US Aviation Academy has announced the launch of two new Florida-based aviation training facilities: a pilot training center in Fort Pierce and an FAA Part 147-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) at Kissimmee Gateway Airport (KISM). The dual opening represents the largest expansion initiative in the institution's history and strengthens Florida's role in the Academy's growing national training network.

The new Fort Pierce flight training center occupies facilities formerly used by Aviator College, which are now leased by US Aviation Academy. While utilizing the existing infrastructure, the campus operates as a completely independent entity under the Academy's leadership, educational standards, and operational framework from day one.

According to CEO Mike Sykes, the simultaneous launch of both facilities reflects the Academy's broader vision of developing a comprehensive aviation education ecosystem. He noted that the organization is expanding beyond pilot instruction to create an integrated platform that supports career development for both pilots and aviation maintenance professionals through industry partnerships, regulatory approvals, and specialized training programs.

Fort Pierce Flight Training Center
The Fort Pierce campus is among Florida's larger aviation training facilities and offers substantial room for future growth, including fleet expansion, simulator installations, classroom development, administrative operations, and student accommodations. The Academy expects the location to support increasing enrollment and infrastructure enhancements for years ahead.

Its strategic location provides students access to diverse flight environments throughout Florida, including busy airspace near Orlando, Palm Beach, Lakeland, and Tampa. Exposure to varying weather conditions, air traffic patterns, and controlled airspace environments allows students to gain practical experience relevant to airline operations worldwide.

Training at the facility will initially be conducted under FAA Part 61 regulations, enabling immediate enrollment and instruction. The Academy is actively pursuing FAA Part 141 certification, which is expected to be secured in the near future. Once approved, Part 141 status will provide access to more structured training programs and broaden opportunities for certain international student visa applicants.

The Fort Pierce operation is also part of US Aviation Academy's EASA-approved Approved Training Organization (ATO), allowing the institution to attract and train students from Europe and other international markets under globally recognized standards. The Academy believes its balanced enrollment strategy aligns graduate output with airline hiring needs, creating stronger employment opportunities for eligible students seeking careers in aviation.

Kissimmee Aviation Maintenance Technician School
At the same time, US Aviation Academy is launching an FAA Part 147-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, located near Orlando. The program is designed to prepare students for FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification, a credential that remains in high demand as airlines and maintenance organizations face a growing shortage of qualified technicians.

Situated within Central Florida's aviation hub, the Kissimmee campus offers convenient access to airlines, maintenance providers, and aerospace employers operating throughout the Orlando region. The area's favorable weather conditions and active aviation sector make it an ideal environment for hands-on technical training.

Together, the Fort Pierce and Kissimmee facilities allow US Aviation Academy to deliver both pilot and maintenance technician education under one organization, maintaining consistent training standards while supporting workforce development across multiple aviation disciplines.

Chief Development Officer Scott Sykes emphasized the increasing demand for certified maintenance professionals, highlighting the importance of the Kissimmee program in preparing future technicians responsible for maintaining commercial aircraft safety and reliability.

Expanding a National Aviation Training Network
Over the years, US Aviation Academy has steadily expanded its presence across the United States, establishing training locations in Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Georgia, and New York. This broad geographic footprint reflects growing demand for professional aviation education and the Academy's commitment to increasing access to training opportunities nationwide.

The addition of the Fort Pierce flight center and Kissimmee maintenance school marks a significant milestone in that expansion strategy. Beyond extending its geographic reach, the Academy has enhanced its capabilities through new certifications, training pathways, and maintenance education offerings.

With facilities now operating across multiple regions of the country, US Aviation Academy is building a nationwide infrastructure capable of training both pilots and maintenance technicians while supplying airline and industry partners with a dependable pipeline of qualified graduates.

The organization continues to evaluate additional expansion opportunities as it pursues its long-term goal of becoming a leading provider of professional aviation education in the United States. Prospective students interested in either program are encouraged to contact the Academy's admissions department for information regarding enrollment, program costs, training schedules, and career placement opportunities.

Tim Brown developed a passion for aviation during his teenage years. Growing up near Charlotte, he began working on the ground crew, cleaning corporate jets. Over time, he learned to fly and now serves as a 737 pilot for American Airlines.

To inspire young people to consider careers in aviation, Brown serves as the director of the Aerospace Career Education (ACE) Academy in Charlotte, operated by the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals. The academy offers affordable camps, courses, and field trips, which are highly popular and often sell out.

On December 11, Brown will speak at 3BL Network Effect: Charlotte at the Truist Center, where he’ll share his journey and discuss how the ACE Academy has become a talent pipeline for local companies. The academy prepares students for roles such as air traffic controllers, jet mechanics, Air Force personnel, and commercial pilots.

The event will also explore key trends in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting and the business case for corporate initiatives that promote diversity, STEM education, and disaster relief efforts. This half-day program, the eighth in 3BL’s regional series, is designed for professionals in corporate social responsibility, sustainability, social impact, communications, marketing, ESG, and investor relations. Breakfast will be included.

Click here to register.

The 3BL Network Effect: Charlotte event will feature organizations such as Aerospace Career Education Academy, Albemarle, Compass Group, Duke Energy, Ideas on Purpose, Mower, Trane Technologies, Trips for Kids Charlotte, and Truist.

Beyond panel discussions, fireside chats, and research on consumer attitudes toward sustainability, the event aims to provide opportunities for professionals from Carolina-based companies, nonprofits, and NGOs to collaborate and amplify their impact.