Alex Pannell, graduate of Ozarka College's aviation program, is officially a pilot! On June 28, 2017, Alex completed his check ride while traveling to Walnut Ridge and around the Horseshoe Bend area. At the conclusion of this flight, he completed his practical examination and earned his Private Pilot Certificate. He was required to complete a knowledge test as well as a practical examination consisting of an extensive oral exam and demonstration flight with an FAA approved Designated Pilot Examiner.

Alex commented that he was pretty nervous, but equally excited about the certification process, though he felt very prepared going into it. Upon completion of Ozarka's FAA approved Part 141 flight school, students have the opportunity to transfer to Henderson State University (HSU) in Arkadelphia, Arkansas or University of Central Missouri (UCM) in Warrensburg, Missouri. Alex graduated from Ozarka College with an associate of science degree in aviation - professional pilot and has been accepted to UCM, where he will transfer this coming fall semester.

Alex said, "I'm looking forward to earning my Bachelors degree with commercial and CFI rating, and to building hours so I can start my career. " Alex is also interested in becoming a flight instructor.

For more information about flight training at Ozarka College or the aviation program, please call John Catlett, Ozarka College director of aviation, at 870.368.7926 or email: john.catlett@ozarka.edu. Discovery flights may also be scheduled with the Ozarka College aviation program.