Introduction
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology is a specialized college located in Queens, New York City. The college has been a leading institution in aeronautics and aviation technology education since its establishment in 1932. With over 80 years of experience in the field, Vaughn College has a reputation for producing skilled and knowledgeable professionals in the aviation and engineering industries. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, including its history, notable alumni, and unique features.
Fun facts about Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology
History of Vaughn College
Vaughn College was founded in 1932 by William K. Vaughan, a prominent aeronautical engineer and inventor. Originally named the Casey Jones School of Aeronautics, the college was established to provide technical education and training for aviation mechanics and pilots. In the early years, the college had a small student body and offered only a few programs, but it quickly grew in size and reputation.
In 1940, the college was renamed the Academy of Aeronautics and moved to a new location in Flushing, Queens. During World War II, the college played a crucial role in training military pilots and mechanics for the United States Army Air Forces. After the war, the college expanded its programs to include engineering and management courses, and in 1978 it was granted the authority to award bachelor’s degrees.
Notable Alumni
Over the years, Vaughn College has produced many successful alumni who have made significant contributions to the aviation and engineering industries. One notable alumnus is Robert A. “Bob” Hoover, a renowned air show pilot and aviation pioneer. Hoover attended the Academy of Aeronautics in the early 1940s and went on to become a test pilot for North American Aviation, where he helped develop the P-51 Mustang fighter plane.
Another notable alumnus is John Kois, a former NASA engineer who played a key role in the design of the International Space Station. Kois earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from Vaughn College in 1980 and went on to work for NASA for over 30 years, earning numerous awards for his contributions to space exploration.
Unique Features
Vaughn College is unique in many ways, including its location, facilities, and programs. One of the college’s most distinctive features is its proximity to LaGuardia Airport, which is just a few miles away. This allows students to observe planes taking off and landing from the campus and provides them with opportunities to network with industry professionals.
The college also has state-of-the-art facilities, including a flight simulator lab, wind tunnel, and avionics lab, which allow students to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. In addition, the college offers a variety of specialized programs, such as aviation maintenance, airport management, and unmanned aircraft systems, which prepare students for careers in high-demand fields.
Conclusion
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology has a rich history and a strong reputation for providing high-quality education in aeronautics and aviation technology. Its notable alumni and unique features make it a standout institution in the field, and its commitment to hands-on learning and practical experience ensure that its graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the industry.
