Administration (FAA) standards while incorporating forward-thinking approaches to technical education. “Our curriculum has to align with FAA standards. It’s a set curriculum that matches what they say we need to teach in lectures, lab, and projects,” Pavkovich explains.“But we do things differently. We’re unique in that we focus more on the future.” This future-oriented approach manifests in how students learn. “Instead of working out of books, we’ve tailored the program to be more in line with where the industry is going. We run all our programming online. Students still must be there physically, but they’re doing virtual paperwork just like you would in the industry with virtual logbooks,” says Pavkovich. The program maintains this balance between digital instruction and hands-on practice, reflecting the evolving nature of aviation maintenance. As aircraft incorporate more composite materials and sophisticated electronics, maintenance professionals need broader technical knowledge than ever before. CREATING CAREER-READY PROFESSIONALS Saint Francis University distinguishes its aviation programs through industry-aligned equipment and training methodologies that prioritize career readiness. “We actually have a cool donation from SkyWest Airlines; a CRJ 200 which is an airframe that’s currently still being used in the industry,” Pavkovich says. “It’s very current technology, as are our CF 34 engines that we teach our students on. If you’re going to one of the regional airlines, you’re probably going to use the equipment that you’re learning on here.” This access to contemporary aircraft systems offers students practical experience with the same technologies they’ll encounter in their careers. Industry partnerships like the one with SkyWest are increasingly vital as airlines face unprecedented maintenance backlogs following pandemic-related workforce reductions and subsequent travel surges. In flight training, the program balances traditional instruction with modern avionics exposure. “We 85 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY AVIATION PROGRAMS
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx