UAA aviation professor Mark Madden renews prestigious Master Instructor certification

Mark E. Madden, professor of aviation technology at UAA as well as an independent Merrill Field (PAMR) flight instructor, recently renewed his accreditation as a Master Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) through Master Instructors LLC, the international accrediting authority for Master Instructor designations as well as the FAA-approved Master Instructor Program.

Mark first earned this national professional accreditation in 2008, has held it continuously since then and is one of only 106 worldwide to earn the credential three times.

To help put these achievements into their proper perspective, there are approximately 96,000 CFIs in the United States. Fewer than 700 of those aviation educators have achieved that distinction thus far. The last 17 national Flight Instructors of the Year were Master CFIs. Mark is one of only three Alaska teachers of flight to earn this prestigious "Master" title.

In the words of former FAA Administrator Marion Blakey, "The Master Instructor accreditation singles out the best that the right seat has to offer."

Candidates for the Master Instructor designation must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to excellence, professional growth and service to the aviation community and must pass a rigorous evaluation by a peer Board of Review. The process parallels the continuing education regimen used by other professionals to enhance their knowledge base while increasing their professionalism. Designees are recognized as outstanding aviation educators for not only their excellence in teaching, but for their engagement in the continuous process of learning -- both their own, and their students'. The designation must be renewed biennially and significantly surpasses the FAA requirements for renewal of the candidate's flight instructor certificate.

Congratulations, Mark, on the accomplishment!