Hillsboro Aero Academy

Compensation

Full Description

Position Summary The Ground School Program Manager provides strategic leadership, oversight, and continuous improvement of the ground school training program across the HIO and RDM campuses. This role is responsible for program governance, curriculum standardization, instructor performance oversight, student outcome analysis, regulatory compliance, and technology integration. The Program Manager ensures ground training is delivered consistently, efficiently, and in full alignment with organizational standards and FAA Part 141 requirements at both campus locations. This position focuses on program strategy, quality assurance, innovation, and performance management rather than day-to-day classroom operations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Program Leadership & Oversight * Oversee the structure and administration of the monthly ground school enrollment process at HIO and RDM. * Establish program standards, timelines, and operational expectations for ground school delivery across both campuses. * Monitor execution of classroom operations to ensure alignment with program standards. * Provide high-level oversight of New Student Orientation (NSO) ground training components at each campus. * Partner with Training Leadership to ensure alignment between both locations and broader organizational objectives. * Manage Ground Instructor staffing levels and hiring. * Lead communication and engagement efforts as needed via Student and Pilot meetings. Curriculum Management & Standardization * Review, update, and maintain all ground school curriculum materials to ensure accuracy, consistency, and instructional effectiveness. * Ensure quizzes, assessments, and written exam preparation materials align with course objectives and FAA standards. * Maintain standardization of curriculum delivery between HIO and RDM. * Lead curriculum improvement initiatives based on student performance data, instructor feedback, and regulatory updates. * Develop and oversee advanced training initiatives, including masterclass content strategy and knowledge enhancement programs. Technology Integration & Resource Implementation * Identify, evaluate, and implement instructional tools, digital platforms, and training resources to enhance learning effectiveness and operational efficiency at both campuses. * Leverage digital technology to streamline enrollment tracking, student progress monitoring, and performance reporting. * Oversee integration and optimization of Learning Management Systems (LMS), exam tracking tools, and digital training materials. * Utilize data analytics and reporting systems to drive program improvements and increase first-time written exam pass rates. * Ensure ground school materials incorporate modern instructional technology, multimedia learning tools, and interactive content where appropriate. * Partner with IT and Training Leadership to evaluate emerging technologies that improve instructional delivery and student engagement.  Instructor Performance & Development Oversight * Establish instructor performance standards and instructional quality benchmarks across both campuses. * Oversee instructor standardization efforts between HIO and RDM. * Review instructor performance data and classroom observation reports to ensure instructional excellence. * Partner with Training Leadership to support professional development initiatives for ground instructors. * Provide strategic guidance on instructor training, evaluation, and continuous improvement processes. * Conduct meetings with Ground Instructors, including O3s and monthly group meetings. Student Performance & Compliance Management * Monitor written exam completion rates and overall student progress trends at both campuses. * Evaluate program-level student performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. * Ensure proper course completion documentation and regulatory compliance. * Analyze performance data to drive continuous improvement in student outcomes and first-time written exam pass rates. * Develop campus-wide action plans to address performance gaps and enhance training effectiveness. Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance * Ensure all ground school training at HIO and RDM remains compliant with FAA Part 141 requirements and internal policies. * Maintain documentation standards and audit readiness for regulatory inspections. * Collaborate with the 141 Chief and Training Leadership on compliance initiatives and program reviews. Qualifications * Strong knowledge of FAA Part 141 training requirements * Proven experience in curriculum development and program standardization * Experience implementing instructional technology or learning management systems * Demonstrated leadership experience in aviation training or academic program management * Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills * Excellent organizational and communication skills * Ability to lead and align operations across multiple campuses Benefits Offered: * Affordable health care benefits * Company 401(k) with match  * PTO (20 days in first 2 years, 25 days after 2 years, 30 days after 5 years) * 2-week Sabbatical after 5 years * Discounted flight training * Employee recognition program Hillsboro Aero Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer