Aviation Resources - California Aeronautical University

California Aeronautical University Joins Kern High School District ROC/CTEC for Take Flight Collaboration

February 26, 2025February 21, 2025 Monica Raymond

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the Kern High School District (KHSD). The University will join KHSD’s Regional Occupational Center (ROC) and Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) in the “Take Flight” collaboration, serving as the professional industry partner to provide students real-world exposure to aviation. As one of …

California Aeronautical University Partners with Lightspeed Aviation to Support Future Aviators

February 24, 2025February 20, 2025 Monica Raymond

Smiling college flight team wearing headsets and holding Lightspeed headset cases under a "SafeCon Region II" banner

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce a new partnership with Lightspeed Aviation aimed at supporting students on their journey to become professional aviators. Through this partnership, CAU students will gain special access to Lightspeed’s premium active noise reduction (ANR) headsets. Winner of Flying Magazine’s “Editor’s Choice Award,” Lightspeed’s headsets are designed with advanced …

How To Become A Pilot: The Step-by-Every-Little-Step Guide

February 6, 2025January 15, 2025 Sarina Larson

Do you want to become a pilot but don’t know where to begin? How do you know if you’ll like it? Will you make a good pilot? Where do you start training? What flight school should you choose? Do you need a medical exam? How do you make a career out of aviation? If you’re …

CAU Recognized Among Top Online Colleges of 2025

January 9, 2025January 8, 2025 Monica Raymond

Tail of a Cessna plane painted with large "CAU" letters in front of a hangar, with "Newsweek America's Top Online Schools 2025" text above.

California Aeronautical University (CAU) has been recognized as one of the best online colleges in the United States. CAU placed 25th out of 250 colleges nationwide on the list of America’s Top Online Colleges of 2025, a survey conducted by Newsweek and global data research firm Statista. The list ranks the top 250 colleges and …

Guide to Becoming an Aircraft Mechanic

September 17, 2025December 18, 2024 Tiffany Moore

Mechanic working on a small aircraft's exposed piston engine and propeller hub inside a hangar.

Aircraft mechanics play a crucial role in the aviation industry, ensuring the safety and functionality of airplanes. This guide will walk you through the journey to becoming an aircraft mechanic, from the early stages of career exploration to professional advancement. With dedication and the right steps, you can build a fulfilling career in this vital …

Soaring to Success: Your Path to Becoming an Airline Pilot

March 31, 2025December 15, 2024 Tiffany Moore

Becoming an Airline Pilot - California Aeronautical University

Dreaming of a career above the clouds? Becoming an airline pilot is one of the most rewarding and exciting paths you can take. Not only do pilots enjoy the thrill of flying, but they also connect people, transport goods, and bring the world closer together. If you’ve ever imagined yourself in the cockpit, commanding a …

How To Get A Student Pilot Certificate: Step-by-Step Guide

January 26, 2026November 15, 2024 Sarina Larson

Applying for a student pilot certificate is an exciting step! It’s the first move toward becoming a pilot but can be a complex one to navigate. This article will cover who needs a student pilot certificate, eligibility requirements, privileges and limitations of a student pilot, and how to successfully complete the student pilot application along …

California Aeronautical University Partners with AOPA to Offer Continuing Education Credits for Educators

December 17, 2024September 5, 2024 Monica Raymond

High school student in glasses works at a desk while a smiling teacher leans over to help in a bright classroom

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is excited to announce a new partnership with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) to enhance aviation education nationwide. Through the collaboration, CAU will provide continuing education credits to K-12 teachers who have completed the AOPA Foundation High School Aviation STEM Curriculum. As the first curriculum of its kind, the …

Navigating the Skies: The Key to Choosing the Right Aviation University

July 25, 2024 Tamu Smith-Kohls

Two smiling student pilots in CAU uniforms giving thumbs up while standing beside a small plane marked "CALIFORNIA AERONAUTICAL UNI" and N71FF

Choosing the right aviation school to kick off your flying journey is crucial, and undoubtedly, a tad bit daunting. Making an informed decision involves conducting extensive research and asking the right questions. However, not putting in the effort to thoughtfully select the right aviation university can lead to wasting both time and money. Time: Attending …

In Our Own Words: Taking Dreams to Reality

March 31, 2025July 16, 2024 Mannat Toor

Smiling woman in a dark pilot or captain uniform with gold sleeve stripes, seated in a hotel lobby reception area.

