Texas State University announces a new partnership with Guidance Helicopters in Prescott, Arizona, bringing rotor-wing flight training for the first time to students enrolled in TXST’s Accelerated Online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science (B.A.A.S.) in Aviation Science. Beginning Fall 2026, students can pursue their degree fully online through TXST while completing professional helicopter flight training at Guidance Helicopters’ facility at Prescott Regional Airport, a program with more than 20 years of experience.
The addition of rotor-wing training reflects the growing demand for helicopter pilots across critical industries. With a global shortage of more than 60,000 helicopter pilots projected by the mid-2030s, according to Vertical Aviation International, the partnership positions TXST Aviation to expand access to rotor-wing careers and help meet one of aviation's most urgent workforce needs.
“Guidance Helicopters has spent more than two decades producing professional pilots across some of the most demanding sectors in aviation, from power line construction to emergency medical services to aerial firefighting,” said John Stonecipher, founder of Guidance Helicopters, Inc. “Our partnership with Texas State University brings that experience into a structured collegiate pathway, giving students an integrated academic and flight training experience designed to take them from classroom to a lasting career in aviation.”
The program is offered through the Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies. Students complete all academic coursework online through TXST while gaining hands-on rotor-wing flight experience at Guidance Helicopters, equipping graduates for careers across emergency medical services, law enforcement, offshore energy, agriculture, corporate aviation, and utility operations.
"This partnership allows TXST to reach students where they are, making it easier for them to get an aviation degree while helping them earn high-paying jobs as professional pilots,” said TXST President Kelly Damphousse. “At the same time, we are addressing the nation's growing pilot shortage."
Visit the TXST Aviation website for more information.