AVIATION

Vaughn Aviation Graduates Succeed in the Air and on the Ground

Aviation is constantly changing―and our programs and degrees are constantly evolving to adhere to the ever-evolving field and career paths. Are you seeking a career as a pilot? Take flight with an aviation degree from Vaughn College. Whether your passion is in the clouds sitting in the front seat of the plane, on the ground as a flight instructor, or behind the latest technology as an aviation researcher or accident investigator―Vaughn College has the tools, the mentors and the opportunities to get you there.

Vaughn College offers certificates and programs, associate and bachelor’s degrees fit for the diverse interests of our students. Whether your are taking flight for the first time or are interested in expanding your skill set in the field, our industry-focused curriculum, staff of aviation experts and opportunities to gain real-life experience sets each student up for a successful career.

Meet the Department Chair

Dr. Peter Russo, chair of the aviation department and assistant professor at Vaughn College, is passionate about the aviation experience and what it offers to young students entering the professional arena. Dr. Russo started his career in the U.S. Air Force, where he was trained as a pilot. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a unit commander and director of operations. After his time in the military, he worked for a commercial and cargo airline. He then went to work at JetBlue Airways, where he flew the Airbus A-320 and held the post of system chief pilot. He taught at aviation colleges part-time, focusing on safety, aircraft operations and crew resource management. He has developed inspection processes and published several articles in leading aviation journals. He trained as an engineer and received his doctorate in aviation safety from the Union Institute and University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Russo’s passion for aviation shines through and he instills this same passion in his students and everyone on campus.

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Aviation Training Institute and Vice President of Training

Vaughn College is also well known for its Aviation Training Institute (ATI), which is led by the Vice President of Training Domenic Proscia. Over the last 19 years, he has been responsible for providing academic and administrative leadership and support in all aviation programs at Vaughn College. His strategic objective is to provide a transformational teaching and learning environment, and to create a unique Vaughn academic experience that engages faculty and students.

Proscia has created a level of aviation maintenance training at Vaughn that allows students to cross-train with other disciplines such as engineering, not typically accessible to students at other colleges. The curriculum was designed to prepare students for high paying and in demand careers with the tools, modern technology, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to be successful in a variety of maintenance careers. Graduates go on to work in the utility, transportation and aviation arenas at companies such as the Metropolitan Transit Authority, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Con Edison, the Long Island Rail Road and major airlines such as Atlas Air (cargo), American Airlines, Delta Air Lines among others.