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Aviation Institute News

Friday, March 13, 2026
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indextrueUNO 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/index6286380217635012930737784784917734211635951770184800000
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 eight students have been selected for the prestigious Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program. The students selected include Adeline “Izzie” Peetz, Calla Behney, Connor Grell, Landon Scott, Leo “Alex” Duman, 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, Landon, Alex, 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, Landon, Alex, 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/
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/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
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes25 students. Eight weeks. Countless aviation career insights.//news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-1.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-1.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-1.png3935911200800Students at Revv Aviation. Revv Aviation/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-2.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-2.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-2.png5317911200800Students at Midwest Aviation. Midwest Aviation/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-3.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-3.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-3.png4681341200800Students at UNO's Simulators. UNO Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-4.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-4.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-4.png4605521200800Students at Union Pacific. Union Pacific/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-5.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-5.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-5.png4940811200800Students at Duncan AviationDuncan Aviation/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-6.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-6.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-6.png4157371200800Students at Revv AviationRevv Aviation/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-7.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-7.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-7.png4274491200800Students at Midwest AviationMidwest Aviation/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-8.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/img/explorers.2026-8.pngCPACS - Aviation Instituteexplorers.2026-8.png5718461200800Students at Midwest AviationMidwest AviationYouTube

The University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute proudly wrapped up another successful year of its Exploring Post program, providing 25 aspiring aviation professionals with immersive, hands-on exposure to the industry. 

Designed as an eight-week experience, the Exploring Post introduces students to career pathways in professional piloting, air traffic control, airport management, aircraft maintenance, and aviation operations. For just $40, participants gained exclusive behind-the-scenes access to aviation organizations, professional mentorship, interactive flight simulation, and industry environments not typically accessible to the public. 

The 2026 program kicked off September 17 at the UNO Thompson Alumni Center, where students and families gathered to learn about the semester’s opportunities and explore the many avenues within aviation and aerospace. From the start, the program emphasized engagement, connection, and real-world insight. 

Throughout the semester, explorers toured and engaged with several regional aviation and transportation leaders, gaining meaningful, behind-the-scenes exposure to real-world operations. At Revv Aviation at Council Bluffs Municipal Airport, students participated in a discovery flight experience, giving many their first opportunity to see the region from the air while learning about flight operations and aircraft handling. At Midwest Aviation at Eppley Airfield, the group toured the company’s hangar facilities, viewed multiple aircraft up close, and visited their national dispatch center to better understand flight coordination and operational logistics. 

A comprehensive visit to Duncan Aviation in Lincoln provided an in-depth look at the full scope of aircraft maintenance and refurbishment. Students toured the expansive facilities, observing maintenance operations, aircraft painting, interior remodeling, and the detailed craftsmanship required to maintain business aviation fleets at the highest standard. 

The group also visited Union Pacific Railroad, where students had the rare opportunity to step aboard the company’s aircraft, which are operated nationally out of Omaha’s Eppley Airfield, offering insight into corporate aviation within a major transportation corporation. 

In addition, explorers toured the national headquarters of Jet Linx Aviation in Omaha, where they saw firsthand how a private aviation company manages dispatch, fuel analysis, scheduling, and day-to-day flight operations. These experiences collectively provided students with a comprehensive view of the many career pathways available within aviation beyond the flight deck. 

Participants also spent dedicated time in the Aviation Institute’s flight simulators on campus, experiencing what it’s like to sit in the pilot’s seat and manage real-world flight scenarios. In addition, students had the opportunity to speak directly with local air traffic controllers, asking questions about daily responsibilities, training pathways, and the critical role ATC plays in maintaining safety and efficiency in the National Airspace System. 

With enrollment limited to just 25 students, the Exploring Post continues to offer a personalized and impactful introduction to aviation careers. By combining hands-on learning, professional interaction, and exclusive site visits, the program empowers students to envision their future in aviation with clarity and confidence. 

As the 2026 Exploring Post concludes, the UNO Aviation Institute remains committed to inspiring the next generation of aviation leaders through accessible, engaging, and career-focused programming. 

