UFV alumna Kristin Long illustrates how aviation careers can extend far beyond flying aircraft. Her journey—from early inspiration and pilot training to becoming a Boeing 737 captain, mentor, and industry leader—demonstrates the importance of professionalism, leadership, and business understanding within aviation. Through mentoring future pilots, supporting women in aviation, and contributing to airline leadership culture, Long’s experience reflects how modern aviation professionals often combine technical expertise with management and organizational skills.
The University of the Fraser Valley offers two aviation-focused business programs designed to prepare students for both flight operations and leadership roles within the industry.
Aviation — Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
The Bachelor of Business Administration (Aviation) is a four-year degree that combines professional pilot training with a comprehensive business education. The program is designed for students who plan to become professional pilots while also developing analytical, communication, and management skills relevant to airline and airport operations.
Program details
- Credential: Bachelor’s degree
- Duration: 4 years
- Start dates: January, September
- Location: Abbotsford campus
Students complete their flight training through an external flight school of their choice, with flexibility to complete Transport Canada certifications before, during, or after their academic studies. Required certifications include a Private Pilot Licence, Commercial Pilot Licence, Instrument Rating, and either a Multi-Engine or Flight Instructor Rating. In recognition of the rigour of pilot training, UFV awards a minimum of 30 academic credits toward the degree, with up to six additional credits for further ratings.
Academically, students complete business courses in accounting, marketing, management, economics, and communications. The program also includes aviation-focused business courses such as airline management and international air transportation. Students may add a business major or minor and can apply to participate in paid co-op work terms in business roles within or outside the aviation sector.
Graduates are prepared for careers as professional pilots, corporate or charter operators, airline captains, airport administrators, or operations managers.
Business Administration (Aviation) Diploma
The Business Administration (Aviation) diploma is a two-year program designed to provide a strong foundation in business while recognizing advanced aviation training. As with the degree program, pilot training is completed through an external flight school, and students may choose when to complete their Transport Canada certifications.
Program details
- Credential: Diploma
- Duration: 2 years
- Start dates: January, May, September
- Location: Abbotsford campus
Upon completion of Private and Commercial Pilot Licences, UFV awards up to 30 academic credits toward the diploma. The academic portion includes core business courses in accounting, economics, marketing, communications, human resources, and management, totaling approximately 30–33 credits.
This diploma prepares graduates for entry-level roles within the aviation industry or on-demand aviation service providers by combining technical aviation knowledge with practical business skills. Students may also participate in co-op education, completing paid work terms in business settings. Graduates who wish to advance further can apply to continue their studies in the Bachelor of Business Administration (Aviation).
Preparing for Leadership in Aviation
Industry projections cited by Boeing indicate continued global demand for pilots through 2042, driven by industry recovery and retirements. UFV’s aviation programs are structured to address this demand by integrating flight training with business education, preparing graduates not only to operate aircraft, but also to contribute to leadership, management, and decision-making roles across the aviation sector.
Together, the success of alumni such as Kristin Long and the structure of UFV’s aviation programs reflect an approach to aviation education that emphasizes professionalism, leadership, and long-term career development—both in the air and on the ground.
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Source:Opening doors in aviation: UFV alumna Kristin Long demonstrates leadership beyond the flight deck , Aviation — Bachelor of Business Administration | UFV, Business Diploma (Aviation) | UFV
