CAREERS TAKE OFF WITH PSEO

Ryan and Derek Berven started their aviation career training by taking advantage of the Postsecondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) partnership between Armstrong-Ringsted High School and Iowa Lakes Community College. PSEO allows high school students to enroll in college credit classes to earn both high school and college credits.

Both enrolled in the Aviation/Airport Management program located at the Estherville Airport while seniors in high school. They enrolled full time after high school graduation.

Brother Derek commented, "I had enough credits to graduate early (from high school) but I wanted to do something important during my senior year and get a head start on my career."

The brothers share the same career goals of obtaining a four-year degree. Derek, while currently enrolled in the Iowa Lakes program, plans to complete his Associate in Science Degree and then continue taking online courses while building flight hours. He plans to become a commercial pilot or join the Air Force. Ryan is looking to become a flight instructor and corporate pilot.

Ryan completed the Associate in Science Degree requirements at Iowa Lakes and transferred to the Flight Operations program at the University of Dubuque. While at Iowa Lakes, he became Private and Commercial pilot licensed. He also became rated in instrument flight, multi-engine operation and as an instructor. He experienced no issues with transferring credits earned at Iowa Lakes.

"It is much easier to get access to the planes and instructors at Iowa Lakes and the money saving is substantial." noted Ryan. "I would encourage anyone looking at an aviation career to get their hours and ratings here."

Both expressed their satisfaction with the quality of the instructors and the airplanes available at Iowa Lakes. "The CIRRUS SR20 with the ‘glass cockpit’ digital electronic instrument panel is state-of-the-art technology."

PSEO is one of several programs that allow high school junior and senior students to enroll in college credit courses before graduation. Information regarding college programs for high school students may be obtained by going online at www.iowalakes.edu and clicking on the ‘College For High School Students’ link or by contacting the Secondary Programs office at 800-242-5108 ext. 5228.

Information about the Aviation/Airport Management program or all programs at Iowa Lakes Community College is available at www.iowalakes.edu or by contacting the nearest college office.