For more information about the UNO Aviation Institute and future Exploring Post opportunities, visit aviation.unomaha.edu. 

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/news/2026/02/2026-explorers-post-aviation-institutedepartmentCPACS 120phone402.554.3424emailunoaviation@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/2026-explorers-post-aviation-instituteCPACS - Aviation Institute2026-explorers-post-aviation-instituteUNO Aviation Institute Concludes Successful 2026 Exploring Post Program UNO Aviation Institute Concludes Successful 2026 Exploring Post Program Exploring Post, ExplorersAviation InstituteThe University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute wrapped its 2026 Exploring Post, giving 25 students hands-on aviation career exposure.Feb 23, 2026 12:00 PM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1773378000000//news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-1.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-1.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-lab-1.jpg1124191200800students and drone/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-2.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-2.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-lab-2.jpg903361200800student working on drone/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-3.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-3.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-lab-3.jpg1248121200800Faculty working on drone/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-4.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-4.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-lab-4.jpg1642051200800Students flying drones/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-5.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-5.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-lab-5.jpg2853771200800Drone Lab Graphical Results/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-6.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/drone-lab-6.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-lab-6.jpg2240141200800Drone Lab Graphical ResultsYouTube

Students in the AVN 2500 Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Operations course at the University of Nebraska Omaha Aviation Institute recently completed a hands-on drone lab designed to simulate the real-world processes used in professional unmanned aircraft operations.

The lab provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practical environment while working with industry-standard drone technology. Throughout the exercise, students strengthened their operational and technical skills while learning how unmanned aircraft are used to collect and analyze aerial data.

The course is taught by Assistant Professor Haoruo Fu, whose research focuses on aviation safety, geospatial data analysis, and systems risk analysis. Fu earned his bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science and his master’s degree in Applied Aviation Safety from the Florida Institute of Technology before completing his Ph.D. in the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology at Purdue University. In addition to teaching courses related to UAS operations and capstone research projects, Fu studies topics such as wildlife hazards at airports, airport operational safety, and transportation risk modeling.

During the drone lab, students conducted survey mapping missions by programming their drones to fly specific routes over designated areas. These flights allowed the aircraft to systematically capture aerial images of the terrain from above. Students then used the images collected during their missions to create high-definition composite photographs, similar to the types of geospatial products used by industries such as construction, agriculture, and environmental research.

The lab also exposed students to the complete operational workflow used in many professional unmanned aircraft missions. Before launching their drones, students programmed flight paths and mission parameters using mapping software. Once the flights were completed, they processed the captured imagery to generate detailed composite maps of the areas the aircraft surveyed.

Flights for the class are typically conducted either on the UNO campus or at the Glacier Creek Preserve, a nearby outdoor research and education site that provides open space ideal for flight operations and terrain mapping exercises. The variety of environments allows students to practice drone operations in different conditions while collecting usable aerial data.

By completing the lab, students gain a better understanding of how unmanned aircraft systems are used beyond simple drone flight. The experience emphasizes mission planning, data collection, and post-processing—skills that are increasingly important as industries adopt drone technology for surveying, inspection, mapping, and environmental monitoring.

Through courses like AVN 2500, the Aviation Institute continues to expand opportunities for students to engage with emerging aviation technologies. The drone lab offers a practical introduction to the growing field of unmanned aircraft systems while preparing students for careers that rely on precise aerial data and advanced aviation technology.

