North Central Institute
N ove m b e r 2 0 1 3
“Education is our Business”
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
25th Anniversary
AMT Corner
Dean’s List & Honor Roll
Scholarship
NCI Open House
Laboratory Addition
Student Corner
NCI Anniversaries
NCI Staff Enrichment
Information Technology
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NCI’S Upcoming Events
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Nov 9-17 5 AMT 65 Course
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Nov 18 AMT 147 Registration
Deadline
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Nov 22 New Student Orientation
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Nov 28-29 Closed Thanksgiving
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Dec 2 AMT 147 New Term Begins
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Dec 14-22 AMT 65 Course
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Dec 23-27 Closed Christmas
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Jan 1 Closed New Year’s Day
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Jan 18-19 FCC Course
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Jan 20 Closed MLK Holiday
N C I ’ S 2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY !
PA R T 3 - C A T C H I N G T H E D R E A M
Behind every great institution is an individual
who provided the dream and the drive to
make that business a success. For NCI, that
driving force is Dr. John D. McCurdy, owner
and CEO.
Prior to pursuing this dream of an educational
institution that offered career advancement
and practical skills to students, Dr. McCurdy
enlisted in the United States Army and ultimately attended OCS. His love for education
and personal enrichment began at this time
as he pursued his educational goals, earning
Happiness is not something
you postpone for the future; it a B.S. and M.B.A.A. from Embry-Riddle Aerois something you design
nautical University (ERAU). During his
for the present.
military service, he also became a pilot
and completed two tours in Vietnam.
~ Jim Rohn
While there, Dr. McCurdy initiated, orAmerican Entrepreneur, Author
ganized and led a group of volunteers
& Motivational Speaker
to teach English to the natives, requesting donated supplies from his
hometown in Sidney, Montana. This experience ignited a spark – an unwavering drive to
make a difference in the world and a dream to
provide education to others in the United
States.
Eventually retiring in 1979 as a Lieutenant
Colonel, his aspirations continued beyond the
military as he earned a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) degree from Toledo University. His education, experience and
leadership essentially lead to a position
as a Professor and Center Director for
ERAU. With this well-known aviation
school, (Continued on page 2)
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N C I ’ S 2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY
(Continued from page 1)
Dr. McCurdy managed the establishment of ERAU on military installations, from Fort Campbell to Germany and other locations domestic and abroad. The culmination of these invaluable experiences
essentially established the infrastructure for the post-secondary
institution known today as North Central Institute.
Throughout the 25 years of operation, Dr. McCurdy applied his talents and
knowledge to the establishment of an institution dedicated to helping members of the Ft. Campbell and Clarksville communities pursue higher educational and professional goals. He provides a role model for students, staff
and community members alike through his example of character and altruism. During his time as President of NCI, Dr. McCurdy established NCI scholarships, promoted sportsmanship throughout the community, donated to
and volunteered for local charities and events, forged paths of excellence
and success for private post-secondary schools in Tennessee, and encouraged others to participate and continue the spirit of involvement and improvement for our local schools and businesses.
The impact of such an influential figure in our community is immeasurable. Dr. McCurdy’s actions reverberate literally throughout
the world, as each NCI graduate pursues a career in aviation
maintenance. As a devoted, knowledgeable and inspirational figure, Dr. McCurdy provides the foundation for other dreamers and
serves as an example that success is within reach for those who
strive to better themselves. On behalf of NCI students, staff and
faculty as well as members of our community, we would like to extend a genuine and heartfelt thank you for your service, contributions, and commitment to a brighter future. May the dream continue for another 25 years!
Do not follow where the path may lead. Go,
instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
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AMT CORNER
AMT Graduation
On October 8, 2013, NCI congratulated another graduating class! Through hard work and determination, these
students have completed the first step in many toward a
rewarding career as an aviation maintenance technician. Graduates, as you pursue your professional aspirations, remember that
“the most important persuasion tool you have in your entire arsenal
is integrity” (Zig Ziglar, Motivational Author and Speaker). By continuing the hard work and dedication, you can achieve your professional goals. The best of luck and congratulations!
Graduates include:
Scott Angus - PP / Program Completer
Tony Beatty - GN / PP
Deborah Bryant - PP/Program Completer
Kareem Butler - GN / AF
Jason Dertz - PP / Program Completer
Allen Fruge - PP / Program Completer
Raymond Hazelwood - PP / Program Completer
Joshua Lewis - PP / Program Completer
Benjamin McClain - GN / PP
Christopher Mead - PP
Patrick Mount - GN / AF / PP Program Completer
Jerrit Park-White - GN / AF
Ramiro Perdomo, Valedictorian - GN / AF, FCC License
Jason Reese - PP / Program Completer
Gregory Rempfer - GN / PP
Joshua Rutherford - GN / PP, FCC License
Daniel Sackett - PP / Program Completer
Justin Smith - PP / Program Completer
Sarah Ware - GN / PP
Joseph White - PP / Program Completer
Joshua Youngblood - PP / Program Completer
General (GN), Airframe (AF), and Powerplant (PP)
Don’tjudgeeachdaybythe
harvestyoureapbutbythe
seedsthatyouplant.
