LCC is set to host its 2018 Aviation Technology program graduation 6 p.m. Wednesday, August 1, at the Aviation Technology Center, 661 Aviation Drive in Mason, Michigan.
This year’s class has 28 graduates, including three female students who will now have careers in the lucrative field of aviation maintenance. Placement for students who complete this program and their subsequent FAA licensure is 100%. Employers include airline, aviation-related manufacturers, and major aircraft repair facilities.
“Our graduating students are justifiably proud of their accomplishments and are excited about the multiple employment opportunities that currently exist for highly capable, technically competent aviation maintenance technicians,” said Mark Bathurst, director, Aviation Maintenance Technology program. He went on to say, “After two years of rigorous study, our graduates have achieved the skills employers require to become productive members of the aviation maintenance workforce. Our partnership with Delta Airlines places us as one of the top schools in the nation, and our graduates appreciate the advantages they have received from our partnership with Delta.”
It was July 2017, when Delta Air Lines announced it had chosen LCC as one of 43 Aircraft Maintenance schools, and the only community college in Michigan to be part of a new partnership established by the airline. Delta Air Lines selected LCC based on over 100 criteria including equipment and facilities, level of hands-on-training, and quality of teaching. This partnership has continued to broaden access for LCC graduates to become the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals.
Students graduating from the program leave with hands-on experience developed using cutting edge technology. Many of those graduating on August 1, have already had interviews with prospective employers. Job offers are contingent upon FAA licensure as Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanics, and starting salaries range from the mid $40,000 to $50,000 range.
Jacob McDuffey, and Joe Stephens both graduated from the program in 2017, and were hired almost immediately into great careers. McDuffey is working for General Electric Engines in Lafayette, Ind., making large engines for commercial passenger airplanes, and Stephens is working for West Star Aviation in Grand Junction, Colo., where he repairs corporate aircraft’s. Both agree the training they received at LCC was “exceptional” and they would recommend the program to others. Success stories like these are the normal and frequent occurrence, and not the exception.
To learn more about the Aviation Maintenance Technology program and upcoming registration deadlines visit Aviation Technology Program [lcc.edu].