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

 
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/news/2026/03/drone-news-featuredepartmentAviation Institutephone402-554-3424emailaviationuno@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community ServicelocationCPACS 120event-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/drone-news-featureCPACS - Aviation Institutedrone-news-feature[Article Heading]UNO Aviation Students Gain Hands-On Experience in Drone Operations LabStudents in the AVN 2500 Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Operations course at the University of Nebraska Omaha Aviation Institute recently completed a hands-on drone lab, where they programmed aircraft to fly survey routes, captured aerial images, and produced high-definition composite maps—gaining experience with the full workflow used in professional UAS operations.UNO Aviation InstituteUNO aviation students took drone operations to the field in a hands-on mapping lab. From flight planning to high-resolution aerial maps, they practiced the full UAS workflow.Mar 13, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1762448400000/images/aviation-safecon-flight-team.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS/images/aviation-safecon-flight-team.jpgCPACSaviation-safecon-flight-team.jpg1141141200800UNO students flight team standing in front of an airplane.///YouTube

Omaha, NE — October 20, 2025 — The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Flight Team, known as the Flying Mavericks, again demonstrated elite performance by capturing 2nd place overall at the 2025 Region VI SAFECON and securing their 17th consecutive bid to the national championship of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA).

Held October 13–18 at St. Louis University – Parks College, the Region VI competition brought together premier collegiate aviation teams from across the Midwest, including University of North Dakota,  Kansas State University – Salina, Minnesota State University–Mankato, University of Central Missouri and University of Dubuque.

UNO’s Flying Mavericks excelled across both the flight and ground events:

  • 2nd Overall in the Region VI SAFECON – 545 points
  • 2nd in Ground Events – 233 points
  • 2nd in Flight Events – 312 points
  • Winner of the Competition Safety Award

The 2025 team roster comprised 14 dedicated students who earned travel spots and competed with focus and professionalism. Team Captains Tyler Thieman and Trevor Denker led the squad, which included: Cullen Leitner, William Skradski, Chloe Schrick, Thomas Reid, Samantha Stojanov, Connor Grell, Alex Duman, Shay Sinnard, Izzie Peetz, Tyler Suing, Zach Nanfito, and Shoichi Yasui.

“Region VI is one of the toughest in the country,” said senior and captain Tyler Thieman. “To place second overall and earn the Safety Award speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence.” Senior pilot Thomas Reid, the team’s top-scoring competitor, added: “This year’s competition was intense, but our preparation paid off. I’m proud of how we worked together and stayed focused under pressure.”

Scott Vlasek, Director of UNO’s Aviation Institute, commented: “This team continues to impress with their dedication, professionalism and competitive spirit. Region VI is one of the toughest in the country, and earning second place overall is a testament to the hard work of our students and coaches.”

Head Coach, Skip Bailey, said: “I’m extremely proud of the way this team performed this week. All 14 members of the team competed very well and I’m excited to see what they can do against the competition at the National SAFECON in May.”

Bailey and Associate Coach Alison Adams guided the Flying Mavericks through months of preparation, blending classroom instruction with rigorous flight training. Their leadership continues to support UNO’s reputation as one of the premier collegiate aviation programs in the nation.

Event Highlights

  • Preflight Inspection: Tyler Thieman 2nd; Zach Nanfito 6th
  • Power-Off Landings: Thomas Reid 3rd; Cullen Leitner 7th; Thieman 12th
  • Short-Field Landings: Team had four top 10 finishes including Leitner 4th; Trevor Denker and Thieman tied for 6th; and Alex Duman 8th
  • Unlimited Navigation: Thieman & Shoichi Yasui 6th; Reid & Duman 7th
  • Message Drop: Leitner & William Skradski 2nd
  • Computer Accuracy: Thieman 3rd; Duman 4th; Leitner 7th; Skradski 8th
  • Aircraft Recognition: Connor Grell 6th; Tyler Suing 7th; Denker 8th
  • Ground Trainer: Reid 2nd; Skradski 12th
  • Simulated Comprehensive Aircraft Navigation (SCAN): Reid 3rd; Chloe Schrick 5th; Shay Sinnard 7th

Looking Ahead

Already setting their sights on the next level, the Flying Mavericks now turn their focus to the 2026 National SAFECON, scheduled for May 18–23, 2026 at the Quad Cities International Airport in Moline, IL. There they will compete against the best collegiate aviation teams in the country.

