The aviation industry is definitely feeling the heat of staff shortages, may it be 'operations' , 'ground handling' or 'Aircraft maintenance' , and due to this, last couple of months saw numerous flight delays and cancellations, as the airlines are unable to utilize their complete fleet due to post pandemic staff shortages !
Aircraft maintenance is no different, acute shortage of aircraft mechanics is bothering airlines , after pilot shortages plagued the airline operations to a great extent in the United states of America and other places around the world.
Skywest woke up to the occasion, and collaborated with Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology (Spartan) , foreseeing the future demand of aircraft mechanics for it's bulky fleet 480 aircraft.
Today, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology (Spartan) and SkyWest Airlines (SkyWest) announced the launch of the SkyWest Aviation Maintenance Technician Pathway (Pathway).
This leading partnership provides a groundbreaking new Pathway for aspiring technicians to jump-start their training as commercial aviation Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) maintenance technicians.
With this partnership, Spartan students participating in the Pathway, qualify for elite access to SkyWest benefits, such as mentoring by experienced mechanics, enhanced company seniority, up to $4,500 in education assistance earned at credit hour benchmarks, and a final job interview after graduation.
“The Aviation Maintenance Technician Career Pathway provides practical training and a career pathway to help students prepare for their goal of careers in aviation,” said Rob Polston, Chief Executive Officer of Spartan College.
“We’re looking forward to helping students train for a premier airline in the regional industry.”
“Spartan is well-known for producing skilled aviation professionals and we are excited to partner with them to provide this groundbreaking new Pathway for aspiring SkyWest technicians,” said Bill Dykes, SkyWest SVP of Maintenance.
“Together with Spartan, we are providing a structured Pathway, as well as financial assistance, and many SkyWest benefits as students complete their education.”
Spartan’s Aviation Maintenance Technology programs offer practical training for those who want to work with their hands as well as their minds. Students learn skills essential to keeping aircraft in safe flying condition by servicing, repairing and overhauling aircraft components following stringent regulations set forth by the FAA. Polston adds,
“Spartan’s program emphasizes technology and safety for an industry that demands high standards from its professionals.”
This collaborative relationship between Spartan and SkyWest engages the student much earlier than traditional partnerships. It allows students to focus on their education and gain hands-on experience at Spartan while enjoying mentorship and other benefits from SkyWest.
This is the second Pathway launched between Spartan College and SkyWest Airlines this year, joining the SkyWest Pilot Career Pathway with education assistance and benefits for aspiring pilots.
Established in 1928, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology has trained over 100,000 pilots and technicians. Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology has campuses located in the following areas: Tulsa, OK; Los Angeles, CA; Inland Empire, CA; and Denver, CO. Spartan students have come from across the United States and over 40 countries.
Spartan offers programs in the areas of Aviation Flight, Aviation Maintenance Technology (Airframe & Powerplant), Aviation Electronics Technology, Nondestructive Testing Technology, and Quality Control Management, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Management. (Programs vary by location).
SkyWest Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW), partners with the world’s largest network carriers including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Headquartered in St. George, Utah, SkyWest Airlines fleet of more than 480 aircraft connects passengers to 246 destinations throughout North America.
