Bombardier said it has collaborated with Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) to develop an apprenticeship program for training future airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics.
Under the paid two-year program, students will receive hands-on instruction at Bombardier Group’s site in Wichita, Kansas, and classroom training at WSU Tech. In this setting they will work with seasoned instructors and senior maintenance experts while becoming familiar with Bombardier’s aircraft fleet.
The company said the state-registered A&P apprenticeship program is the first of its kind in Kansas. Students completing the program will receive FAA A&P certification in addition to significant on-the-job training. They also will be given upgrades in their job classifications from apprentices to full-time A&P technicians. For Bombardier, the program strengthens the company’s staff of mechanics and its ability to provide timely maintenance services.
“We are pleased to deepen our roots in Wichita and the U.S. through the launch of this foundational program in collaboration with WSU Tech, a leader in aviation mechanic training in Wichita,” said Paul Sislian, executive vice president of Bombardier aftermarket services and strategy. “The start of this apprenticeship program highlights Bombardier Group’s ongoing commitment to not only expanding its footprint in Wichita, but to training, hiring, and retaining qualified professionals, which will further increase our ability to provide exceptional customer service to our clients.”
Bombardier said the collaboration with WSU Tech is part of a strategy that included expanding its worldwide network of service facilities. Training and hiring more skilled technicians aids the company’s effort to develop its aerospace operations.
“WSU Tech is excited to join with Bombardier to provide our students with an extraordinary learning opportunity at their state-of-the-art facility in Wichita,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, president of WSU Tech and vice president of its workforce development. “This collaboration demonstrates the power of uniting education, government, business, and industry, resulting in success.”
