About MICEP
Recognizing excellence in aviation education since 1997
The Master Instructor Continuing Education Program™ offers a national accreditation for aviation educators, based on advanced professional standards and rigorous peer review.
A small group with an outsized impact
Some 650 aviation educators in 49 states and seven countries have earned more than 1,400 designations since 1997. At any given time, current Masters make up less than half of one percent of all certificated flight instructors — yet this small group is remarkably overrepresented in work product, FAASTeam participation and, ultimately, its impact on safety.
MICEP is open to all aviation educators, regardless of organizational affiliation, and is today part of the Society of Aviation & Flight Educators (SAFE).
This Program singles out the best that the right seat has to offer.
Marion Blakey, former FAA Administrator
A brief history
From an idea in Colorado to a national standard
1995
The idea takes shape
Flight instructors Sandy and JoAnn Hill of Longmont, Colorado, conceive the Master Instructor Continuing Education Program.
1997
The FAA introduces MICEP
After two years of research, development and vetting, the FAA formally introduces the program. FAA Administrator Barry Valentine praises the Hills for a program that would “enhance the abilities of dedicated instructors everywhere.”
2007–08
Continued FAA recognition
FAA Administrator Marion Blakey (2007) and Acting Administrator Robert Sturgell (2008) publicly praise the program.
2009
Master Instructors is formed
The Hills form Master Instructors to give MICEP greater autonomy while keeping the designation process impartial.
Today
Part of SAFE
MICEP is part of the Society of Aviation & Flight Educators. Sandy Hill passed away in 2020; JoAnn Hill continues to consult for the program.
The founders
Sandy and JoAnn Hill
In 1996, JoAnn along with her husband Sandy, created the Master Instructor program. It was announced at AirVenture 1997. The basic program for CFI’s grew into the Master Instructor Continuing Education Program (MICEP). She and Sandy administered the program until 2021. She is a founding member of SAFE and is delighted that SAFE took MICEP under its umbrella.
.
Who runs and reviews the program today.
Inside the Master Instructor Community →
Meet these exceptional aviation educators in the Find a Master directory.
Trademarks, policies and terms.
Ready to join them?
Apply for accreditation, or find a Master Instructor near you.