HISTORY
Indiana Aerospace University: A Legacy of Excellence Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) has a proud legacy of nurturing dreams and providing exceptional education to individuals passionate about aeronautics and other disciplines. Established through the visionary leadership of its President and Founder, Dr. Jovenal B. Toring, IAU has grown from an institution offering airline-related courses to a comprehensive academic establishment catering to diverse educational needs.
Founding Vision
In its early years, IAU focused exclusively on airline-related programs, attracting young men and women eager to pursue careers in aeronautics. At the time, only one other institution in Lapu-Lapu City offered similar courses. Despite numerous challenges, Dr. Toring demonstrated remarkable foresight and resilience, taking bold risks to turn these students’ aspirations into reality.
Acquiring technical facilities posed a significant challenge, yet Dr. Toring remained undeterred. Through unwavering commitment and perseverance, he overcame obstacles, ensuring that IAU became a beacon of hope for students striving for excellence in aviation and allied fields.
Expansion to Basic Education
As Lapu-Lapu City experienced industrial and population growth, the demand for quality basic education increased. IAU responded by opening its doors to Kindergarten and High School students. Initially, the school welcomed only a small number of pupils, but its reputation for excellence quickly attracted more enrollees.
A three-story building was constructed during the 1995-1996 academic year to accommodate the growing student body. The institution soon received Government Recognition, further solidifying its status as a trusted educational establishment.
Becoming Indiana Aerospace University
A significant milestone in IAU’s journey was its renaming Indiana Aerospace University, marking its continuous growth and commitment to academic excellence. By the 2000-2001 school year, IAU had relocated to a sprawling 15-hectare campus. At its heart stands the St. Therese Chapel, symbolizing the university’s dedication to nurturing its students’ intellect and spirit.
The chapel serves as a sanctuary where students and faculty unite in prayer, fostering a strong sense of community and moral responsibility. IAU inspires students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and intellectual discovery through this spiritual foundation.
Expansion of Flight Operations:
In 2007, IAU established its Base of Flight Operations in Ormoc City, Leyte. This facility functions as a central hub for the flight training of student pilots, as well as for the practical training of students in aircraft maintenance and avionics. The Base of Flight Operations offers valuable hands-on experience, preparing our graduates to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry with confidence and competence.
Introduction of the Senior High School Program
In response to the Department of Education’s K-12 curriculum, IAU launched its Senior High School program in 2016, offering specialized STEM strands in aviation-related fields. The program provides students with a strong academic foundation, preparing them for further studies or careers in the aerospace and aviation sectors. This initiative underscores IAU’s commitment to adapting to educational reforms and addressing the evolving needs of its students.
Advancements in Aerospace Engineering
In 2021, IAU’s Research and Development Team achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the successful launch of the Teresa 1 Rocket. This accomplishment reflects the university’s dedication to innovation and its vision for the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering program. The launch showcased the expertise of IAU’s students and faculty and reinforced its role as a leader in aerospace education and research.
Establishment of Ormoc Air
In 2022, Indiana Aerospace University confidently launched Ormoc Air, its own air charter service. As the first charter company in Eastern Visayas, IAU is proud to address the transportation needs of Ormoc and the surrounding provinces of Leyte and Samar. Ormoc Air not only provides a faster and more convenient mode of transportation to other Visayan provinces but also significantly enhances regional connectivity and accessibility.
Commitment to Excellence
IAU remains steadfast in its mission to provide an environment that fosters intellectual, emotional, and moral development. The university boasts a faculty of highly skilled educators deeply dedicated to their students’ success. Faculty members serve as mentors, advisors, and role models, continuously enhancing their expertise through graduate studies and professional development programs.
A Vision Beyond the Horizon
Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) is committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century by equipping its students to succeed in an increasingly complex global environment. Through a forward-thinking curriculum designed to adapt to the demands of a rapidly changing world, IAU prepares its graduates with the essential knowledge and skills to become innovative leaders and responsible citizens.
The university places a strong emphasis on community, fostering meaningful connections among students, faculty, administrators, alumni, families, and the broader society. These relationships support IAU’s mission to create a nurturing and transformative learning environment.
As Indiana Aerospace University continues to advance, it remains firmly dedicated to academic excellence, ethical integrity, and active community engagement. With a vision that looks beyond the present, IAU is committed to shaping the future of education and positively impacting the lives of its students.
We invite all to join us in this journey at Indiana Aerospace University, as we strive for excellence together.
