TCU will bring together leaders from some of North Texas’ biggest names in aviation Oct. 27 for Aviation’s Next Horizon, a celebration of TCU’s new professional aviation degree program housed in the College of Education.
The event will highlight the university’s growing investment in aviation education and its connections to an industry that plays a major role in the North Texas economy.
The program will feature a panel exploring the future of the aviation workforce with Jose Freig, vice president of international and inflight dining operations at American Airlines; Chris McLaughlin, CEO of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport; and Grant Morris, vice president of flight operations and chief pilot at Southwest Airlines. Robert Allen, CEO of the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership, will moderate the discussion.
A reception and flyover are scheduled to cap off the event.
The celebration follows TCU’s announcement earlier this year of a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aviation, with concentrations in Aviation Administration and Professional Pilot, as well as a new Aviation Studies minor. Developed with input from industry leaders, the program combines TCU’s academic strengths with the opportunities afforded by its location in one of the nation’s most significant aviation hubs.
“The aviation industry needs a skilled, well-prepared workforce, and the College of Education at TCU is ready to lead the way,” said Frank Hernandez, dean of the College of Education. “North Texas is one of the nation's great aviation hubs, and we are honored to welcome these industry leaders to the TCU campus as we launch this program together.”
The new program expands the college’s work preparing professionals to lead, teach and serve in evolving industries and communities. The Aviation Administration concentration prepares students for leadership and management roles with airlines, airports and other aviation organizations, while the Professional Pilot concentration, planned for fall 2027, will provide a structured pathway for flight training and FAA certification.
The event offers the TCU community an opportunity to celebrate the new program while hearing directly from aviation leaders about the opportunities, challenges and workforce needs shaping the future of the industry.
For event details and to RSVP, view the invitation.