Bridging the Workforce Skills Gap: Aviation Training Programs in Pittsburgh High Schools

Some high schools in and around Pittsburgh are addressing the workforce skills gap by offering specialized training programs in the aviation and aeronautics industry. These initiatives aim to provide students with viable pathways to well-paying jobs and equip them with technical and critical thinking skills applicable in various fields, while also increasing diversity in aviation careers and addressing worker shortages.

One of these programs is the Aviation Academy at West Mifflin Area High School, which partners with the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) to offer students dual enrollment courses in aviation maintenance and electronics. Students can earn up to 18 college credits and prepare for the FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification Exams or the NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician Certification1. The program also exposes students to career opportunities in the aviation industry through field trips, guest speakers, and internships2.

Another program is the Aeronautics Academy at Pittsburgh Brashear High School, which offers students a STEM-focused curriculum that integrates aeronautics concepts and applications. Students can learn about topics such as aerodynamics, flight simulation, drone technology, and space exploration. The program also collaborates with local organizations such as the Allegheny County Airport Authority, the Civil Air Patrol, and the Air Force ROTC to provide students with hands-on experiences and mentorship3.

These programs are examples of how high schools are preparing students for the future of work by exposing them to high-demand fields and developing their skills and interests. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $66,680 in May 2020, while the median annual wage for avionics technicians was $66,4404. The aviation industry also faces a shortage of qualified workers due to retirements and low enrollment rates in technical programs. By offering aviation and aeronautics training programs, high schools are helping to fill this gap and create a more diverse and skilled workforce.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, bing.com, pia.edu