~RobertLouisStevenson
Dean’s List & Honor Roll
NCI stresses the importance of academics as well as hands-on knowledge and skills in each class offered. Academic success is
often a sign of professionalism, integrity and determination – key traits for a successful aviation maintenance technician. Congratulations to those students who met the challenge and excelled!
Those awarded academic honors include:
Dean’s List: Jason Dertz, Michael Flanagan, Ashley Gibbs, Terry Gibson, Robert Lease, Jerrit Park-White,
Ramiro Perdomo, Gregory Rempfer, Joshua Rutherford, Charles Steeves, Joseph White, Andrew Winters
Honor Roll: Scott Angus, Kareem Butler, Allen Fruge, Daniel Fulk, Raymond Hazelwood, Joshua Lewis, Benjamin McClain, Christopher Mead, Ralph Newkirk, Sarah Ware
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SCHOLARSHIP
Bob Minter, the Scholarship Administrator and Chairman of the Tennessee Aviation
Hall of Fame and Southeast Regional Representative for the Aircraft Owners & Pilots
Association, announced NCI student, Anthony Maxwell, as the recipient of the John T.
Baugh Aviation Excellence Scholarship in September, 2013. The Tennessee Museum
of Aviation in Sevierville established the scholarship fund in 2002 to recognize and
support those extraordinary students pursuing an education in the aviation field.
In addition to this scholarship, Mr. Maxwell also earned the William M. Fanning
Maintenance Scholarship, named in honor of retired National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) staff member, William M. Fanning. The NBAA only awards two scholarships annually in the amount of $2500 – one awarded to a student currently enrolled
in a FAR Part 147 aviation maintenance school and the other awarded to a student
accepted but not currently enrolled into an A&P program.
Mr. Maxwell, a former helicopter repairer in the U.S. Army, currently attends NCI’s Aviation Maintenance Technician
Program (AMT 147) while working full-time at a hospital. Additionally, Mr. Maxwell is the current President of the Nu
Chi Iota chapter of the Alpha Eta Rho aviation fraternity. Upon completion of the program, he will pursue a career as
a non-destructive inspector with the intent to ultimately work as a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) inspector.
Congratulations to Anthony Maxwell for these special achievements!
NCI OPEN HOUSE
In celebration of 25 years of business, NCI hosted an Open House and Career Fair on September 19. Current students and recent graduates enjoyed
the opportunity to speak with business representatives, such as Arthur Fields
from Endeavor Air. Students learned about the job opportunities presently
available in the field as well as the qualities, experience and education these
companies prefer in potential
employees.
NCI also opened the campus doors for prospective students to tour the
facilities. Visitors enjoyed the opportunity to speak with faculty and
staff about the intensive aviation maintenance education that potentially leads to a fast-track career in the aviation industry. Laboratory
tours and demonstrations, provided by students and faculty, were also
available to those visitors interested in the technical experience of an
NCI student and aviation maintenance technician.
Thank you to all of the participants and guests for showing your
support for NCI and our students! As members of the Clarksville/Ft. Campbell communities, this symbiotic relationship between schools and businesses is essential for professional success for each student and employer. We hope to see you at our
next community event!
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L A B O R AT O RY A D D I T I O N
In late August, 2013, NCI received the fuselage of a Hughes OH-6 Cayuse helicopter for development of students’ practical skills in the laboratory. Don Leaser, Laboratory Technician, has begun the work on refurbishing this aircraft for
student use during the hands-on technical training of their education. While the
process will be long and arduous, Mr. Leaser has already utilized NCI supplies to
add a tail fin and vertical boom. Likewise, he has repainted the interior white
and plans on repainting the exterior red with silver striping by employing his excellent skills and applying “The Donald Touch”, his personal craftsman talent to
the project. The ultimate goal is to emulate an MH-6 helicopter, a lightweight
aircraft used primarily for transport and attack missions.
Students will eventually install and remove an Allison 250 engine from the aircraft,
exercising critical hands-on knowledge and skill while gaining practical experience necessary for successful employment. This kind of actual hands-on training is crucial for
thoroughly understanding the maintenance process and applying that knowledge in
the workplace, thus allowing NCI to produce more viable employees upon graduation.
