Texas State University has partnered with Genesis Aero pilot flight training to expand its Aviation Science degree program to TXST’s Round Rock Campus.
This latest partnership further helps address the growing national demand for airline and commercial pilots. The program—which is offered by TXST’s Department of Organization, Workforce and Leadership Studies (OWLS)—will begin admitting students to the aviation program at Round Rock immediately for classes starting in Spring 2026.
“The OWLS department is excited to support this new partnership and the growth of the Aviation Science program,” said Shetay Ashford-Hanserd, Ph.D. “As the demand for this program continues to increase, building strong partnerships with new flight partners is essential for its success. I am looking forward to the opportunities this will create for our students at the Round Rock Campus and the lasting impact it will have across the Texas Innovation Corridor.”
The Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science with a Major in Aviation Science will provide a pathway to certifications and licensure required for professional pilots along with the critical thinking, teamwork and leadership skills valued by the commercial aviation industry. Genesis Aero will provide flight training at the Georgetown Executive Airport.
“Genesis Aero is honored to partner with Texas State University to support the expansion of its Aviation Science program at the Round Rock Campus,” said Kyle Keeling, owner of Genesis Aero.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to developing the future generations of professional pilots through high-quality flight training. We are excited to provide flight training at Georgetown Executive Airport and to help prepare Texas State University students to become the next generation of professional pilots serving Texas and the nation’s aviation industry."
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that during the decade spanning 2022-2032, the demand for commercial pilots will grow nationally by more than 5,600 positions, an increase of more than 4%. About 16,800 openings for commercial pilots are projected each year, on average, over the decade, with many of those openings resulting from the need to replace pilots reaching mandatory retirement.
Airline and commercial pilots fly and navigate airplanes, helicopters and other aircraft. Airline pilots work primarily for airlines that transport passengers and cargo on a fixed schedule, while commercial pilots are involved in unscheduled flight activities, such as aerial application, charter flights and aerial tours. Professional pilots have a range of job opportunities including:
- Commercial passenger airlines
- Commercial cargo airlines
- Couriers and express delivery services
- Federal government services
- Support activities for transportation
- Nonscheduled air transportation (tours, charters, etc.)
- Ambulance services
- Technical and trade schools (private)
- Professional, scientific and technical services
For more information, visit the OWLS website.