11 March 2020: Textron Aviation, WSU Tech and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) have come together to set up a first of its kind two-year apprenticeship program to provide students factory and classroom training. This program will not only address long-term production and tooling requirements for the company’s aircraft programs but also help further Wichita’s status as one of the world’s major aerospace clusters.
This program will help cultivate skills needed to help design, build and maintain production tooling, which covers everything from specialized hand-held tools to large jig assemblies supporting aircraft parts and assemblies. As Textron Aviation employees, program participants will not only earn a full-time salary and benefits, but the company will also cover related tuition and fees at WSU Tech.
“Textron Aviation has long been committed to building educational and community partnerships that benefit both the company and the region, particularly in developing a well-paid, skilled workforce that maintains our advantage in a very competitive, global market,” said Maggie Topping, senior vice president of HR and Communications at Textron Aviation. “Through the new apprenticeship program with WSU Tech, our students will get the benefit of an advanced curriculum designed specifically for this program, as well as learn on the job from our highly skilled tradespeople.”
“WSU Tech is nationally known for aerospace education programs that offer hands-on training in our own campus facilities and through partnerships like we have with Textron Aviation,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, president, WSU Tech. “We are so proud of our role as the premier training partner for the Wichita aerospace cluster, still an aviation export leader for the U.S.”