New aviation center to strengthen Auburn University programs, boost the industry and state economy

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Auburn University is elevating its aviation program by establishing a center that will serve as a focal point for instruction, research and outreach and support the aviation and aerospace industries.

The center will strengthen academic and research programs, recruit industry to Alabama, improve flight operations and training and collaborate with other colleges and universities, particularly in workforce development efforts.

“We’re building a more robust, visionary aviation program that creates opportunities for students and fosters economic development in the state,” said Bill Hutto, director of the Auburn University Regional Airport and a member of the aviation faculty in the Harbert College of Business.

Auburn Provost Tim Boosinger named Hutto as director of the center, which will be located at the airport.

The center will oversee Auburn’s flight school and work closely with the Harbert College of Business on the professional flight management and aviation management degree programs. Students will see more opportunities to follow industry trends, changes and priorities and interact with potential employers.

“Auburn will support state leaders in recruiting new aviation and aerospace industry, retaining industry already in Alabama and renewing industry through research and innovation,” said Seth Hammett, a member of the new center’s steering committee. Hammett, an experienced pilot and flight instructor, has been a key player in state economic development efforts for many years, both as a former speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives and currently as Gov. Robert Bentley’s chief of staff.

The steering committee will provide strategic guidance and is comprised of university, industry and government representatives. In addition to Hammett, it includes former Federal Aviation Administration official John McGraw, who chairs the Auburn Aviation Management Advisory Board and leads regulatory affairs at the National Air Transportation Association.

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Auburn University is a nationally ranked land grant institution recognized for its commitment to world-class scholarship, interdisciplinary research with an elite, top-tier Carnegie R1 classification, life-changing outreach with Carnegie’s Community Engagement designation and an undergraduate education experience second to none. Auburn is home to more than 30,000 students, and its faculty and research partners collaborate to develop and deliver meaningful scholarship, science and technology-based advancements that meet pressing regional, national and global needs. Auburn’s commitment to active student engagement, professional success and public/private partnership drives a growing reputation for outreach and extension that delivers broad economic, health and societal impact.