Aviation Degree Expansion
The future of Aviation is now.
This project exemplifies CWU's aviation program through modernization and engagement .
This $9.9M project is funded by the Washington State Legislature to enhance the flight training facility at Bower Field in Ellensburg. The design concept of this annex addition will centralize aviation curriculum with the specialized instructors to create a submersive learning experience to the future leaders in the field of aviation. CWU's Aviation program is one of the very few in the Northwest and is highly sought by potential students desiring to graduate in high demand career field. At its completion, the new state of the art 8,800 sqft facility will replace a derelict postwar-era building providing an engaging atmosphere of flight simulation, classroom curriculum, improved collaboration spaces for students and faculty, and panoramic views of the surrounding Stuart mountain range.
The sky is the limit!
Managed by Construction Project Coordinator David Kopczynski , this $9,900,000 project is in design development with LMN Architects and slated for opening in fall of 2028.
Email Dave Kopczynski for more info
About Aviation Degree Expansion
To meet the growing demand for pilot serving the aviation industry, Central Washington University is expanding degree capabilities with the addition of a new Aviation Annex at Bowers Field airport in Ellensburg, WA.
The Aviation program at CWU balances classroom curriculum with flight simulation, and aircraft training to develop top graduates in the filed of aviation. Prior to this project, flight training facilities have been decentralized, with limited space at Bowers Field for faculty to student coordination and collaboration. The proposed facility will provide a better atmosphere that is similar to many modern small aviation training facilities with onsite parking, conferencing space, student collaboration space and pre-flight check area.
The new annex will continue the high demand enrollment of CWU's Aviation program and ensure quality student development with enhanced learning spaces.
The $9.9 million project, funded from a state appropriation, includes:
- Better site circulation and CWU brand presence at Bowers Field
- A high use 40 seat classroom
- Expanded flight instructors and faculty office spaces
- 3 new flight simulator spaces
- Ample space for conferencing, team meeting space, pre-flight, and dispatch activities.
The 8,800 sf facility will provide scenic views of the tarmac and the surrounding valley mountain range.
Construction began in spring 2027 and is expected to be completed by fall quarter 2028.
SEPA:
Project excluded from SEPA review based on Kittitas County pre-permit project review
Construction Project Coordinator: David Kopczynski,david.kopczynski@cwu.edu
CWU Project #: 17517 Aviation Degree Expansion
General Contractor: To be determined
Consultant Team:
Prime Architect: LMN Architects
Associate Architect: Corgan
Structural Engineer: KPFF
Mechanical Engineer: MW Engineering
Electrical Engineer: MW Engineering
Civil Engineer: CPL Engineering
Status: Final Design has begun.
Project Timeline:
- Kittitas County Pre-permt Review - July 2021
- Aviation Concept Design - November 2025 - February 2026
- Aviation Design - March 2026 - November 2026
- Aviation Construction Bid - March 2027
- Aviation Construction - April 2027 - July 2028
- Aviation Furnishings & Equipment - June 2028 - July 2028
- Aviation Completion - August 2028
Flight Training Center Press Release
Read more on the history, design, and plan for the new Aviation Annex.
https://www.cwu.edu/about/media-resCWU News
Work begins on new Flight Training Center Annex at Bowers Field
September 2, 2026 by David Leder
CWU executive assistant found her calling in higher education
August 31, 2026 by Rune Torgersen