SALINA — Thomas Karcz, assistant professor of aviation at Kansas State University Salina, has earned his Master Certificated Flight Instructor accreditation.

Karcz is one of only 22 master certified flight instructors in Kansas.

K-State has eight faculty members who have earned this top designation. Along with Karcz, they are Kurt Barnhart, professor and head of the department of aviation; William “Bill” Gross, chief pilot and professor of aviation; Bernard King, associate professor of aviation; Troy Brockway, associate professor of aviation; Eric Shappee, associate professor of aviation; Lowell Hinchee, instructor of aviation; and Andrew Smith, assistant professor of aviation and the aviation maintenance training program lead.

The national accreditation is recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration. Fewer than 700 of the approximately 93,000 certified flight instructors in the nation have achieved the master distinction. The designation must be renewed biennially and surpasses the FAA’s requirements for renewal of the candidate’s flight instructor certificate.

Karcz is a Society of Aviation Flight Educators member and specializes in progress checks as well as certified flight instructor and multi engine airplane training.