Professional Provider of the Year

Airman of the Year

Honor Guard Member of the Year

Partnership with Iron County Sheriff's Department

Director / Chief Pilot Iron County Air Operations

SUU Aviation's Chuck Aaron Academy will train pilots to prevent and safely exit unusual attitudes brought on by hazardous weather conditions. Aaron and a select group of SUU's pilots teach others how to navigate these deadly scenarios safely.

Director / Chief Pilot Chuck Aaron Advanced Flight Academy at SUU Aviation

FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (Helicopter)

Iron County Sheriff's Air Operations Division

Helicopter Association International 

Utah Aerospace Pathway Program

Utah Rotor Pathway Program

Southern Utah University is a caring campus community where students come to explore their interests and prepare for meaningful careers and life experiences. With more than 145 undergraduate programs* and 18 graduate and certificate programs across six academic colleges, SUU proudly offers world-class, project-based learning opportunities where students gain professional experience before entering the job market.

Located in the world’s best backyard, SUU is the University of the Parks thanks to its close proximity to several outdoor recreational areas and its educational partnerships with the National Park Service. SUU’s safe, residential campus allows students - more than 10,000 - to create lifelong friendships along with once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventures in conjunction with innovative academic endeavors.

Southern Utah University

PILT 1010 Air Transportation

PILT 1040 Aviation Orientation

PILT 1420 Aircraft Systems

PILT 2050 Aviation Meteorology

PILT 2250 Aerodynamics

PILT 2310 Human Factors and Safety

PILT 2445 RW Mountain Operations Lab

PILT 2455 External Load RW Lab

PILT 2455 RW Utility Operations Lab

PILT 2465 Night Vision Goggle RW Lab

AVTN 3510 Strategic Thinking and Lean Management in Aviation Administration

AVTN 4890 Professional Aviation Internship

AVTN 3500 Quality, Innovation, and Systems Thinking in Aviation Administration

Michael Mower is the executive director, chief flight instructor, and FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (Helicopter DPE) for Southern Utah University's aviation program. Mower brings his years of service in the United States Air Force to the classroom, enriching discussions and interactions with current students. 

During his time in the Air Force, Mower worked in the fuels and cryogenics lab and was the lead instructor for the Honor Guard detachment at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. After leaving the Air Force, Mower started a research and development company specializing in advanced metals and cutting-edge heat-treating protocols. Through this research, Mower has authored or co-authored multiple patents.  

In 2013, Mower started SUU's aviation program with a small staff and 30 students. Under his leadership, the program has grown to 75 instructors, 25 aviation maintenance technicians, 30 administrators, and 1,000 students. He has a skilled and diverse team that can offer instruction on aircraft safety, maintenance, fixed-wing, and rotor wing. The recent growth of the aviation program has made Cedar City Regional Airport the second busiest airport in Utah. The Iron County Sheriff's Air Operation Division is operated by SUU's pilots. The program's instructors assist in aerial surveillance, pursuit, drug interdiction, and search and rescue efforts. 

As a veteran, Mower understands the needs of his student veterans and advocates on their behalf. As an active lobbyist for veterans' rights in Washington, D.C., Mower understands the value of developing mutually beneficial relationships and assembled a team of key senators and representatives. The team Mower has assembled successfully defended veterans' educational benefits for almost a decade and has two pieces of legislation signed into law by the President of the United States.  

Mike Mower trained under Chuck Aaron of Hollywood and Red Bull Fame and is now one of the few pilots in the United States that can perform aerobatic flight in a helicopter. These skills have advanced the curriculum for SUU Aviation students and elite pilots from around the world.

Aviation Education

Helicopter Flight

Helicopter Aerobatic Flight

FAA Regulations

Inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IIMC)

Tactical Flight

Intergovernmental relations

Federal Lobbying

Military/VA Benefits

Veteran Services

Cockpit Research Management

Aviation History

Aviation Safety and Training

Pilot Training

Aerial Search and Rescue

Commercial Aviation

Weather Development Patterns and Aviation Hazards

Physiological, Psychological, & Enviromental Factors on Pilot Performance

SUU Aviation

SUU Profile

‘We remember’: How Southern Utah University is paying tribute to 9/11 anniversary

What to expect from final NTSB report at 1-year anniversary mark for Kobe Bryant’s deadly helicopter crash

SUU approves creation of new college for expanding aviation program

Marshall partners with SUU to explore opportunities in aviation

Sundance Helicopters Partners with Southern Utah University for SkyPath Helicopter Pilot Development Initiative

SUU Aviation Assists In SAR Of Lost Snowshoers

Lost southern Utah snowshoers rescued by SUU pilots

Episode 29: SUU Aviation - Meeting the Needs of Students and Industry with Mike Mower

