MetroTech aviation students help fill Oklahoma's workforce gap

Metro Tech aviation students help fill Oklahoma’s workforce gap
Aviation students receive FAA certifications through Metro Tech

OKLAHOMA CITY – The aviation industry will gain 14 new aircraft maintenance technicians on April 8; helping fill a gap in the workforce. Recognition of the graduates is scheduled for 1 p.m. on April 8 at Metro Tech’s Aviation Campus location at 5600 S. MacArthur Blvd. in Oklahoma City.

Metro Tech students graduate twice annually from its aviation programs. However, the pandemic caused the program to pause. Once the program began again, it was able to combine lectures on Zoom while tests, quizzes, projects and lab skills were performed in-person utilizing safe distancing, masks and rigorous cleaning.

The need for skilled workers in the aviation industry has been on the rise for many years. Great jobs in aviation are achievable with dedication and hard work. Metro Tech’s Aviation Campus Director Michael Branch said, “Training must be completed before individuals can take the FAA written exam. Being Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certified is desired by many employers. This preparation provides the individual with a competitive edge over their counterparts. Metro Tech is able to provide those exams on campus,” said Branch.   

Superintendent and CEO, Aaron Collins said, “Metro Tech has an outstanding Aviation programs with industry professionals teaching the courses. Our partnerships in the aviation industry are important for a thriving workforce.”

Tinker Airforce Base – one of the largest aviation employers in Oklahoma – has an immediate need for A & P technicians. Many graduates of the program are gainfully employed at AAR and Tinker Airforce Base among other smaller companies in the Oklahoma area.

Since 1988, Metro Tech has been one of the Top 10 schools in the nation training for A & P certifications according to the FAA Norms, said Branch.

The 2018 Economic Impact Study provide by the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission stated that employment in aviation contributed in three areas: 74,002 individuals are employed by commercial airlines and airports; 58,958 individuals are employed by aviation businesses and 72,648 are employed by the military.

Boeing’s 2020 Pilot and Technician Outlook Report projects 739,000 technicians will be needed to maintain the global fleet over the next 20 years. In Oklahoma, that means 5,586 aviation jobs were needed in 2020 increasing slightly for 2021 said the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

Metro Tech’s Aviation Maintenance Technician program is open to high school students and adults. Other programs available for adults are Aerospace Electronics, Aircraft Sheet Metal Structure, Manufacturing, Fabrication & Repair, Drone Pilot Test Prep, and Drone Safety & Flight Practice. For more information about the programs call 405-595-4678.

About Metro Tech

One of the largest technology centers in Oklahoma, Metro Tech has four campuses offering short-term, career and customized business training. Campuses are located in South Oklahoma City, Northeast Oklahoma City, the Will Rogers Airport and Downtown Oklahoma City. www.metrotech.edu