Aeronautics

The Flight and Aviation pathway opens doors to one of the most exciting and fast-growing career fields in Kentucky and beyond. Students will gain foundational knowledge in aerodynamics, navigation, flight operations, and cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of air travel and aerospace innovation.

By choosing this pathway, students don’t just study aviation—they prepare to take flight in careers that keep Kentucky at the forefront of aerospace and aviation.

The Unmanned Aircraft Systems pathway is new for the state of Kentucky. The IMPACT Center will certify students to be drone pilots, which is a growing career in a number of different fields. 

"In Flight and Aviation, students will complete the first phase of aviation training leading to a commercial pilot license. They will gain technical knowledge and skills in the flying and navigation of commercial passenger and cargo, agricultural, public service, corporate aircraft flight systems and controls, flight crew operations and procedures, radio communications, navigation procedures and systems, airways safety and traffic regulations, and governmental rules and regulations pertaining to piloting aircraft." 

"The Aerospace Engineering pathway prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of aircraft, space vehicles, and their systems; applied research on flight characteristics; and the development of systems and procedures for the launching, guiding, and controlling of air and space vehicles. Aerospace engineers primarily design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. In addition, they test prototypes to ensure they function according to design." 

• EKU Bachelor of Science in Aviation 

• EKU Aviation Concentrations

  • Unmanned Aircraft Systems

  • Aviation

  • Aerospace Management 

• Students will have the ability to take courses through EKU's Aviation Program as Dual Credit. Courses include (but are not limited to) 

  • EKU AVN 150 Introduction to Aviation 

  • EKU AVN 105 UAS Safety & Regulations

  • EKU AVN 250 Air Transportation

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drone Pilots): With industries like agriculture, emergency response, construction, and logistics rapidly adopting drone technology, certified drone pilots are in high demand. Kentucky companies are hiring UAS operators for surveying, inspections, mapping, and delivery services.

• Military Drone Pilot – $60,000

• Surveying & Mapping Engineer Specialist- $100,000

• Law Enforcement / Public Safety Drone Pilot- $55,000

•  Agriculture Drone Pilot- $55,000

• Commercial Drone Pilot- $55,000   

Aerospace Engineers: Kentucky is home to a thriving aerospace industry, with major employers in aircraft manufacturing, defense systems, and research. Aerospace engineers design and improve aircraft, spacecraft, and propulsion systems, helping lead the state’s growing role in aerospace innovation.

• • Aerospace Engineer – $107,730

  • Mechanical Engineer – $93,296

  • Electrical Engineer – $98,030

  • Aeronautical Engineer- $75,000

  • Flight Test Engineer- $85,000

Flight and Aviation: Whether flying commercial airlines, charter planes, or working in corporate aviation, pilots are essential to Kentucky’s connectivity and commerce. Training in this pathway provides a launchpad toward the flight hours, certifications, and advanced education needed to pursue professional piloting careers.

• • Commercial Airline Pilot – $102,480

  • Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician – $60,000

  • Aircraft Inspector – $82,460

  • Air Traffic Controller- $80,000

  • Commercial Jet Pilot- $70,000

• AOPA Curriculum 

• Engineering by Design (ITEEA)

Curriculum supports (textbooks, modules, simulations, etc.) are still being added to all academies. Stay tuned for updates!