Aviation has always been my passion, a love affair that began with the simple act of looking up at the sky and dreaming of flight

CAU Honors Class of 2024 in Graduation Ceremony

June 19, 2024June 17, 2024 Monica Raymond

Graduates begin opportunities with SkyWest Airlines, Northrop Grumman, more California Aeronautical University will proudly host a graduation ceremony to honor its distinguished Class of 2024 on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The event, held at the University campus on Meadows Field Airport at 9 am, will commemorate the hard work and dedication of these students as …

California Aeronautical University Hosts U.S. Air Force AIM High Flight Academy for Second Year

May 24, 2024May 24, 2024 Monica Raymond

Group of smiling college students and staff holding California Aeronautical University pennants in front of five flagpoles and campus buildings on a sunny day

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce it will host the U.S. Air Force’s AIM High Flight Academy for the second consecutive year this summer. Organized by the Air Force Recruiting Service Detachment 1, the AIM HIGH Flight Academy (AHFA) is an esteemed aviation scholarship program for a three-week introductory flight academy. In a …

CAU Flies to a Greener Future with Unleaded Aviation Fuel

July 22, 2024April 8, 2024 Monica Raymond

Two smiling men shaking hands beside a small white single‑engine airplane with open cabin door on an airport ramp at dusk.

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is propelling forward with exciting new developments that aim to reshape the landscape of a more environmentally friendly aviation and education. With a commitment to innovation, CAU is spearheading initiatives that not only enhance the learning experience for students but also contribute to the advancement of the aviation industry. One of …

Upcoming Events – April 2024

April 30, 2024April 1, 2024 Marketing Team

Smiling female pilot in a black-and-pink racing flight suit with "CAU California Aeronautical University" patch, holding a helmet beside a purple racing propeller plane labeled "Plum Crazy."

April 2024 Events Join us as for a Q&A session with Vicky Benzing led by Matt Johnston, California Aeronautical University President. This will be held at the California Aeronautical University (CAU) location at Montgomery Gibbs Executive Airport in April 17th at 2pm. Learn about Vicky’s career in aviation including her corporate flying, aerobatics, air racing …

READ MORE Upcoming Events – April 2024

California Aeronautical University Expands Flight Training Fleet with 15 Cessna Skyhawk Aircraft

April 17, 2024March 18, 2024 Monica Raymond

Two white training Cessna aircraft parked on tarmac in front of a large orange hangar labeled CAU California Aeronautical University.

WICHITA, KS (March 18, 2024) — Textron Aviation today announced an agreement with California Aeronautical University for the purchase of 15 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft with deliveries beginning in 2027. The new aircraft will be added to their current fleet and will be used at the various Western United States locations including Bakersfield, CA, San Diego, …

CAU Flight Team Earns Coveted Invite to National Flight Competition, Seeks Community Support to Soar to Victory

April 17, 2024March 14, 2024 Monica Raymond

Group of young people in formal clothes standing in a line in front of a small red airplane on a sunny day

California Aeronautical University’s Flight Team has earned an invitation to participate in a national intercollegiate flight competition, where they’ll compete against the top flight teams representing colleges, universities, and academies from around the country. Hosted by the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA), SAFECON is an annual competition consisting of flight and ground challenges designed to …

Fulfilling the Future of Flight

February 22, 2024 Tamu Smith-Kohls

Six smiling airline pilots and two men in casual jackets standing in front of a trailer booth with aviation banners.

California Aeronautical University hosts sixth annual Aviation Career Day As the aviation industry continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial for educational institutions like California Aeronautical University (CAU) to prepare future pilots and aircraft maintenance technicians for success. With a commitment to providing exceptional education and hands-on experience, CAU has been a leading force …

How to Become a Pilot in Arizona

May 21, 2024November 15, 2023 Matthew Johnston

Many people spend their lives dreaming of becoming a pilot and flying planes all around the world. Others are taking notice of the pilot shortage and want to take advantage of new opportunities for their future. Whatever your reason for wanting to learn how to become a pilot in Arizona, figuring out how to get …

Upcoming Events – November 2023

May 21, 2024November 7, 2023 Tamu Smith-Kohls

Four smiling people and a child wearing neon safety vests standing under an open-air hangar with a small plane behind them

November 2023 Events SkyWest Pilot Recruiting will be visiting the CAU Bakersfield campus on Wednesday, November 8th. The recruitment team will give a presentation to current CAU students about their SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program, followed by a pilot workshop on the topic of high speed/high altitude aerodynamics/performance. This event is open to CAU students only.

United Airlines Pilot Program: What You Need to Know

May 22, 2024November 6, 2023 Matthew Johnston

Some people dream of becoming a pilot to fly high amongst the clouds in order to satisfy their personal sense of accomplishment and have a hobby they truly enjoy. Others dream of becoming a pilot as a career choice, gaining the skills necessary to transport cargo and passengers all around the world. Then, there are …