A Letter from the Dean

In 2000 the Leadership Team of the Odegard School built a strategic plan titled “Odegard 2010.” This plan included strengthening the academic programs by growing the Masters and Ph. D. degree offerings, building a new Earth Systems Department for the new world of environmental sciences, and maintaining cutting edge technologies for all of the academic disciplines. The three biggest surprises that weren’t listed in Odegard 2010 were: the extensive international training programs; the burgeoning programs in unmanned, or remotely piloted aircraft; and major cash infusions from the federal government, our incredible benefactors, and the State of North Dakota. Remember when John Odegard promised “that we wouldn’t cost the State a cent.” The State has now started to invest in our success.

The other amazing events that took place were almost expected, but still nevertheless equally spectacular; like the high resolution agricultural camera (ISSAC) on the International Space Station, the Mars Space Suit, the DC-8 and Citation II weather research jets, the vertical and horizontal launch spacecraft simulators, our networks, social media recruiting, iPod training media, the new east/west runway, and even a billboard highlighting the Odegard School on I-94 outside of the Twin Cities.

So what does Odegard 2020 hold in store for us? I would only guess more of the same. If it is at the cutting edge of new programs or technologies in Aviationzt, Atmospheric Sciences, Computer Science, Earth Systems Science, or Space Studies, you can be certain that the Odegard School will be at the forefront.

All of our academic programs are focused on the future. All of our training technologies, equipment, weather radar, simulators, and aircraft are new and state of the art. All of our faculty, staff, instructors, and mechanics are simply the best. It only stands to reason that our students, parents, and alumni are the best.

As your travels bring you close to Grand Forks, please plan to visit the Odegard School. You will be amazed at what the future holds for us. Sincerely,

Bruce Smith, Dean
John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences


Aerospace Catalog Information