Giving them wings: SUU partnership invites women into aviation

Southern Utah University's Aviation Program Has Students Job-Ready With State of The Art Planes

Southern Utah University Student Aviators Take to the Skies When Calls for Help go Out

SUU Aviation Working to Change FAA Curriculum

SUU aviation program buys 17 new, safer aircrafts for students

Utah Flight Programs Increase Fleets, Partner with Airlines to Meet 'Insatiable' Demand for Pilots

Aviation Program Expands at Southern Utah University

SUU Aviation partners with SkyWest Airlines

Pilots Deputized to Aid Iron County Sheriff’s Office

Southern Utah University celebrates in high-flying fashion Sept. 30 with the unveiling of 17 new aircraft. The event offers the community an opportunity to view new airplanes and helicopters, participate in flight simulation experiences, and enjoy a live music concert at the hangar. 

SUU Unveils 17 New Aircraft with Community Celebration

November is Aviation History Month.  It is told that it was on this month in 1782 that the Montgolfier brothers of France invented the first hot-air balloon. Soon after, people were able to leave the ground and take to the skies for travel.  235 years later, a lot has changed – but perhaps not our curiosity for how high and how far we can go.

But what does the future of flight look like?  Will it be solar powered? Will it be to space and back and who will drive the next generation of technology?  Elon Musk is leading the way, but he’s merely one of many looking to revolutionize and capitalize on our need to travel.

There are a lot of questions about what the future of flight will be – and that’s where the experts from Southern Utah University can help.

Michael Mower is the executive director and chief flight instructor for SUU's aviation program.  His years of service and experience in the United States Air Force and as a commercial pilot have made him a renowned expert in the aviation field. Michael is well known with media and available for an interview – simply visit his profile to arrange a time.

The Future of Flight – What’s Next for Commercial Aviation?

President Wyatt and Steve Meredith talk with Mike Mower, the executive director and chief flight instructor in SUU's Aviation Program.  

Solutions for Higher Education, Episode 29: SUU Aviation - Meeting the Needs of Students and the Industry

Recently on Solutions for Higher Education, Southern Utah University President Scott L Wyatt and Michael Mower, executive director and chief flight instructor for Southern Utah University Aviation, discussed the ever-changing and growing aviation industry.  

Once the easiest path to becoming a pilot, the Air Force has scaled back the number of pilots they are producing, and according to Mower, “the ones they do produce—because of just the sheer cost associated with generating a military pilot—they're now paying more and more to retain.”

With the military not producing the quantity that it once did, the demand has shifted to civilian flight schools.
“The industry in and of itself has really fundamentally changed in the last decade. We have, from an airline standpoint, Delta and United. 10 years ago, that was it. When we evaluate the marketplace now, there are carriers the same size as Delta, United, American, that simply didn't exist 10 years ago. The mid-east has exploded from just a sheer need of air transportation, and that in conjunction with this growing retirement of not only pilots and mechanics, created this perfect storm.”

Currently, the United States has around 600,000 licensed airplane pilots and around 15,000 helicopter pilots. 
“Boeing projects over the next 18 years that they'll need over 600,000 pilots. Airbus is around 500,000, and they comprise the majority of the commercial airline. On the maintenance side, they're projecting almost 700,000—this is Boeing—Airbus is again about 500,000. And then on cabin crew, it's closer to 2 million between those two companies. In just the next 18 years.” 

“So, we look at what we currently have and has taken us generations to generate, we are not even going to be close to hitting these targets. The only way that we can even come close to these is expanding the reach, expanding the demographic, and really letting folks know that this is a viable, well-paying career and it is really open to everybody.”

Michael Mower’s years of service and experience in the United States Air Force and as a commercial pilot has made him a renowned expert in the aviation field. Mower is well known with media and available for an interview – simply visit his profile to arrange a time.

Aviation Education - Meeting the Needs of Students and the Industry

helicopter pilot and trainer, United States Air Force veteran

Michael Mower

Power of Place 2023

Jeffery Duban Visit 2020

suu-commemorates-20th-anniversary-of-september-11-attacks

Executive Director of SUU Aviation / Chief Flight Instructor / FAA Designated Pilot Examiner

Southern Utah University’s Veterans Resource and Support Center will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks on Friday, September 10, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. on the University’s Library Quad. The program will include an aviation flyover, remarks from veterans and a special musical number.“This event is to pay tribute to a day in history that will always be remembered,” said Mike Miller, director of SUU’s Veterans Resource and Support Center. “We will never forget all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. We are grateful to our first responders, military, and veteran communities that continue to provide opportunity, safety, and security for our nation, community, and campus.”SUU’s Aviation Department will begin the tribute with a 13 helicopter flyover to honor the 13 service members recently killed in Afghanistan. In addition, they will perform the missing man formation as an aerial salute to those who will never return home.“It’s important to reflect on the devastating attacks that took place on 9/11, but also give thanks to the brave men and women who have been putting their lives at risk for the last 20 years,” said Micheal Mower, executive director and chief flight instructor of SUU's Aviation Program. “We will honor those whose lives were lost and those who returned home.”

