DSU certifies new crop of ag pilots

Cleveland, MS (06/17/2025) — Contact: Christy Riddle FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: (662) 846-4336

Email: criddle@deltastate.edu

DSU certifies new crop of ag pilots

CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University hosted a certification ceremony on Thursday, May 29, to recognize graduates of the Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway program. The event was held at The Gin in the West End District and celebrated a new generation of skilled aviation professionals poised to support Mississippi's vital agricultural sector.

The program is the result of DSU's collaboration with area ag pilots, the Cleveland Airport Board and many others. The Delta State University Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway is a $2 million Congressional award that is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Additional training and supportive services funds were provided for the students by AccelerateMS and the Mississippi Office of Apprenticeship, MDES, through South Delta Planning and Development District.

Marshall Tomlinson, Director of Flight Operations, opened the ceremony, followed by an invocation from Prayers for Pilots representative Brett Morgan. The program featured a special introductory video and welcoming remarks delivered on behalf of the Honorable U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith by her Field Representative, Bill Crump.

Hyde-Smith congratulated Mississippi's newest ag pilots, saying, "I regret that I couldn't be there in person to join you in celebrating this milestone. I congratulate each of you for achieving something remarkable through your dedication, skill, perseverance in the Delta State aerial applicator pilot training program. Partnering with Delta State to launch this program has been very satisfying, and one of the most satisfying parts of my career as a United States Senator."

The importance of agricultural aviation and workforce development in rural Mississippi was underscored by guest speakers Ike Brunetti of DRAFT, LLC, and Mitzi Woods of South Delta Planning and Development District. Their remarks highlighted collaborative efforts to expand opportunities for young pilots through education and training.

Delta State Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leslie Griffin joined Tomlinson in presenting certificates to the program graduates, recognizing their dedication and readiness to contribute to the agricultural aviation industry.

The ceremony also included acknowledgment of the William Austin Scrogin Agricultural Aviation Scholarship by Calvin Lang and the presentation of the Conner Lang Agricultural Aviation Scholarship.

Graduates of the 2025 Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway program include:

Alex Allstun - Oakland, MS

Hunter Gilmore - Sidon, MS

Ethan Gremillion - Cleveland, MS

Drex Housley - Cleveland, MS

Zack Mitchell - Kossuth, MS

Bethany Rayman - Cleveland, MS

Callie Rodriquez - Cleveland, MS

Andrew Rowsey - Corinth, MS

In her closing remarks, Griffin emphasized the University's commitment to aligning educational offerings with workforce needs in the Mississippi Delta and beyond. "Students earning certification through the Agricultural Aviation Pathway have been exposed to cutting-edge technology preparing them to provide accurate and safe aerial applications in agricultural areas. I am pleased that Delta State University is at the forefront of this program and the preparation it represents."

The event concluded with a reception, where attendees had the opportunity to meet with graduates, faculty, and industry partners.

For more information about the Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway and Delta State's aviation programs, visit www.deltastate.edu/business-aviation/commercial-aviation/.

Cutline: DSU Aviation students completing the Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway program were recognized during their recent certification ceremony.

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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.

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