Dr. Juan Merkt Elected to AABI Board of Trustees
Keaton S. Ziem
Keaton S. Ziem
/
Keaton S. Ziem
Jun 07, 2017, 10:00 AM
Dr. Juan Merkt, Ph.D., Chair and Associate Professor for the Department of Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott Campus, was elected to the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) Board of Trustees for a three-year term, and will act as a representative for Embry-Riddle as an Educator Trustee. Merkt’s term, which starts July 2017, is the culmination of over 20 years of active membership within the AABI—with Merkt previously serving as chair of the AABI’s International and Criteria Committees since 2004 and 2007, respectively.
The AABI serves to advance the quality of aviation education worldwide by stimulating collegiate aviation programs toward excellence and self-improvement. The AABI establishes uniform minimum educational quality standards, and seeks to increase the credibility, integrity, and acceptance of collegiate aviation programs within institutions of higher education, the aviation community, industries, government, and public-at-large.
Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus currently has four bachelor’s degrees, and one master’s degree, accredited by the AABI, including:
- B.S. in Aeronautical Science – Professional Pilot Fixed Wing Specialty
- B.S. in Aviation Business Administration – Flight Operations Fixed Wing
- B.S. in Aviation Business Administration – Airport Management
- B.S. in Aviation Business Administration – Management
- M.S. in Safety Science
Merkt was the recipient of the 2013 AABI Paul Whelan Educator Award for his efforts to improve aviation education and advance accreditation. His research interests include energy management as a best practice to enhance aviation safety and efficiency.
“It will be a great honor and privilege to serve in the AABI Board of Trustees representing Embry-Riddle,” said Merkt. “I look forward to working with the board to promote excellence in college aviation and, through accreditation, continue to raise the standards in aviation education and training around the world.”
The Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) is a non-profit organization consisting of educational institutions, corporations, practitioners, trade organizations, regulators and members of the public-at-large. Its mission is to advance quality aviation education worldwide through accreditation and leadership. CHEA recognized, AABI is the premier, specialized accrediting agency for collegiate aviation programs.