Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) and Aviate Flight School have partnered to launch the region’s first Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) program, providing a direct pathway for aspiring pilots to enter the aviation industry.
As the nation faces a growing shortage of professional pilots, the PAC program was intentionally designed to help meet industry demand through focused training aligned to FAA certification requirements. The non-degree program combines classroom instruction, simulation, and flight training through a structured, cohort-based model that prepares students to earn FAA certifications and pursue professional pilot careers.
Students may choose to pair the program with additional coursework or an area of study that complements their aviation training, depending on their career goals. Depending on certification goals and pace, students may complete the program in 12 to 16 months. Previous flight time and successful course completion can quicken the program.
“We built this program to leverage the structure and rigor of collegiate aviation training while aligning with NWTC’s commitment to accessible, affordable, local education,” said Dr. Christopher Johnson, the program architect and former professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. “Unlike traditional aviation pathways that pair flight training with broader degree requirements, this program intentionally focuses on the federal licenses and flight preparation students need to pursue professional pilot careers.”
Students will split their time training between NWTC’s Green Bay campus and Aviate Flight School’s facility at Austin Straubel International Airport (KGRB).
Weekly instruction includes 15–20 hours of classroom learning, one-on-one instruction, simulator training, and aircraft-based experience, preparing students to earn all of FAA certifications to become professional aviators, including:
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Instrument Flight Rating (IFR)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Optionally, students can also earn these additional ratings in the program:
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
- Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII), and
- Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
“Northwest Wisconsin employers—and industries across the country—continue to face workforce shortages, and aviation is no exception,” said Jim Draeger, Dean of NWTC’s Corporate Training & Economic Development. “This partnership creates a clear, local pathway for students who want to become professional pilots while providing the focused, high-quality training needed to prepare them for the realities and responsibilities of the profession.”
“The goal was to create a focused pathway for students who know they want to become professional pilots—while making pilot training more accessible, affordable, and efficient without sacrificing safety or quality,” Johnson said. “Developed over several years in partnership with NWTC, the program is intentionally designed around one outcome: preparing well-trained, highly skilled pilots for the profession.”
The PAC program is set to begin in Fall 2026. With limited seats available, students are encouraged to apply now.
An open house was held on Tuesday, June 10 at Aviate Flight School for the public to explore the PAC program, connect with aviation professionals, and learn more about career opportunities in aviation.
For more information and to apply online, please visit Aviate Flight School.
Learn more about workforce training and industry partnerships available through NWTC's Corporate Training & Economic Development.
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About Aviate Flight School:
Aviate Flight School’s mission is to make aviation accessible, enjoyable, and rewarding for every student who walks through the doors. It was built to help aspiring pilots achieve their dreams through professional, personalized flight training. Based at Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Aviate offers a supportive and safety-focused environment led by experienced instructors. Whether you’re pursuing a private pilot license or advancing your skills, we provide high-quality instruction using our trusted Cessna 172.
