Michael Mower
Executive Director of SUU Aviation / Chief Flight Instructor
January 26th, 2021
11:30 AM - 12:20 PM
BUS 126
Specializing in pilot training, aviation safety, and aerial search and rescue
Michael Mower is the executive director and chief flight instructor for Southern Utah University's aviation program. Mower brings his years of service in the United States Air Force to the classroom, enriching discussions and interactions with current students.
During his time in the Air Force, Mower worked in the fuels and cryogenics lab and was the lead instructor for the Honor Guard detachment at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. After leaving the Air Force, Mower started a research and development company specializing in advanced metals and cutting edge heat-treating protocols. Through this research, Mower has authored or co-authored multiple patents.
In 2013, Mower started SUU’s aviation program with a small staff and 30 students. Under his leadership, the program has more than tripled in size with 75 instructors and 285 students. He has a skilled and diverse team that is able to offer instruction on aircraft safety, maintenance, fixed wing and rotor wing. With the recent growth, the aviation program has made Cedar City Regional Airport the second busiest airport in the state of Utah. The Iron County Sheriff’s Air Operation Division heavily relies on SUU’s pilots and instructors to assist in aerial surveillance, pursuit, drug interdiction, and search and rescue efforts. This service is provided free of charge to the citizens of Iron County and the surrounding municipalities.
As a veteran, Mower understands the needs of his student veterans and advocates on their behalf. As an active lobbyist for veterans rights in Washington D.C., Mower understood the value in developing mutually beneficial relationships with key representatives and senators. Mower earned his commercial pilot’s license in 2012 and his flight instructor license in 2014.