History – 1988
North Central Institute (NCI) was founded by Dr. John McCurdy in Clarksville, Tennessee in 1988. NCI is a privately-owned institution located directly across from Gate 1 of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Dr. McCurdy retired from the US Army after 27 years of loyal service to his country including two tours in Vietnam. During that time, he earned 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 3 Bronze Star Medals, 32 Air Medals, one with Valor device, and many more meritorious recognitions throughout his tour of duty. He earned his Doctorate of Education from Toledo University.
Dr. McCurdy applied his talents and knowledge to the establishment of an institution dedicated to helping members of the Fort Campbell and Clarksville communities to pursue higher education and professional goals. Dr. McCurdy established scholarships, promoted sportsmanship throughout the community, donated to and volunteered for local charities and events. He forged paths of excellence and success for private post-secondary schools in Tennessee and encouraged others to participate and continue the spirit of involvement and improvement for our local schools and businesses. The impact of such an influential figure in our community is immeasurable. Dr. McCurdy’s actions resonate throughout the world, as each NCI graduate pursues a career in aviation maintenance.
Community – 2014
In 2014, Dr. McCurdy enlisted his daughter, Tamela McCurdy Taliento, as Co-owner to oversee the daily operations. Since Tamela had been engaged in the institute operation from its inception, she was prepared to embrace her new leadership role. Together, they applied their knowledge and talent to establish an institution dedicated to helping members of the Fort Campbell and Clarksville communities pursue higher education and professional goals.
The McCurdys established scholarships, promoted sportsmanship throughout the community, and donated to and volunteered for local charities and events. They forged paths of excellence and success for private post-secondary schools in Tennessee and encouraged others to participate and continue the spirit of involvement and improvement for our local schools and businesses. The impact of such influential figures in our community is immeasurable. Their actions resonate throughout the world, as each NCI graduate pursues a career in aviation maintenance.
Legacy – 2023
Continuing a Legacy, Forging the Future of Aviation
In the summer of 2023, the McCurdy family entrusted SkyWarrior Aviation Academy, a Tennessee-based veteran-owned LLC, with the acquisition of North Central Institute (NCI)—a pivotal moment in continuing the legacy of founder Dr. John McCurdy. With over 35 years of experience in post-secondary education and aviation training, SkyWarrior Aviation Academy (SAA) is committed to preparing the next generation of aviation professionals through inclusive, high-impact pathways.
Under the leadership of Lamar Haynes, Managing Member and CEO, and Tamela Taliento, President and COO, NCI remains a veteran-friendly institution dedicated to supporting servicemembers as they transition to civilian careers. The majority of NCI’s team members are veterans or part of veteran families, reflecting our deep-rooted commitment to service and community.
NCI’s strategic partnerships—including SkyWarrior Flight Training in Pensacola, CAE-USA, Delta Tech Ops, and others—provide students with direct access to industry-leading opportunities. Our graduates play a vital role in global aviation safety, maintaining aircraft that transport millions of passengers across the world.
As we look ahead, NCI continues to train women and men to think critically, grow professionally, and shape the future of air travel.