Building on the success of its inaugural class, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) and Ogeechee Technical College (Ogeechee Tech) are partnering with Savannah Aviation to put students in the pilot’s seat this fall. The launch of the second Private Pilot Ground School cohort provides aspiring aviators with an affordable, accessible first step toward earning their Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) private pilot certificate. 

Classes begin Monday, Sept. 21 at Ogeechee Tech and Tuesday, Sept. 22 at Savannah Tech and will prepare students for the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test through a comprehensive six-week curriculum led by experienced flight instructors. The course combines in-person classroom instruction with interactive online learning, equipping students with the knowledge needed to earn an endorsement to take the FAA written examination. 

Designed for students exploring aviation as either a career or a recreational pursuit, the course covers essential topics including aerodynamics, weather, airspace, FAA regulations, aircraft systems, navigation and flight operations. The curriculum also provides a strong educational foundation for individuals interested in drone operations, as many of the concepts overlap with FAA remote pilot certification requirements. 

"This course removes barriers for people who have always wanted to learn about aviation but weren't sure where to begin," said Tim McGrew, Director of Operations at Savannah Aviation. "Whether someone dreams of becoming a professional pilot or simply wants to fly for personal enjoyment, ground school is the first step." 

The program welcomes students from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. Previous participants have ranged from teenagers exploring aviation careers to retirees pursuing a lifelong interest in flying. 

In addition to preparing students for the FAA written examination, instructors introduce participants to the broader aviation industry and the progression from private pilot certification to advanced ratings and professional opportunities. While a private pilot certificate does not permit pilots to fly for compensation or hire, it serves as the foundational credential for those pursuing commercial aviation careers. 

"Aviation is more accessible than many people realize," said Grant Oliver, Assistant Chief Flight Instructor at Savannah Aviation. "We also know that committing to flight training is a big step. We are happy to arrange discovery flights to take students up in an actual plane first, giving them the opportunity to make sure this is a path they truly want to take." 

Oliver continued, “This course is designed to offer students the knowledge and confidence to take that first step, whether they're pursuing a lifelong dream, exploring a new career path or simply wanting to understand the science and skill behind flight. We want people to know there's a place for them in aviation." 

The goal of this joint initiative is to ensure high-demand aviation training is highly accessible to aspiring pilots across Southeast Georgia. By actively removing geographic barriers, the colleges are giving students throughout Bulloch, Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Screven and surrounding counties the power to choose the campus location that best fits their life. As this collaboration grows, college leaders envision expanded flight training options and the development of professional pilot education pathways. 

The cost of the Private Pilot Ground School is $1,000. To ensure regional accessibility, the six-week course is offered at two separate campus locations. Both cohorts meet two evenings a week to accommodate working professionals. 

• Ogeechee Tech: Mondays and Wednesdays (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) | Sept. 21 – Oct. 28 
• Savannah Tech: Tuesdays and Thursdays (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) | Sept. 22 – Oct. 29 

Enrollment is now open for the September cohorts. Visit the respective links below for more information or to register: 

Ogeechee Tech: https://www.ogeecheetech.edu/continuing-education/continuing-ed-classes  

Savannah Tech: https://www.savannahtech.edu/workforce-training/continuing-education-courses/