Southeast Missouri State University students gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge aviation technology, training alongside professionals in the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Portable Reduced Oxygen Training Enclosure (PROTE). This unique opportunity provided by the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI), underscores SEMO’s commitment to connecting students with real-world learning environments that prepare them for successful careers in aviation and beyond.
“We are beyond excited that the SEMO Professional Pilot Program is able to open doors for our students, providing unparalleled opportunities through the FAA PROTE Chamber,” said Miranda Sullivan, director of aviation operations at SEMO.
The PROTE is a traveling altitude chamber capable of producing hypoxic environments at ground level by reducing oxygen in the environment for the purpose of training aviation professionals.
One of the common symptoms experienced in a hypoxic environment is a reduction of cognitive function. Students are given math problems and puzzles to solve while in the chamber and are instructed to take note of their symptoms since low oxygen can affect people differently. These exercises help students identify their individual symptoms. Learning how hypoxia effects them in a PROTE chamber allows pilots and students to identify if they are low on oxygen while flying. This is one example of the many hands-on training experiences with state-of-the-art technology available to SEMO’s aviation students.
“The aviation program has a new full-motion jet simulator, along with other flight simulators set up on campus. We are extremely proud of our students and the progress they are all making with their flight training,” said Sullivan.
SEMO’s aviation program is dedicated to providing experiential learning opportunities that allow students to gain practical skills early in their education. By incorporating resources like the FAA’s PROTE, SEMO ensures that students experience real-world conditions in a safe, controlled environment. These practical learning experiences are designed to build both technical skills and confidence, preparing students for the demands of professional aviation and giving them a competitive edge as they advance in their careers.
Sullivan said, “With hands-on experiences and engaging activities designed to foster growth and confidence, students gain the skills and connections they need to soar in their aviation careers.”