By Mike Greife,
May 5, 2017
WARRENSBURG, MO – John Horine, professor emeritus of aviation at the University of
Central Missouri, recently received the 2017 Friend of Aviation Award from the Missouri
Airport Managers Association at the group’s spring conference.
A veteran in Missouri aviation who has helped countless students enter aviation career
fields, Horine joined the UCM faculty in 1961 as a professor of industrial arts and
technology. He served in that role until 1969, when he became chair of the Department
of Power and Transportation, which included aviation programs. He returned to full-time
teaching in the department in 1990, and continues to teach aviation subjects in retirement
on an adjunct basis.
Through Horine's leadership and efforts, UCM's aviation program has grown into one
of the largest and most respected university aviation training programs in the central
United States, including programs for professional pilot, aircraft maintenance, and
aviation management. He also helped develop the master's degree program in aviation
safety and directed Aerospace Education Workshop classes for teachers the past 35
years. Horine stays active in state aviation issues by serving on MoDOT's Aviation
Advisory Committee.
"Many, many aviation professionals across this nation and world, including me, have
been touched by Dr. Horine's instruction, mentoring, and friendship" said Brian Weiler,
MAMA president and director of the Springfield-Branson National Airport. The Friend
of Aviation Award was developed to recognize individuals that have made a significant
contribution to support Missouri aviation.
Horine said he was touched and honored to accept this award. "I have made many friends
and had much career fulfillment supporting this aviation industry that I love,” he
said.
MAMA is comprised of administrators and operators of public use airports in Missouri.
The organization provides a voice on issues impacting airports and offer professional
development opportunities for members through education and networking.
