Dean, College of Aeronautics

Florida Institute of TechnologyDean, College of AeronauticsFlorida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech), a private research university located on Florida’s Space Coast, invites applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the College of Aeronautics (COA). Founded to educate the pioneers of the U.S. space program, Florida Tech is deeply rooted in a culture of technological excellence, hands-on learning, and industry engagement. Today, the university continues this legacy through rigorous degree programs in engineering, science, computing, aeronautics, business, psychology, and related disciplines.Florida Tech seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial, and collaborative Dean to lead the success, growth, and future of the College of Aeronautics. Reporting directly to the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Dean will provide strategic leadership across academic programs, the Florida Tech Flight School, flight operations, research, faculty development, student success initiatives, fundraising, and industry partnerships.The successful candidate will serve as the chief academic and administrative officer of the College, leading a multidisciplinary faculty and professional staff while fostering innovation, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening aviation and aerospace partnerships, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, accreditation, and regulatory compliance across both academic and flight operations.College of AeronauticsThe College of Aeronautics at Florida Institute of Technology is recognized as one of the nation’s leading university-based aviation programs and is committed to educating the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals. The College offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas including aeronautical science, aviation management, aviation human factors and safety, aviation meteorology, air traffic control, aviation safety, and aviation sciences. The College also offers flight training opportunities through the Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Training and Research and maintains multiple programs accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI). The College of Aeronautics is distinguished by its hands-on, industry-focused approach to education, providing students with access to state-of-the-art simulation technologies, advanced laboratories, and modern aircraft fleets. Faculty members are experienced scholars and aviation professionals who engage students in research, experiential learning, and professional development opportunities that prepare graduates for leadership roles across the global aviation industry. Located on Florida’s Space Coast near major aerospace, government, and aviation organizations, the College provides students and faculty with extensive opportunities for collaboration, internships, and applied research.The successful candidate must possess:An earned doctorate or equivalent terminal degree from an accredited institution in aeronautics, aviation, aerospace, engineering, human factors, management, or a closely related discipline.Scholarly, professional, practice-based, and service achievements meriting appointment at the rank of Professor within the College of Aeronautics.A distinguished record of academic, professional, and administrative accomplishment.Demonstrated experience in academic leadership, including program-level, departmental, collegiate, or university-level strategic planning and decision-making.In addition, the successful candidate will have the following preferred qualifications:Progressive academic leadership experience, with prior service as a dean, associate dean, department chair, director of flight operations, or comparable leadership role strongly preferred.Strong communication, interpersonal, and consensus-building skills.Proven success in fundraising, external partnership development, and alumni engagement.Experience collaborating with industry, government agencies, military partners, and international aviation organizations.Demonstrated experience and knowledge in aviation accreditation, safety, and regulatory environments, including FAA-related programs, compliance frameworks, flight education, as well as flight operations and flightline management.Record of managing faculty and successful in faculty recruitment, retention, and mentoring.Experience with emerging technologies, future air mobility, unmanned systems, spaceflight interfaces, and innovation ecosystems.Professional aviation credentials, flight experience, flight line management and maintenance or related certifications. Academic LeadershipProvide strategic vision and leadership for the College of Aeronautics.Oversee curriculum development, assessment, and continuous improvement across undergraduate and graduate programs.Ensure academic quality, innovation, and alignment with workforce and industry needs.Foster interdisciplinary collaboration within the college and across Florida Tech.Ensure programs maintain appropriate academic accreditations and certifications.Provide direct supervisory oversight of the Florida Tech Flight School, including its leadership, organizational structure, and alignment with the academic mission of the College of Aeronautics. Faculty and Staff ManagementLead recruitment, retention, evaluation, and professional development of faculty and staff.Conduct annual performance reviews and support faculty promotion and tenure processes.Facilitate mentoring and leadership development for junior and mid-career faculty.Promote collegial, inclusive, and high-performing academic culture.Research, Innovation, and Professional PracticeChampion applied research, scholarship, and professional practice aligned with aviation and aerospace priorities.Support faculty in securing external funding and developing industry-supported initiatives.Promote undergraduate and graduate student engagement in applied research, safety, and operational projects.For full position description, please visit: https://www.parkersearch.com/opportunities/dean-college-of-aeronauticsApplication ProcessThe Search Advisory Committee will begin reviewing applications immediately and will continue until the position isfilled. For best consideration, please submit application materials by Wednesday, August 19, 2026. All applications and nominations will be handled in confidence.Applications should include: a comprehensive letter of interest addressing qualifications and vision for the College,curriculum vitae, names and contact information for five professional references.Please direct all inquiries, nominations, and applications to:Jacob Anderson, Senior Principal or Scott Gaffney, Associate Parker Executive Search, Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2875, Atlanta, GA 30328(770) 804-1996 ext. 111janderson@parkersearch.com || sgaffney@parkersearch.comPosted to UAA on 5/22/26