Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus has hired its first executive director of aviation strategy to help position the school as a global leader in the aviation industry.
Lindsey Dreiling, who most recently served as deputy director of aviation and unmanned aircraft systems for the Kansas Department of Transportation, has been hired for the new position at Kansas State Polytechnic and will be responsible for fostering and growing partnerships between the school and the aviation industry, as well as broadening access for underrepresented groups in aviation.
“As the executive director of aviation strategy, Lindsey also will be spearheading our Global Aeronautics Initiative,” said Alysia Starkey, CEO and dean of Kansas State Polytechnic. “This initiative has been developed because of Kansas State Polytechnic’s unique ability to leverage the convergence of rapid technological advancements in manned and unmanned aeronautics, demand for advanced systems and processes from those systems, and educational opportunities due to the increasing demand for qualified and certified technical experts.”
Starkey said since Kansas State Polytechnic is already an important asset to the industry as a respected pacesetter in aviation education, Dreiling’s experience puts her in an excellent position to spearhead the new initiative.
An experienced commercial fixed-wing pilot, certified flight instructor-instrument and a multiengine flight instructor, Dreiling also has experience with drone operations, holding a small unmanned aircraft systems pilot certificate.
In previous positions with KDOT, Dreiling served as chief of unmanned aircraft systems, helping lead the first statewide unmanned air traffic safety program and taking part in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s UAS Integration Pilot Program. She also served as KDOT’s manager for marketing outreach.
Dreiling is an alumna of Kansas State Polytechnic, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in professional pilot and technology management in 2007. She also earned a master’s degree in student development from K-State. She has served Kansas State Polytechnic as an advising coordinator, aviation admissions representative and certified flight instructor.
“Aviation is in my soul and I am excited to serve the industry by fostering the next generation of aviators in a community known for its excellence in aviation,” Dreiling said.
