Anne Boettcher

The 2017 Industry Advisory Board meeting focused on key areas for improvement in Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's aviation programs. Discussions included graduate performance comparisons, program mission goals (adding safety as a goal), technological advancements in the industry, curriculum emphasis, internship opportunities, resume qualifications desired by employers, and the pilot shortage. Specific areas of focus included major airlines, regional airlines, helicopter operations, UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems), meteorology, and safety. The meeting also covered capital investment in student training, the removal of US citizenship requirements for the BS-UAS major, and program visibility strategies.

The College of Aviation held its annual Industry Advisory Board meeting. The meeting included program briefings from various departments (Applied Aviation Sciences, Aeronautical Science, Aeronautical Science (Flight), and Safety), a group discussion, and breakout sessions for each program area. Breakout sessions focused on curriculum improvements, strategic planning, and industry feedback. Key discussion points included upset recovery training, mission statement revisions, new certification and energy management courses, capstone series revisions, admission standards, and the need for a CRJ-like FTD. The Rotary Wing breakout session addressed challenges due to the loss of VA funding and explored options for degree programs. The Applied Meteorology breakout session covered student exposure to National Blend of Models, potential senior thesis topics, programming languages (Python vs. Matlab), and GIS integration. The Unmanned breakout session discussed partnerships and equipment needs (LIDAR). The Safety Sciences breakout session focused on human factors, integration with the School of Business, case studies, accident investigation, and utilizing new technologies. Action items from the previous year's IAB were reviewed, and progress was reported on several initiatives.

The College of Aviation held its annual Industry Advisory Board, covering various program briefings, a career services overview, and group discussions. Breakout sessions focused on specific areas like airlines, helicopters, UAS, meteorology, and safety, addressing topics such as technological advancements (EFBs, SATCOM, DATACOM), safety goals, leadership skills, and internship opportunities. Recommendations included incorporating SMS into the curriculum, increasing scenario-based training, and improving communication with the IAB. The Helicopter program emphasized soft skills, safety, and business management. The Safety program highlighted the need for updated course material, increased industry interaction, and improved program visibility. The Meteorology program discussed employment trends, data science skills, and communication techniques. The UAS program focused on interdisciplinary projects and real-life scenario-based training.

The 2020 Industry Advisory Board meeting focused on curriculum improvements and student professional development across various aviation programs. Key discussion points included technological advancements in the industry (CPDLC, RNP, automation), top industry issues (pilot shortage, leadership development, communication skills), meteorological skillsets, and the importance of soft skills and professionalism. Recommendations included incorporating scenario-based training, improving weather product knowledge, enhancing communication skills, and strengthening internship opportunities. Program adjustments were suggested, such as renaming the Aeronautics program to "Applied Aviation Studies" and adding SMS certification options. The need for increased resources for the UAS program was also highlighted.