About UNO’s Aviation Institute & Flying Mavericks

A key element of this success story is the robust program at the UNO Aviation Institute. Since 1990, the institute has propelled students into aviation careers through top-tier flight training and comprehensive academic preparation. The Bachelor of Science in Aviation degree at UNO offers concentrations in Professional Flight, Air Transport Administration and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS).

The Flying Mavericks are sponsored by Jet Linx Aviation and compete annually in NIFA events.

Media Contact

For more information about the Flying Mavericks Flight Team, please contact Skip Bailey at lbaileyjr@unomaha.edu or 402.554.7271. A complete list of results from the 2025 Region VI SAFECON are available on the NIFA website.

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/news/2025/10/safecon-flightteamdepartmentAviation InstitutephoneemailcategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS/news/2025/10/safecon-flightteamCPACSsafecon-flightteamUniversity of Nebraska at Omaha Flight Team Soars to New Heights at 2025 Region VI SAFECONUniversity of Nebraska at Omaha Flight Team Soars to New Heights at 2025 Region VI SAFECONThe UNO Flight Team captured 2nd place overall at the 2025 Region VI SAFECON and secured their bid to the national championship of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA).Scott VlasekThe UNO Flight Team captured 2nd place overall at the 2025 Region VI SAFECON and secured their bid to the national championship of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA).Oct 29, 2025 11:00 AM
Spotlights
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 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 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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/news/2026/03/jamesslabaugh-featuredepartmentAviation Institutephone402-554-3424emailaviationuno@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/jamesslabaugh-featureCPACS - Aviation Institutejamesslabaugh-feature[Article Heading]UNO Aviation Alumnus James Slabaugh Leads with Safety and Professionalism at KiewitUNO Aviation InstituteFrom UNO Aviation to corporate aviation, James Slabaugh now flies for Kiewit Corporation while leading the department’s safety programs.Mar 13, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes/_files/images/victorhuangdrone.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/_files/images/victorhuangdrone.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutevictorhuangdrone.jpg6153941200786Victor Huang///YouTube

At the University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute, Associate Professor Chenyu "Victor" Huang, Ph.D., is helping shape the future of aviation—one student at a time. With a passion rooted in curiosity and a career built on innovation, Huang brings both global perspective and hands-on insight into the classroom.

Huang’s journey into aviation began with a simple but powerful fascination: how flight connects the world. That curiosity quickly grew into a deeper interest in the systems, technology, and safety frameworks that make modern aviation possible. What started as a childhood interest evolved into advanced academic study, eventually leading him to a career that blends research, teaching, and mentorship.

“I’ve always been fascinated by how aviation connects the world,” Huang explains. “The blend of technology, safety, and global impact inspired me to turn that passion into both a career and a calling.”

At UNO, Huang is known for creating an engaging learning environment where students don’t just study aviation—they experience it. He emphasizes the importance of connecting theory to real-world applications, helping students understand how classroom concepts translate into industry practice. For him, the most rewarding part of teaching is watching that transformation happen.

“Seeing students build confidence and begin contributing to the aviation community is incredibly rewarding,” he says.

Beyond the classroom, Huang is deeply committed to mentoring students as they prepare for careers in an ever-evolving industry. His advice is simple but impactful: stay curious and adaptable. In a field driven by rapid technological advancement and global change, he encourages students to embrace lifelong learning as a key to success.

Huang’s influence extends far beyond graduation. One of his proudest moments is seeing former students step into leadership roles across aviation and academia. Knowing he played a role in their journey reflects the lasting impact of his work.

Currently, Huang is focused on research and curriculum development that prepares students for emerging trends in aviation. From advancements in safety systems to the integration of new technologies and global operations, his work ensures that UNO students are equipped to meet the demands of a dynamic industry.

Outside of aviation, Huang brings the same sense of curiosity and exploration into his personal life. Although he is a pilot, he enjoys discovering new places from the ground—taking road trips through unfamiliar destinations around the world. He also finds balance through cooking and playing music, passions that keep him grounded outside of his professional work.

