Ohio State, Ohio Regional Group Partner on Aviation Education Initiative

Feb 5., 2015

The Ohio Regional Business Aviation Association (ORBAA) is partnering with Ohio State University’s (OSU) Center for Aviation Studies to launch a program that will enable aviation seniors at OSU to work with ORBAA member companies on “real world” business issues.

“It’s the next big step,” said ORBAA board member Lisa Swartzwelder. “One of the association’s three pillars is business aviation workforce development, and this will help provide a continuing flow of experienced, work-ready new employees.” She said the idea was born when ORBAA’s guest lecturers at OSU realized aviation students were familiar with military and airline flying, but knew little about business aviation careers. By connecting ORBAA members to aviation universities and communities in the state, it is hoped that more internships and career opportunities will be created for aviation students.

Under the new program, OSU aviation students will spend a semester working on projects with ORBAA member companies, with full access to company employees for assistance and networking. There are now 40 OSU seniors participating in the new cooperative effort.

As an example of real-world work experience, OSU seniors are creating a “Where In Ohio” database, in which they are identifying and cataloging aviation assets statewide for use by economic development officials to attract new businesses to Ohio. An interactive web program will make database access easy.

“It’s an opportunity for them to demonstrate their professional competence and communications skills,” explained Jim Oppermann, who conducts the semester-long OSU aviation course. “They’re using computer programs and business models, case studies and research to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Those skills are key to success in industry.”

Swartzwelder sees a long-term benefit for both the industry and the state economy. “We’re giving back to the community by providing opportunities for new aviation professionals, both in and out of classrooms,” she said, adding that ORBAA is also asking its members to get involved with aviation programs at other local colleges and universities.

“Ohio officials know that aviation is an asset in the state, but they don’t always understand its true scope,” said Bob Quinn, NBAA’s central regional representative. “ORBAA is helping them understand.”