MTSU Mondays: Aerospace Soars at EAA AirVenture Again

MTSU Aerospace Program Makes a Strong Return to EAA AirVenture

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) made a notable return to the EAA AirVenture event in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, showcasing its strong presence in the aviation world. This annual gathering is considered the largest event for aviation enthusiasts globally, drawing participants from over 100 countries and featuring more than 10,000 aircraft.

Provost Mark Byrnes and Greg Van Patten, dean of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, led a team of students and flight instructors to the event. Their goal was to engage with alumni, prospective students, and key figures in the aviation industry. Byrnes emphasized that MTSU has one of the top collegiate aviation programs in the country, and participating in EAA allows students, faculty, and instructors to interact with professionals from around the world.

The 72nd edition of EAA AirVenture was expected to draw nearly 700,000 attendees and featured a wide range of aviation experiences, from flight cars to fighter jets. The event is often described as "flight’s Disney World," offering a mix of spectacle and innovation in the aeronautics field.

During the week, MTSU hosted an alumni BBQ on July 23 at their tent located behind the air traffic control tower at Wittman Regional Airport. This location becomes the busiest in the world during the event, highlighting the university's commitment to engaging with the aviation community.

The MTSU team also met with several aviation partners and vendors, including Diamond Aircraft, which supplies the majority of MTSU’s training fleet with 38 DA-40 aircraft. Additionally, they connected with Piper and Cirrus, whose planes are also used by MTSU students.

Byrnes and Van Patten also had discussions with leaders from Delta and Southwest Airlines, who have established flight training partnerships with MTSU. Students selected for programs like Delta Propel or Southwest Destination 225 gain fast-track opportunities to jobs with these major carriers upon graduation.

Maj. Gen. Regena Aye, national commander of the Civil Air Patrol, gave Van Patten a tour of the CAP’s National Blue Beret activity at EAA AirVenture. Since 2014, the Civil Air Patrol has partnered with MTSU, providing cadets and adult members to assist with ground operations during the event.

Van Patten expressed his enthusiasm for attending EAA each year, stating that it offers valuable opportunities to connect with prospective students, alumni, supporters, and partners who contribute to the success of MTSU’s aerospace program.

Jonathan Quinby, a junior in the Aerospace Pro Pilot program, and Hailey Harrison, a recent graduate and current flight instructor, were featured on two broadcasts of Oshkosh Live. Quinby gave a tour of the MTSU tent and a DA-40 training aircraft displayed at the event. Harrison joined Byrnes at the anchor desk to discuss the Aerospace program.

Harrison shared her experience of choosing MTSU for its affordability and prestige, calling it a great choice for flight training. She highlighted the university’s strong program and the support she received throughout her studies.

Van Patten looks forward to EAA each year as a chance to reconnect with the broader aviation community and promote MTSU’s aerospace education. The event serves as a platform for students to gain exposure, network, and learn about the latest developments in the aviation industry.

Through its participation in EAA AirVenture, MTSU continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading institution in aviation education, offering students unique opportunities to engage with industry leaders and gain real-world experience.