Category: Latest News

California Aeronautical University Launches First Reach Flight Center in Partnership with Air Fleet Training Systems

October 2, 2025October 1, 2025 Tiffany Moore

Fairfield, NJ – California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce the launch of its first Reach Flight Center in partnership with Air Fleet Training Systems, expanding access to university-level aviation education for aspiring pilots in the Northeast. Through the Reach Flight Center initiative, CAU partners with established flight schools across the country to deliver a unique …

Behind the Blimp: How a CAU Graduate Became a Goodyear Pilot

July 25, 2025July 20, 2025 Monica Raymond

As aviation enthusiasts from around the world gather in Oshkosh for EAA AirVenture, one of the most iconic aircraft in attendance isn’t just turning heads in the sky — it’s also featured on the event poster. The Goodyear Blimp, a beloved airshow staple and rare sight in the skies, will be making a special appearance …

California Aeronautical University Celebrates Class of 2025

July 25, 2025July 2, 2025 Monica Raymond

California Aeronautical University (CAU) honored its 2025 graduating class during a commencement ceremony held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the University’s campus in Bakersfield, California. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of graduates entering the aviation industry, many of whom have already secured opportunities with prominent organizations such as Endeavor Air, Robinson Helicopters, SkyWest Airlines, …

CAU Flight Team Earns National Recognition at Prestigious Flight Competition

June 3, 2025June 1, 2025 Monica Raymond

Demonstrating their skill, professionalism, and sportsmanship on a national stage, the California Aeronautical University (CAU) Flight Team recently competed at the 2025 National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON flight competition, earning national honors among the country’s top collegiate aviation programs. Competing May 12-17, 2025 in Oshkosh Wisconsin, the CAU Flight Team proudly placed 14th overall, …

From Dream to Delta: Miguel Diaz’s Journey from CAU to the Majors

May 2, 2025April 30, 2025 Monica Raymond

From Dream to Delta: Miguel Diaz’s Journey from CAU to the Majors For Miguel Diaz, the dream of becoming a pilot wasn’t just his—it was his father’s too. Growing up in Ontario, California, Diaz always liked airplanes. His father had wanted to be a pilot but never had the opportunity. That dream, passed down, became …

In Our Own Words by Courtney Papion

April 9, 2025April 8, 2025 Courtney Papion

Growing up in Bakersfield, California, I always had a strong support system. My family taught me to work hard and never back down from the challenges of life, and those lessons have stayed with me throughout my journey. Whether I was playing sports, tackling AP courses, or chasing new experiences, my family, especially my grandfather, …

California Aeronautical University Instructor Named “Educator of the Year” by Aviation Technician Education Council

March 31, 2025March 14, 2025 Monica Raymond

California Aeronautical University (CAU) proudly announces that Omar Aguilera, instructor in the University’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program, has been named “Educator of the Year” by the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC). This prestigious award recognizes Aguilera’s outstanding contributions to aviation maintenance education and his commitment to shaping the next generation of aircraft mechanics. A 25-year …

Taking Flight: Brycen’s Journey from Honolulu to Horizon Air

March 31, 2025March 5, 2025 Monica Raymond

For many aspiring pilots, the dream of flying for an airline can feel distant. But for Brycen Yamaguchi, a graduate of California Aeronautical University (CAU), that dream became a reality. His journey from flight training in Honolulu to being hired as a commercial pilot at Horizon Air is a testament to his dedication and perseverance, …

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

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 …

California Aeronautical University Partners with Endeavor Air, regional airline for Delta Air Lines

February 18, 2025February 6, 2025 Monica Raymond

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce its new partnership with Endeavor Air, which will provide CAU students and instructors with a step-by-step pathway to become a pilot at Endeavor Air, a pathway to Delta Air Lines. Through the partnership, CAU will become a university partner of Endeavor’s Student to Pilot (STEP) Program and …

CAU Recognized Among Top Online Colleges of 2025

January 9, 2025January 8, 2025 Monica Raymond

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 …

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

December 17, 2024September 5, 2024 Monica Raymond

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 …

In Our Own Words: Taking Dreams to Reality

March 31, 2025July 16, 2024 Mannat Toor

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

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

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

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 …

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

April 17, 2024March 18, 2024 Monica Raymond

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

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 …