Hank Wilson

Henderson State University is the only university in Arkansas that offers a four-year degree in aviation. We currently offer three degree tracks for our 120+ aviation majors: professional pilot, aviation management and aircraft maintenance management. The bulk of our students come to Henderson because they want to learn how to fly.  Most secure jobs with the airlines, some fly for corporate businesses or the military and a few will go on to become missionary pilots.  It's very diverse, but the bulk of our graduates are able to fly for a living.

Our school operates a $3.5 million state-of-the-art facility and owns 15 single-engine aircrafts and one twin-engine plane. Our aviation program helps to operate the Arkadelphia Municipal Airport.  We also coordinate internships at Little Rock National Airport and with large companies such as Tyson.  We are always on the lookout for hands-on learning opportunities for our students.

Henderson began training pilots in 1937.  We went on to train aviation cadets for World War II and led an aviation program for Henderson's ROTC in the 50's and 70's. Our first degree-producing program was introduced in 1972 with our first graduate in 1976. 

No matter which school you attend, you're going to get a good education in Clark County.  We know our students on a first-name basis.  As educators, we try really hard to get to know our students and give them the very best training they can get.  Our students are here to study, build relationships and connect with their future; this is a great hub for education. 

There are also advantages of raising you family in a small town - you know that your children aren't going to get into any trouble here. That's a benefit.  I like Arkadelphia.  It's small, but still close to Little Rock, Dallas and other urban areas.  It's a small country life and I like it.