SUU Commemorates 20th Anniversary of September 11 Attacks

the-first-collegiate-helicopter-upset-recovery-advanced-instrument-training-in-the-world

A Living Legend of Aviation, helicopter pilot Chuck Aaron and his advanced flight academy will become part of Southern Utah University to offer the only collegiate helicopter upset recovery and advanced instrument flight training in the world. The advanced training will give industry professionals the chance to learn the critical decision making and flight skills necessary to handle less than ideal weather and visibility conditions."Chuck Aaron's addition to SUU Aerospace represents a significant leap in our training capabilities," said Michael Mower, executive director of SUU Aviation. "Chuck brings almost five decades of experience, including work with NASA's Space Shuttle program, the US Army's Apache test pilot Targeting System (TADDS-PNVS) program, various movies, and as the Red Bull helicopter pilot. His research into advanced flight and safety techniques will allow SUU Aerospace to advance Chuck's already groundbreaking work further."Aaron is the only pilot in the world licensed by the FAA to teach &amp; perform helicopter aerobatics and the only one of two teaching upset recovery training in a helicopter. Among many accomplishments, Aaron was the first Red Bull helicopter Aerobatic pilot starting in 2005 and a recognized experimental test pilot by the prestigious SETP in 2011. In 2019, Aaron opened a helicopter aerobatics flight school and began offering the first and only upset recovery training program in the world, not using a simulator. The Chuck Aaron Academy at SUU is in development and will be available for pilots in the coming months.There have been several high profile accidents in the last few years that resulted from pilots flying into low visibility conditions. SUU Aviation's Chuck Aaron Academy will train these pilots to prevent and safely exit unusual attitudes brought on by hazardous weather conditions.Aaron and a select group of SUU's pilots will teach others how to navigate these deadly scenarios safely. Aaron's training and this specialized helicopter will allow SUU and The Chuck Aaron Academy to advance research into safety of flight and ground initiatives that had never been contemplated."We will be incorporating this advanced training into our short term, intensive programs," said Mower. "The flight portions of these programs are geared toward pilots already in the industry. While our students will not directly participate in the flight portion of the training, the aeronautical knowledge that Chuck brings to the program will be incorporated into all aspects of our ground training. This transfer of knowledge ensures that Chuck Aaron's legacy is passed on to the next generation of aviators."Michael Mower’s years of service and experience in the United States Air Force and as a commercial pilot have made him a renowned expert in the aviation field. Mower is well known with media and available for an interview – simply visit his profile to arrange a time.

The First Collegiate Helicopter Upset Recovery & Advanced Instrument Training in the World

faa-approves-aviation-maintenance-technician-program

Director of Global Aviation Maintenance Training

The federal government has given final approval to Southern Utah University’s expansion of its aviation program. On December 31, 2019, the Federal Aviation Administration granted final approval for a Part 147 certificate allowing SUU to offer Airframe and Powerplant (A&amp;P) licenses to students upon successful completion of the academic program requirements and independent testing by a Designated Maintenance Examiner (DME).“Historic changes are now underway,” said Michael Mower, executive director of SUU Aviation. “For the first time ever, an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) training program to include helicopters is launching at SUU this semester. We worked with our partners in the industry, Washington, DC, and the Federal Aviation Administration to make this happen.”A national leader in aviation education, SUU currently trains 10 percent of the nation’s helicopter pilots and a significant number of fixed-wing pilots. With this approval, SUU Aviation is expanding its offerings and will begin training maintenance technicians through the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Program in spring 2020. SUU’s AMT Program is the most up-to-date in the nation, with the curriculum stemming from the Promoting Aviation Regulations for Technical Training (PARTT) 147 Act  that was introduced to the House of Representatives and Senate in December 2019. It's also the only A&amp;P program with helicopter maintenance used as the curriculum focus while still covering airplane maintenance. The program is designed to be completed in five consecutive semesters, resulting in an associate degree and A&amp;P license.“This AAS degree program is one of a kind, and I am excited to finally have it certified by the FAA and accepting students,” said Jared Britt, director of global aviation maintenance training at SUU. “It has taken a lot of hard work by the entire aviation team, and we expect to become one of the largest AMT programs over the next few years.”Through the AMT Program, SUU hopes to contribute to the growing demand for aviation mechanics across the country. In the 2016 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook, it was estimated there will be a need for 180,000 new A&amp;P Mechanics in North America by 2035. With the shortage of maintenance technicians, regional employers are eager to support and hire graduates of the program and have been crucial to the program’s approval. With the current demand, and an average starting wage of $52,000, these graduates can look forward to a greater and faster return than most on their educational investment. The first cohort of students will begin the AMT program in spring 2020. Currently, the building capacity is 250 students, but an additional building and training equipment to accommodate 1000 students are part of future plans. More than 600 students from around the world study at the SUU Aviation program, which includes a fleet of 16 airplanes, 16 helicopters and state of the art facilities. With the recent creation of the College of Aerospace Science and Technology, SUU continues to place emphasis on aviation.

