Practical Aeronautics

From a practical perspective, we teach introductory aeronautics and propulsion short courses to anyone working directly or indirectly in the field of aviation.

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About Us

We provide unrivaled big picture, systems-level workforce development/continuing education short courses in aeronautics, jet engines, and aircraft systems to increase confidence, boost motivation, and improve communication.

What We Do

aircraft landing gearWe teach professional workforce development short courses by presenting the fundamental laws and basic principles that govern atmospheric flight, aircraft systems, and jet propulsion in practical, interesting, exciting, and fun ways! We do that through our unique content design, focus, approach, and selection of instructors.

Who We Are

We are a team of dynamic, engaging instructors with professionally recognized expertise as pilots, test pilots, and engineers, highly experienced with military and civilian aircraft/engines! Courses are team-taught by award winning educators, typically an aviator and PhD engineer. We are experts in all major disciplines, including:

  • Aerodynamics
  • Propulsion
  • Flight Mechanics
  • Structures & Materials
  • Airframe & Engine Design

In addition, Practical Aeronautics has years of experience in:

  • Ground & Flight Testing
  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Flying & Air Operations
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management
  • Maintenance & Sustainment
  • Structural Repair

John Norton - Freedom Award nominee 20192019 Freedom Award Nominee

Practical Aeronautics was recognized as a 2019 Freedom Award nominee! The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their outstanding support of employees serving in the Guard and Reserve. We are incredibly humbled by the recognition and are honored to continue our support of the United States Military. John Norton, our VP of Aeronautics, attended the Colorado ESGR Awards Banquet, in Colorado Springs, on June 1st.

Leadership

Craig Seymour
President: Craig Seymour, PE
Founder: Wayne F. Hallgren, PhD
Founder: Wayne F. Hallgren, PhD
Vice President for Propulsion: Keith M. Boyer, PhD
Vice President for Propulsion: Keith M. Boyer, PhD
Vice President for Aeronautics: John Norton
Vice President for Aeronautics: John Norton
Structures Director: Angela Trego, PhD, PE
Structures Director: Angela Trego, PE, PMP, FHEA,
jennifer-ellsworth
Operations Manager: Jennifer Ellsworth
Materials and Supplies Director: Joyce Boyer
Materials and Supplies Director: Joyce Boyer

Teaching Associates

  • Dr. John Blanton
    Owner and Chief Engineer, Classic Engineering, LLC
  • Mr. Steve Brandt
    Director of UAV Flight Research at the USAF Academy
  • Dr. Aaron Byerley
    Professor Emeritus, Department of Aeronautics, U.S. Air Force Academy
  • Dr. Brenda A. Haven
    Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering
    Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, Arizona
  • Dr. Link Jaw
    Founder, Scientific Monitoring, Inc.
  • Mr. Mark Jones Jr.
    Flight Test Pilot, Federal Aviation Administration
  • Dr. Kyle Kolsti
    Aeronautical Engineering Consultant
  • Dr. Jack Mattingly
    Professor Emeritus
  • Dr. Walter Merrill
    Founder and President of Bluberry, LLC
  • Dr. Scott Nowlin
    Technical Manager
  • Dr. Kurt Rouser
    Assistant Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
  • Dr. Brian Tom
    Test Director and Test Navigator, Edwards AFB
  • Dr. Kenneth W. Van Treuren
    Professor and Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development, School of Engineering and Computer Science
    Baylor University, Waco, Texas
  • Dr. John B. Wissler
    Colonel, USAF, Retired

Consulting Associates

  • Dr. John D. Anderson, Jr.
    Curator for Aerodynamics, National Air and Space Museum (NASM ) and Professor, University of Maryland
  • Dr. James W. Baughn
    Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering, University of California
  • Dr. Dale A. Cope
    Associate Professor of Practice Mechanical Engineering Department, Texas A&M University
  • Dr. William Heiser
    Professor Emeritus
  • Mr. Randall G. Joslin
    Associate and Systems Engineer, Booze Allen Hamilton, Court Appointed Systems Engineering Expert, Tribunal de Commerce, Paris, France
  • Dr. Steven L. Morris, P.E.
    Principal, Engineering Systems, Inc., Manager of Colorado Operations

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

Contact Information

Practical Aeronautics, Inc.
P.O. Box 461434
Aurora, Colorado 80046-1434

Phone: (719) 659-7319
Email

What’s Special About PAI Courses?

What's special about PAI courses?

After attending a PAI course, you’ll leave with: Improved foundational understanding of airplane … Learn More

Who Should Attend a PAI Course?

Who Should Attend a PAI course?

Which Introductory or Advanced course is right for you? Anyone looking for a “big picture” … Learn More

In Affiliation with Dr. Link Jaw and Dr. Jack Mattingly

Practical Aeronautics is Proud to Offer:
Fundamentals of Aircraft Engine Controls, Accessories, and Health Management

Aircraft Engine Systems Design Introductory Systems Analysis

Aircraft Engine Systems Design Intermediate Engine Design

Aircraft Engine Systems Design Advanced Component Design

Cycle Analysis of Gas Turbine Engines

Why Take A Course with Practical Aero?

More than ever, today’s aircraft are complex systems requiring skilled professionals to combine their specific expertise into a fully integrated vehicle. The professionals who engineer, test, manufacture, and in any way support these aircraft are accomplished specialists, but often lack an overall understanding of the airplane system as a whole. Fundamental understanding of the airplane-engine system gives you improved ability to communicate more effectively and frame thinking beyond your area of expertise.

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