SCC to Host Madisonville Community College’s Fixed Wing Pilot Training Beginning Feb. 9
Published on Dec 19, 2025
Somerset Community College (SCC) is partnering with Madisonville Community College
(MCC) to bring MCC’s Fixed Wing Flight Training program to SCC’s Somerset South Campus
beginning Feb. 9.
Through this partnership, students in south-central Kentucky will be able to start Madisonville’s professional pilot fixed-wing (airplane) pathway without relocating. The program remains an MCC offering, with instruction delivered on SCC’s Somerset South Campus and flight training coordinated through Madisonville’s established aviation program.
“This is an exciting new opportunity for students in our region who have dreamed of becoming pilots,” said Dr. Castle, President & CEO of Somerset Community College. “By partnering with Madisonville Community College, we’re able to bring a high-quality, industry-driven fixed-wing training option closer to home. It’s a powerful example of how colleges within KCTCS can work together to expand access to in-demand careers.”
MCC’s aviation program was the first flight training program established within the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). Students in the fixed-wing track progress through ground school and flight labs leading to key Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications and ratings.
Graduates of the Fixed Wing Flight Training Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program will have completed all ground and flight training required to be eligible for the appropriate FAA pilot certifications and ratings.
The first 12-week fixed-wing ground school course at SCC Somerset South Campus is scheduled to begin Feb. 9. This introductory course will cover essential topics such as aviation weather, aircraft systems, navigation, regulations, and safety, providing the academic foundation students need before advancing to flight labs.
National demand for professional pilots remains strong. Industry forecasts from organizations such as Boeing and employment projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that openings for airline and commercial pilots are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, with competitive median wages.
“Somerset Community College has a strong history of supporting aviation careers, and this new partnership builds on that foundation,” said Chris Hall, dean of career and technical programs at SCC. “Whether students want to stay close to home or eventually fly around the world, this program is a runway to a great future.”
How to Get Started
Students interested in the fixed-wing pilot pathway at Somerset South Campus will apply through Madisonville Community College’s application process.
- Learn more about the Madisonville Community College Aviation Program at the MCC aviation webpage.
- Local students with questions about getting started at SCC Somerset South Campus can contact Carla Rose, C.A.R.E. Advising Director, at carla.rose@kctcs.edu or (606) 878-4779.
