Skyborne has appointed Dan Peterson as Managing Director of Skyborne Airline Academy Inc, Skyborne’s US flight training facility in Vero Beach, Florida, following the retirement of Ed Davidson.

Peterson joins the airline academy after more than 20 years in senior educational roles, most recently as president of Herzing University’s Online Division where he rapidly grew the student population and launched five new programs. Possessing a PhD in curriculum and instruction from Utah State University, Peterson also served for 23 years in the US Air Force and Utah Air National Guard before retiring as a commander in 2008.

Lee Woodward, CEO, Skyborne, says: “Dan’s career demonstrates a track record of success and growth, focused on helping the next generation to thrive. At Skyborne, he will play an active role in overseeing flight training operations and enhancing our growing network of airline partners. I believe Dan will be a valuable asset to our team as we continue our upward trajectory.”

Ed Davidson, former Managing Director at Skyborne, adds: “Leading the Skyborne Vero Beach team has been the highlight of my 50-year aviation career. Since March 2022 there has been a 220% increase in students with more than 300 individuals currently in training and 5,500 training hours per month. I wish Dan all the best in his new role and am confident that he will make a significant impact on Skyborne’s growth and development.”

During his time in education, Peterson also served as President and CEO of Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology where he was instrumental in the evolution of teaching methods for the first FAA approved Hybrid Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) program.