Dean, College of Aviation

Dean, College of Aviation

Western Michigan University seeks an experienced and accomplished leader to serve as Dean of the College of Aviation. Reporting to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the dean is responsible for providing visionary and innovative leadership and effective administration, while advancing the mission of the College. The dean will have responsibility for developing a collegial environment and will recognize the importance of consensus building, interdisciplinary collaboration, partnerships, student success, alumni relations, and external funding in defining the College’s role in the broader mission of the University. The dean serves on the Provost’s Council, which is engaged in university-wide policy and planning.

Western Michigan University (WMU) is an institution on the move. Located in Southwest Michigan, WMU is a vibrant, nationally recognized student-centered research institution with an enrollment of over 19,000. WMU delivers high-quality undergraduate instruction, has a strong graduate division, and fosters significant research activities. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies WMU as a doctoral university and one of just 185 public universities in the nation conducting research at a high level. U.S. News & World Report has named WMU among the country’s best national universities since 1991.

The College of Aviation at Western Michigan University is located in Battle Creek, Michigan, and offers the only comprehensive aviation program at a public university in Michigan. The College offers undergraduate programs in aviation flight science, aviation technical operations, and aviation management and operations. With just over 1,100 undergraduate students it is one of the largest aviation programs in the nation. In fall 2021, the College dedicated its new 22-million-dollar Aviation Education Center to address current and future enrollment needs, putting the University ahead of the pack to meet growing industry demand. Backed by 80 years of aviation experience and an excellent industry reputation, the WMU College of Aviation is a powerful force in the future of aviation training. 

Instruction is provided by 14 tenured, 10 tenure track, and one non-tenure track faculty, with additional instruction provided by six part-time faculty, two chief instructors, 80 temp and student flight instructors, and 38 staff members who provide crucial support to the college.

Applicants should have an appropriate earned degree from a regionally accredited institution, combined with industry experience; demonstrated experience in a field related to aviation; record of excellence in leadership; professional career activities demonstrating the highest ethical standard; demonstrated commitment in the areas of personnel engagement and success;  demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion; record of administrative experiences, including management of budgets and personnel; demonstrated ability to foster interdisciplinary community and industry partnerships and programs to advance organizational goals; demonstrated record of enhancing the domestic image and reputation of an entity; and, excellent analytical, written, presentation and interpersonal communication skills that are adaptable to a diverse range of audiences.

More information on the position can be found at: https://diversifiedsearchgroup.com/search/wmu-dean-college-of-aviation/.

Confidential applications and nominations will be accepted until the position is filled. Candidate screening will begin immediately. For best consideration, please submit application materials by September 15. An application should include a letter describing relevant experiences and interest in the position, a curriculum vitae, and the names of five references with titles, addresses, business telephone numbers and e-mail addresses included. Applications, nominations, and inquiries should be directed to:

Steve Leo, Managing Director

Vicki Henderson, Senior Associate

Storbeck Search

610‐572‐4296

WMUDeanAviation@storbecksearch.com 

For more information on Western Michigan University, please visit http://www.wmich.edu

WMU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Minorities, women, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities and all other qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.