John Fick - Instructor

Grade level 11-12. May be taken 2 times with a grade of “C” or better to advance. AM and PM sessions offered

This 2-semester program is taught at a satellite location, utilizing the University of Alaska Aviation Complex at Merrill Field. Different subject matter is covered each semester.

Why take this course?

• Aviation is a high demand industry in Alaska
• Enjoy and exciting and fast-paced career field
• Options in this area are limitless

Students will focus on knowledge areas required by the FAA Private Pilot Written Exam. First semesters will include aerodynamics, aircraft systems, flight instruments, performance, weight and balance, and the FARs. Students will demonstrate acquired flight skills in a state of the art flight simulator.

Second semester will learn the importance of good communication and teamwork required by Air Traffic Control. They will learn airspace, weather, and equipment requirements, and experience an advanced air traffic control tower simulator. Students will learn about lighting, signage and markings required for various types of airports, and will be introduced to the demands of funding, design and construction. Basic navigation, weather and weather reports, aeronautical decision making and physiology will also be covered. There is some overlap of information between semesters.

Students will develop a scholarship folder, prepare a resumé, learn job skills and visit a variety of aviation related job sites. Second semester students may be eligible to participate in job-shadowing. Community service will be strongly encouraged.

King Tech High School Advanced Aviation Academy Information 

 The Academy was established last year to provide King Tech (formerly KCC) aviation technology students the means to attain a private pilot’s license. This summer, ASD has paid for the private pilot flight training for four students using UAA’s aviation technology flight school program. We hope to select six students from this year’s aviation tech class to fly next summer. The long range goal is to prepare students for the workforce by becoming commercial pilots, living and working in Alaska. 

 Here are the required steps for a student to be considered for this year’s academy:

1. Enrolled in King Tech High School’s aviation technology class for the entire 21/22 school year. (You can be a full-time or part-time student at King Tech. Part-time--contact your high school counselor to enroll. Full-time King Tech—contact King Tech counseling.)
2. Receive an “A” or a “B” in aviation technology
3. Pass the FAA private pilot written test by the end of the school year. (Aviation technology is basically a private pilot ground school, so we work throughout the year getting ready to take this difficult test.)
4. Obtain a first-class flight physical by the end of the school year. (I will explain this procedure in class.)
5. This is a competitive process: students will submit resumes, and go through an interview process with the academy interview committee.
6. If you have further questions, you can contact the King Tech aviation tech instructor, John Fick, directly. Cell phone (907) 717-6263, or email fick_john@asdk12.org    

Credits and Certifications

.5 Physical Science

1.0 Elective

Private Pilot’s Ground School

Private Pilot’s Knowledge Exam

College credit available

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