The program has prepared the students for certification by the Federal Aviation Administration and for entry-level positions in the aviation industry as A&P technicians. The training is rigorous. Students attend thirty hours a week of instruction for 20 months, without a break. The students’ hands-on training uses helicopters, private aircraft and commercial and military jets. FAA certification comes to the students only after passing written and oral tests, and a demonstration of practical application. They are then certified to work on the “skins” or body of aircraft, as well as the engines and turbines.

The Aviation Center of Excellence, which opened in January 2002, was created in response to regional and statewide industry needs. Aviation Center Director J. B. Renninger will address the graduates. For more information call 904.997.2801.