Academic Chair – Aviation Programs

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology; Calgary; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 134,000; Full time

Job summary

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology is seeking an Academic Chair for its School of Transportation. This role involves overseeing program administration, leading curriculum development, and fostering industry partnerships. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aviation or education, exceptional leadership skills, and a commitment to enhancing student success.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in aviation, aerospace, or post-secondary education.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Broad understanding of current trends in aviation or education.

Responsibilities

• Oversee program administration including budgeting and faculty recruitment.
• Lead curriculum development and ensure academic excellence.
• Enhance student experience through effective management of key performance indicators.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Time Management

Financial Acumen

Coaching

Education

Master’s degree in a related field

Designation as a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer

Job description

SAIT’s School of Manufacturing and Automation, and School of Transportation provides the skills-based training and development to prepare students for a career in Alberta's rapidly growing transportation, manufacturing and automation sectors. We provide applied learning in action through our trades and technology programs.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Associate Dean - Aviation and Technology, the Academic Chair will co-lead a portfolio of educational programs within the School of Transportation. You will oversee the development and delivery of curriculum to adult learners, and nurture relationships with industry partners to ensure high quality, relevant curriculum. Additionally, you will propel continuous improvement activities and entrepreneurial thinking to establish the school as the premiere educational institution in Alberta. Look forward to collaborating on school and institutional initiatives connected to SAIT’s Strategic Plan and Education Plan, in the areas of student success, employee engagement, and innovation in applied education and partnerships.

The Role

• Oversee program administration, including budgeting, forecasting, faculty and student recruitment, and assignment of teaching responsibilities.
• Lead academic excellence in the areas of teaching, curriculum development, credentials, and innovation.
• Enhance the student experience through effective management of learner satisfaction, enrollment, and other key performance indicators.
• Drive stakeholder engagement and market relevance through the development of new programs and growth opportunities.
• Cultivate and strengthen relationships with internal and external stakeholders across SAIT and the broader aviation industry.
• Champion teaching excellence through consistent support, monitoring, and measurement.
• Inspire and empower faculty by providing ongoing coaching and support, with a focus on fair and transparent performance management.
• Ensure consistent application of SAIT policies, procedures, collective agreements, and workplace practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• Designation as a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, or an advanced degree in a related field (master’s preferred).
• Proven leadership experience in aviation, aerospace, or post-secondary education.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with strong interpersonal abilities.
• Proven ability to coach, mentor, and support a diverse team of professionals.
• Broad understanding of current and emerging trends in aviation or post-secondary education.
• Strong prioritization and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated financial and business acumen, with a successful track record in operational management.

Job classification: M1110 - Academic Chair

Salary range: 120,098.00- 133,495.00

# of positions: 1

Hours Per Week: 37.5

Posting closing date: June 5th, 2025

About SAIT

SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.

Building on our 100+ year history, we’re looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.

Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is essential to achieving SAIT’s vision to be a global leader in applied education. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, people from gender and sexually diverse communities, and/or people with intersectional identities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.

At SAIT, we understand that experience comes in many forms. We’re dedicated to adding diverse perspectives to SAIT - so if your experience is close to what we’re looking for, please consider applying.

SAIT is committed to supporting persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. We will work with applicants to provide accommodations upon request to the Talent Advisor.

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