With a blend of expertise, mentorship, and genuine enthusiasm for aviation, Victor Huang continues to leave a lasting mark on the UNO Aviation Institute. For students, both current and incoming, his guidance represents not just education—but opportunity.

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

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/news/2026/02/victor-huang-spotlightdepartmentAviation Institutephone402-554-3424emailunoaviation@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/02/victor-huang-spotlightCPACS - Aviation Institutevictor-huang-spotlight[Article Heading]Faculty Spotlight: Victor Huang Inspires the Next Generation of Aviation LeadersAt the Aviation Institute, Victor Huang combines real-world insight, mentorship, and research to prepare students for evolving aviation careers while emphasizing curiosity and adaptability.Mar 13, 2026 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1773378000000//news/2026/03/img/nick-hinkel-envoy.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/nick-hinkel-envoy.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutenick-hinkel-envoy.jpg2138311200800NIck Hinkel, Envoy Office/news/2026/03/img/nick-hinkel-honors1.pngnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/nick-hinkel-honors1.pngCPACS - Aviation Institutenick-hinkel-honors1.png15637991200800Nick Hinkel, UNO Honors Convocation/news/2026/03/img/nick-hinkel-airport.jpgnavigationYessite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/img/nick-hinkel-airport.jpgCPACS - Aviation Institutenick-hinkel-airport.jpg854161200800Nick Hinkel, AirportYouTube

For many student pilots, the path into aviation begins with a lifelong dream. For senior University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Institute student Nick Hinkel, that passion took shape a little later—but quickly turned into a clear and determined career path.

Hinkel admits he wasn’t always set on aviation. During his senior year of high school, he found himself deciding between engineering and becoming a pilot. That uncertainty changed after a discovery flight in Sioux City. The experience gave him clarity, showing him that a career in aviation offered something far more exciting than a traditional desk job. From that moment on, his direction was set.

After graduating high school, Hinkel wasted no time getting started. He earned his private pilot certificate the summer before arriving at UNO and continued progressing through his training at the Aviation Institute. During his time at UNO, he completed his CFI, CFII, and MEI ratings, building both experience and confidence in the cockpit.

Now a Certified Flight Instructor and CFII at Revv Aviation, Hinkel spends his days helping the next generation of pilots achieve their goals. For him, instructing is about more than logging hours—it’s about mentorship. He values the relationships he builds with his students and takes pride in guiding them through their own aviation journeys.

His dedication and hard work have already opened major doors. Hinkel was selected for the prestigious Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program, a significant step toward a future flying for Southwest Airlines. He describes the opportunity as both an honor and an exciting glimpse into what lies ahead.

In addition, Hinkel has received a job offer from Envoy Air, marking his first official step into the airline industry. Once he reaches 1,000 hours of instruction time, he plans to transition to Envoy, with hopes of relocating to Phoenix or Dallas. From there, he remains open to future opportunities, including potentially joining Southwest or exploring other paths within the industry.

Reflecting on his journey, Hinkel emphasizes the importance of staying focused while also trusting your own path. As he puts it, “Set goals and strive to achieve them. Also don’t compare your path or training with anyone else—embrace your own journey.”

As he enters the final stretch of his senior year, Hinkel stands as a strong example of what determination, adaptability, and passion can accomplish—proving that sometimes, all it takes is one flight to change everything.

 
Set goals and strive to achieve them. Also don’t compare your path or training with anyone else—embrace your own journey.Nick Hinkel

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
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/news/2026/03/nick-hinkel-spotlightdepartmentAviation Institutephone402-554-3424emailunoaviation@unomaha.educategoryCollege of Public Affairs and Community Servicelocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CPACS - Aviation Institute/news/2026/03/nick-hinkel-spotlightCPACS - Aviation Institutenick-hinkel-spotlight[Article Heading]Senior Spotlight: From Discovery Flight to the Flight Deck — Nick Hinkel’s Aviation JourneyFrom a last-minute career decision to the flight deck, one UNO Aviation senior is turning a single discovery flight into a fast-moving future in the airlines.Mar 13, 2026 12:00 AM
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