New Director of Aviation Brings International Experience and Recognition

Rick Charles, associate professor and new director of aviation for the Utah State University flight program, was elected international director of the Airline Avionics Institute in August.

 

"I'm thrilled to be at USU, and feel my 30 years experience and my newly elected position will give Utah State aviation a presence among domestic and international airlines like few universities have," said Charles.

 

Charles' three decades of experience include positions with Continental Airlines, the Collins Air Transport Division and Aeronautical Radio Inc., an airline industry-owned communication and standards organization. Charles is the recipient of research grants from the national Transportation Research Board and a number of other aviation industry organizations. His research focuses on aviation public policy, security, air traffic control and airport privatization.

 

"Charles will be responsible for upgrading our aviation program to meet the needs of the post 9/11 aviation industry," said Scott Hinton, dean of the college of engineering. "He is a remarkable individual with the personal energy and experience required to move this program to the next level."

 

Charles' goals for the department include focusing on research, upgrading the aerodynamics lab with modern aircraft, increasing fundraising efforts and gaining national and international acknowledgment for the flight program.

 

"As the newly elected international director, Charles will help bring that international recognition USU's aviation program deserves," said Hinton. "We are very excited for him and for the opportunities his new position will bring to Utah State."

 

As international director Charles' foremost responsibilities are to maintain and promote the participation of global airlines and manufacturing firms in the activities of the Airline Electronic Engineering Committee. He will also be a member of the Flight Simulation Engineering and Maintenance Committee, which develops standards for the design and support of flight simulators. Charles will be introduced to the Airline Electronic Engineering Committee body as director on Oct. 3 in Seattle, Wash.

 

"My relationship with the international aviation community will enhance our position as a university for research funding and other related activities," said Charles. "This funding will help put the USU aviation program on the national and world map."