Incredible Aviation: Top Hawk 2016

It's a powerhouse partnership: the renowned Cessna Aircraft Company has teamed up with LeTourneau University Aviation, Texas' only comprehensive, university-level aviation program.

LETU's Skyhawk 172S

Cessna, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, chose LETU as one of four universities in the nation as a Top Hawk Partner University. Partners are chosen based on their commitment to excellence in aviation and training the next generation of pilots.

Along with the partnership, LETU has received a brand-new Cessna Skyhawk 172S, custom-branded with LETU colors and logo. The aircraft will be used to conduct flight training and for outreach and recruiting trips across the country.

Director of Flight Operations Laura Laster explains the benefit of adding the aircraft to LETU's fleet:

"The Top Hawk program will give LETU students and flight instructors a unique opportunity to build flight experience while sharing the joy of aviation with people all over Texas and beyond. All of our students will benefit from the use of a brand-new Cessna Skyhawk 172S, as they will be able to utilize the aircraft for flight training activities."

One LETU aviation student will land a coveted internship with Cessna, where he or she will job-shadow different positions and take part in marketing, sales and customer service events.

The Cessna Skyhawk 172S is officially presented to LETU.

The Skyhawk 172S was recently unveiled at LETU's world-class Abbott Aviation Center where it received a warm welcome from students and faculty.

"I have accepted a summer internship in flight operations at Textron Aviation (outside of the Top Hawk program). Working with Top Hawk will give me even more exposure to some of the products I may be working with this summer," LETU aviation student Kyle van Kooten said. "I'm excited to be a part of this program as it allows me to promote involvement in a field I am passionate about and in which LeTourneau excels."

Want to take a ride in the Cessna Skyhawk 172S? Schedule a free flight here.