KESTREL AVIATION TRAINING ACADEMY
Kestrel Aviation Training Academy
Established April 5, 2026
Founder's Message
Today marks the founding of Kestrel Aviation Training Academy. ​What was formed and dedicated on December 25, 2025, is now being set into motion.​ KATA is being built to provide disciplined, real-world aviation training; beginning with UAS and expanding into broader aviation education and operations.​ We are currently completing the necessary steps to ensure our training meets the proper standards and approvals.​ Applications will open once that process is complete.
Kestrel Aviation Training Academy was established on April 5, 2026. This academy exists to prepare individuals not just for certification, but for real-world aviation responsibility, operational understanding, and professional discipline. While initial offerings will begin with UAS training, KATA is being built to support broader aviation education, workforce development, and operational readiness. Enrollment will open once final approval steps are complete.
TRAIN FOR THE FUTURE OF AVIATION OPERATIONS
Instructor-led training designed to develop disciplined remote pilots and aviation ground professionals for a rapidly evolving aviation industry.
Founded and led by a U.S. Navy aviation professional and aviation educator.
Instructor-led training • Small cohort sizes • Workforce-focused curriculum
Building the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals
Kestrel Aviation Training Academy provides structured, instructor-led aviation systems education designed to develop reliable remote pilots and aviation ground professionals.
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Unlike self-paced online courses, our training emphasizes aviation discipline, operational awareness, and workforce readiness.
PILOT COHORT - UAS OPERATIONS & AVIATION SYSTEMS COURSE - COMING SOON
Modern aviation includes both traditional aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems.
Kestrel Aviation Training Academy prepares students to operate within this evolving aviation ecosystem.
Why This Training Matters
The aviation industry is undergoing a significant transformation as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) become integrated into commercial operations across infrastructure inspection, agriculture, mapping, logistics, and public safety.
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While many individuals pursue FAA Part 107 certification through self-paced online courses, safe and reliable drone operations require a deeper understanding of aviation systems, airspace responsibility, and operational discipline.
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Kestrel Aviation Training Academy was created to prepare remote pilots who understand both drone technology and the broader aviation environment in which these systems operate.
Industry Trends:
• Unmanned aircraft systems now represent the majority of registered aircraft in the United States.
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• The drone industry continues to expand across multiple sectors including infrastructure inspection, agriculture, public safety, and logistics.
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• Aviation employers increasingly seek operators who understand both unmanned aircraft systems and the broader aviation environment.
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• Workforce shortages across aviation maintenance, operations, and technical roles are creating new opportunities for individuals entering the aviation industry.
TRAINING PATHWAYS
KATA programs are designed to introduce students to both unmanned aircraft systems and the broader aviation ground operations environment.
Our Mission
Kestrel Aviation Training Academy provides structured aviation systems training designed to prepare disciplined professionals for careers in unmanned aircraft operations and aviation ground environments.
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The academy begins with the UAS Operations & Aviation Systems program and will expand into broader aviation pathways including airport operations, safety compliance, and aviation maintenance orientation.
Our Foundation
Kestrel Aviation Training Academy was founded on principles of discipline, integrity, and servant leadership rooted in the Christian faith. The academy’s leadership believes that strong character and ethical responsibility are essential in aviation, where safety, trust, and accountability are critical.
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While our programs are open to individuals of all backgrounds, the values guiding this academy are shaped by a commitment to honoring God through excellence, humility, and service.
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These values shape the leadership and training philosophy of the academy.
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“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart.” Colossians 3:23