FAA Approves Aviation Maintenance Technician Program

Helping you choose which major to study and ultimately jumpstarting your college career, SUU is here with the unbiased opinion on each of its majors. This video highlights what an aviation student will experience in the classroom, what careers are available and what types of student excel from the perspective of SUU's Mike Mower, aviation program director. SUU's Aviation program has increased in quality with the partnership of Sky West, offering tuition reimbursement and a career in aviation upon graduation. 

Located in Cedar City, Southern Utah University is in the heart of Utah's color country region. Distinguished above others for its focus on personalized education, SUU prepares its students to achieve excellence in their chosen field and create positive change in the world. 

http://www.suu.edu

Southern Utah University
351 West University Boulevard
Cedar City, UT 84720
435.586.7700

Mike Mower, aviation director

Major Decisions: Aviation

The aviation program at Southern Utah University is about to expand in a big way. The school recently announced a major purchase of new planes that students and instructors will use to meet the demands of the growing airline industry.

Aired 3/12/17 at 10 p.m.

KSL covers the aviation program expansion, interviewing Mike Mower

Southern Utah University to expand aviation program

ABC 4: Southern Utah University has partnered with SkyWest Airlines to better the aviation program and provide new scholarships for aviation students.

http://www.suu.edu

Southern Utah University
351 West University Boulevard
Cedar City, UT 84720
435.586.7700

SkyWest partnership allows job security for aviation students

In the News: SUU and SkyWest Partner for Aviation Program

KUTV: Southern Utah University is bringing the school's aviation program under its wing. The program is looking to become better for not only the school, but also the students.

http://www.suu.edu

Southern Utah University
351 West University Boulevard
Cedar City, UT 84720
435.586.7700

Mike Mower United States Air Force veteran

In the News: SUU Aviation Program Being Brought In-House

The new partnership is geared to help aviation students pay for flight training costs and put them on the pathway to becoming a professional pilot with SkyWest. In addition to the tuition reimbursement, SkyWest will also provide student pilots with access to pilot mentors and other outreach programs. Ladd Egan reports. 

Story aired Sept. 29, 2016 at 5 p.m.

Mike Mower, Ellen Treanor

Southern Utah University, Skywest partner to help pilots succeed

ABC 4: Less than 6 percent of pilots globally are women and Southern Utah University is trying to change that.
"I fly single engine, multi-engine, jets, helicopters, military aircraft, and some old warbirds. So I love flying!," said Rachelle Spector, Founder and President of the I Hart Flying Foundation.
When Spector discovered her love of flying seven years ago she says she faced unique challenges as a female pilot. 
"It goes way beyond just a male-dominated profession. It's the old boys club where women weren't allowed," said Spector. 
"I think historically this has been seen as the domain of men. And it's unfortunate. It's not. Women in the training realm tend to learn and respond much faster than their male counterparts," said Michael Mower, Executive Director and Chief Flight Instructor at Southern Utah University.
Spector set out to help other women receive their wings and began the I Hart Flying Foundation - offering scholarships to help young women reach their aviation goals.
"What are young girls going to see when they see men, men, men, and they don't know that they have this option for being a pilot, for being an aircraft mechanic, or aerospace engineering," said Spector.
Southern Utah University has partnered with I Hart Flying.
"Getting more women to realize this is a great and viable career. Just Boeing alone needs over 600,000 pilots in the next 20 years.
The helicopter industry is 40,000 short. There is no possible way right now for the current infrastructure to meet global demand," said Mower. 
"There are so many job opportunities available for these young girls,  and women don't understand they are there and available to them," said Spector.

You can find more information about I Hart Flying here: https://www.ihartflying.org/.

http://www.good4utah.com/news/local-news/southern-utah-university-flight-school-working-to-train-more-female-pilots/1223385593

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http://www.suu.edu
Southern Utah University
351 West University Boulevard
Cedar City, UT 84720
435.586.7700

In the News: Southern Utah University Flight School working to train more female pilots, ABC 4

Michael Mower, the head of SUU Aviation, breaks down the success of the program; how it's grown into one of, if not the, most respectable aviation program in the country, and the entrepreneurial journey he took to get there!

Michael Mower | SUU Entrepreneurship Speaker Series

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