Texas-based flight training leader now offers three direct paths into aviation—pilot, aircraft maintenance, and flight dispatch—under one trusted brand.

Thrust Flight, the nationally recognized aviation training provider behind the Zero Time to Airline® pilot program, is expanding its footprint in aviation education with the launch of a new Aircraft & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic School in Conroe, Texas and a new FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher program at its North Texas campuses in Addison and Denison. These additions solidify Thrust Flight’s position as a comprehensive training hub for today’s most in-demand aviation careers.

“Aviation doesn’t just rely on pilots; it’s powered by a team of skilled professionals on the ground and behind the scenes,” said Patrick Arnzen, CEO and Founder of Thrust Flight. “Our mission is to open doors across the entire aviation workforce, from the cockpit to the control room to the hangar. We want students to know that if you’re serious about aviation, we’ll turn your goals into a flight plan for success.”

Conroe Campus Offers Accelerated Path to A&P Certification

Located at Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport–central to Houston’s growing aerospace industry–the new Thrust Institute of Maintenance welcomed its first class of A&P mechanic students on July 16, 2025.

The 12-month FAA Part 147 program prepares students to earn their Airframe and Powerplant certification, a credential in high demand across commercial airlines, independent maintenance organizations, and charter and cargo operators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, aircraft mechanics and service technicians earn a median annual wage of $75,270, with top earners exceeding six figures.

Unlike traditional programs that take 20 to 28 months, Thrust Flight’s accelerated model trains students in just one year through hands-on experience with real aircraft components, one-on-one instruction, and small, 15-student cohorts. Day and night class options offer ultimate flexibility for working professionals in the process of changing careers.

FAA-Approved Dispatcher Training Adds Third Career Path

On May 14, 2025, the FAA granted Thrust Flight approval to offer a Part 65 Aircraft Dispatcher certification program. The five-week course (three weeks with prior credit) trains students for one of the most critical and often overlooked roles in commercial aviation: coordinating flight plans, monitoring weather, and ensuring flight crews are equipped with everything needed for safe, compliant operations.

Led by veteran instructor Rick Sanchez, the course launched with an internal beta class in July. The first public cohort will begin January 2026 at Thrust Flight’s Addison and Denison campuses, with additional locations to follow.

A Unified Gateway to In-Demand Aviation Careers

With pilot, maintenance, and dispatcher training now integrated across its suite of programs, Thrust Flight offers multiple entry points throughout the year and flexible financing options for students seeking stable, high-paying aviation careers—no four-year degree required.

“Whether you're starting from scratch, pivoting from another industry, or trying to complete training that got interrupted, we’ve built programs that help you move forward fast,” said Arnzen. “This is about meeting students where they are today, and equipping them with the skills, confidence and momentum to lead the aviation workforce of tomorrow.”

About Thrust Flight

Thrust Flight is a nationally recognized aviation training provider with locations across Texas. Over the past 15 years, the company has trained thousands of pilots through its flagship Zero Time to Airline® program, preparing them to fly for commercial airlines around the globe. Today, Thrust Flight offers a full suite of FAA-approved programs for pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and flight dispatchers, supporting every stage of the aviation career journey. Learn more at thrustflight.com and thrustinstitute.com.

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Our mission is to open doors across the entire aviation workforce, from the cockpit to the control room to the hangar. We want students to know that if you’re serious about aviation, we’ll turn your goals into a flight plan for success.