, coordinating large-scale events that showcased aviation to the public and strengthened community engagement. He retired from active duty in 2016 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

That same year, Bailey transitioned into academia, joining UNO as a Flight Training Coordinator. His role has since evolved into Assistant Director of Flight Training, where he oversees key aspects of student development and program operations. His passion for teaching, however, began earlier in his career during his time as ROTC Commander at Kent State University, where he discovered a love for instructing college students.

“I thought it would be a great way to combine two things I really enjoyed—flying and teaching,” Bailey said of his decision to join UNO.

At UNO, Bailey has also made a significant impact on the university’s Flight Team. After assisting with coaching beginning in 2019, he became head coach in 2023. Under his leadership, the team has continued to excel, and Bailey himself was recognized as Coach of the Year at SAFECON, a prestigious national aviation competition.

What Bailey values most about his current role is witnessing student growth. From their first flights to launching careers in the aviation industry, he takes pride in guiding students through each stage of their journey.

“One of the things I really enjoy about teaching is watching students go through our program, start their career, and then progress through the aviation industry,” he said.

Outside of aviation, Bailey enjoys staying active and exploring the world with his wife. Whether biking, golfing, or traveling, his passion for adventure continues well beyond the cockpit.

From global missions at 30,000 feet to mentoring students on the ground, Skip Bailey’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to aviation—and to the people who will carry it forward.

For more information about the UNO Aviation Institute and its programs, please visit aviation.unomaha.edu.

 
Follow the Aviation Institute on Instagram, Twitter (X), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Youtube
////No/news/2026/04/skip-bailey-featuredepartmentphone402.554.3424emailunoaviation@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/04/skip-bailey-featureCPACS - Aviation Instituteskip-bailey-feature[Article Heading]From Global Missions to the Classroom: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Lowell “Skip” Bailey Inspires the Next Generation of AviatorsAviation InstituteFrom flying global missions and transporting U.S. Secretaries of Defense aboard the E-4B to leading student pilots at UNO, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Lowell “Skip” Bailey has lived nearly every facet of aviation. Now, he’s channeling 35+ years of experience into shaping the next generation—one student, one flight, and one future career at a time.Apr 14, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1773324000000//news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-1.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-1.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutejames-slabaugh-1.jpg1797991200799James Slabaugh and seaplane/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-2.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-2.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutejames-slabaugh-2.jpg1266691200799James Slabaugh in Kewit/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-3.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-3.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutejames-slabaugh-3.jpg1039471200799James Slabaugh and airplane/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-4.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-4.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutejames-slabaugh-4.jpg1443901200799James Slabaugh and daughter/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-5.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/james-slabaugh-5.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutejames-slabaugh-5.jpg1794771200799James Slabaugh and Kewit Team YouTube

For James Slabaugh, a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Aviation Institute, a career in aviation has grown from instructing in small aircraft around Omaha to flying high-performance business jets across North America. Today, Slabaugh serves as a corporate pilot for the Kiewit Corporation, while also holding the critical role of Safety Manager for the company’s flight department.

In addition to flying, Slabaugh oversees the department’s Safety Management System, which includes programs designed to proactively identify and address operational risks. Among these are the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) and the Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) program—initiatives that collect and analyze operational data to improve safety and decision-making across the flight department.

Despite the significant responsibilities that come with managing safety programs, Slabaugh says the variety of flying remains one of the most rewarding aspects of his job.

“One of the things I really enjoy about my job is that there’s not really a typical day,” Slabaugh said.

Corporate aviation often brings a diverse schedule and destinations. Slabaugh and his colleagues fly to locations throughout North America, with most trips consisting of one or two flight legs per day and lasting around two to three days. Occasionally, trips include downtime between flights, offering a chance to explore a city before returning to the cockpit.

When he’s not flying, much of Slabaugh’s time is spent managing safety operations—reviewing reports, analyzing data, and ensuring that the flight department maintains the highest operational standards.

Slabaugh began building the foundation for his career at UNO, earning his undergraduate degree in aviation in 2010. He credits his time at the university not only for flight training but also for instilling the professional habits necessary to succeed in a competitive aviation industry.

“UNO did a great job of preparing me to be a professional,” Slabaugh said. “Being a few minutes early, arriving prepared for a meeting, communicating clearly in an email, or giving a good presentation may seem insignificant in the aviation world, but they are all opportunities to demonstrate professionalism and set yourself apart from peers.”

After graduating, Slabaugh spent several years working as a flight instructor while also pursuing graduate studies at UNO. During that time, he secured an internship with Kiewit’s flight department—an opportunity that would prove pivotal to his career.

The internship helped him gain valuable experience and connections within the organization. After building additional flight time as a flight instructor, Slabaugh was hired by Kiewit as a First Officer. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming a captain on both aircraft types in the company’s fleet and later being promoted to Safety Manager.

Transitioning from instructing in small single-engine piston aircraft to operating high-performance business jets in busy airspace presented one of the biggest challenges early in his career.

“When I was hired at Kiewit, I had very low flight time compared to many corporate pilots,” Slabaugh said. “It was a huge opportunity, but it was definitely a challenging jump.”

To succeed, Slabaugh dedicated extra time to preparation. He spent hours studying aircraft manuals, reviewing procedures, and preparing for flights. After each trip, he wrote debrief notes to reflect on mistakes and areas for improvement. Combined with mentorship from experienced pilots, that dedication helped him grow quickly in his role.

Looking back, Slabaugh says the journey has been incredibly rewarding.

“It’s been very rewarding to start with as little experience as I did and continue to advance to this point in my career,” he said.

For current aviation students hoping to pursue a similar path, Slabaugh emphasizes the importance of building strong connections within the industry—starting with the people sitting beside them in class.

“Networking is very important, especially in corporate aviation,” he said. “Your UNO classmates will be one of your most important networks after graduation. Find ways to get involved and get to know them—they’ll most likely be the first people you call in the future when looking for a job.”

From flight instructor to corporate captain and safety leader, Slabaugh’s career reflects how preparation, professionalism, and strong relationships can open doors in the aviation industry. 

UNO did a great job of preparing me to be a professional. Being a few minutes early, arriving prepared for a meeting, communicating clearly in an email, or giving a good presentation may seem insignificant in the aviation world, but they are all opportunities to demonstrate professionalism and set yourself apart from peers.James SlabaughLeft

For more information about the UNO Aviation Institute visit aviation.unomaha.edu.

 

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