Ultimately, Mr. Leaser also hopes to install electrical wiring, instruments and gas
tank to the aircraft. Not only will students practice installation and removal, but they
will also be able to run the engine within the helicopter itself, providing a first-hand
experience of the reward of excellent maintenance and repair. This technical experience provides the practical application of classroom information, but more importantly, boosts the confidence of students preparing for a professional career.
Follow the progress of our newest laboratory addition in a future edition of the Navigator. Mr. Leaser will be sure to
produce a quality aircraft that students will enjoy for years to come!
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STUDENT CORNER
Front Row: Josh Rutherford, Tony Beatty, Christopher Mead, Tyler Oldfield, David Selph, Taylor Bell, Charles Steeves, Robert Lease, Jordan Watts. Back Row:
Greg Rempfer, Andrew Winters, Chris Stocks, Valkeith Williams, Ronnie Thompson, Zachery Gowin, Kenneth Stai, Michael Flanagan, Neil Murphy.
NCI AMT 147 students demonstrate their handiwork in the Aircraft Finishes course instructed by Steve Wilson and
Samson Peltier. Upon completion of the practical project, the students show off their painting, lettering and finishing
skills as well as artwork design. Amazing job, NCI students!
NCI recently initiated a recycling program on school grounds as part of the green certification for the
business. The Nu Chi Iota chapter of the Alpha Eta Rho fraternity also contributed to the recycling efforts as part of their community service commitment. AMT 147 student and fraternity member, Josh
Rutherford, regularly collects cans from the student and staff break areas for the recycling effort.
Dale Roberts, Building Maintenance and Lawn Care, collects plastic bottles, paper, and
cardboard. NCI values the achievements of Nu Chi Iota members, our students and staff,
supporting and encouraging those efforts to provide a better tomorrow for our school and
the community in general. Well done, and thank you for the outstanding service!
NCI ANNIVERSARIES
The diligence and experience of the NCI staff provide the backbone and support for our students and business operations. NCI
would like to extend a special acknowledgement to those employees celebrating an employment anniversary. Thank you for all
of your contributions to the school and to the future of NCI graduates!
September 14 – Keith Svadba, Instructor, 3 years
September 22 – Jennifer Tice, Admin. Staff & Adjunct Instructor, 5 years
September 27 – Jeff Roorda, Instructor, 1 year
November 23 – Samson Peltier, Instructor, 4 years
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NCI S TA F F E NRIC HM ENT
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 Starting August 13, 2013, NCI attended 3 separate Green Workshops provided by the City of Clarksville’s Chamber of Commerce. NCI staff in attendance at the workshops include Tamela Taliento, NCI President; Amanda Wilson,
Executive Administrative Assistant; and Lindsey Summers, AMT Administrative Assistant. NCI completed the workshops on October 8 and currently is completing the remainder of the processing to be recognized as a participating
business in the Clarksville-Montgomery County Green Certification program.
On August 23 in Clarksville, Tamela Taliento, President, and Amanda Wilson, Executive Administrative Assistant, attended a
conference titled Dealing with Difficult People. In direct support of our mission, this conference further aids NCI staff and
encourages excellence in administrative functions.
Michelle Hartson, Registrar, and Amanda Wilson, Executive Administrative Assistant, attended the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) workshop on September 17. NCI is authorized by THEC and must meet standards for quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility. This informational workshop covered the reauthorization process and provided an overview of current rules and regulations.
On September 24, Tamela Taliento attended a Women In Business conference in Clarksville, TN at the Hilton
Garden Inn. Primarily, the conference focused on growth, both in business and personal pursuits. As businesswomen in the local community, the attendees were encouraged to pursue career and personal goals
through organization, self-confidence, and adaptability. The conference also discussed the benefits of learning from ordinary life situations that could provide invaluable lessons for success, an essential philosophy for
both the success of NCI and our students.
 Dale Wood, Dean of Admissions, and Matt McCaslin, Accounts Receivable, have attended several college and
career fairs over the last three months in the surrounding Tennessee and Kentucky communities. Each of these NCI
representatives has worked arduously to increase public awareness of the education and viable career options provided by our school to our community members. For more information, please contact Dale Wood at admissions@nci.edu.
INFORMATIO N TECHNOLOGY
Calling all AMT 147 and AMT 65 graduates! Be an inspiration to current
and future students! NCI would like to hear positive testimonials regarding your current employment and successes in the aviation industry.
Please submit your encouraging testimonials to
www.facebook.com/NorthCentralInstitute/ or send an email to careerservices@nci.edu. Contribute to the future of aviation maintenance
students today!
As always, please visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NorthCentralInstitute/. We regularly post photos showcasing the knowledge
and skills earned by NCI students. Share the NCI experience today!
North Central Institute
168 Jack Miller Blvd
Clarksville, TN 37042
(right across from Gate 1)
“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to
become a man of value.”
~ Albert Einstein, Theoretical Physicist