NORFOLK, Va. (Dec. 11, 2023) — Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) and Norfolk Public Schools (NPS) announced their dual-credit program with a kickoff event at AIM’s Norfolk campus on December 6th. The event showcased an interactive tour of the campus and highlighted the long-standing collaboration between AIM and NPS. Norfolk Mayor and AIM Chancellor, Dr. Kenneth Alexander, shared his personal journey as a product of the Norfolk Public School System and how it shaped his success. Kenyetta Goshen, Senior Director of CTE & Adult Services, welcomed the attendees, and Josh Maxwell, Maintenance Recruiter from PSA Airlines, discussed the industry demand and potential career opportunities for students.
Starting in January 2024, NPS high school students can pursue post-secondary General aviation courses at AIM while simultaneously completing their high school diploma requirements. “A career as an aviation maintenance technician is financially rewarding,” said Joel English, AIM’s Executive Vice President, “and aviation technicians are highly sought after in the aerospace industry. We are thrilled that Norfolk Public Schools has partnered with us to design this career pathway to its students, so they can begin their aviation education while in high school.” AIM’s Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program prepares students for entry-level employment within the aviation maintenance industry. Students learn the specialized skills necessary to work on structures, powerplants, aircraft systems, flight-controlled systems, and engine systems, and become eligible and prepared for certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic.
During the event, students, faculty, and NPS Board members had the opportunity to run the engine of AIM’s Cessna 421 turboprop business airplane, tour the facilities, and engage in hands-on activities in the sheet metal shop. Under the guidance and supervision of current AIM students, the high school students learned about sheet metal and riveting purposes and were able to utilize power tools and table vices to measure, cut, drill, and rivet sheet metal, creating sheet metal airplane projects.
“This is such an exciting time for high school students to consider a future in aviation,” said Campus Executive Director, Ashley Oden. “Not only are the employment opportunities endless, but they also have the ability to get their training quickly and join the industry even faster in this wonderful pathway program Norfolk Public Schools has created.”
This collaboration between AIM and NPS signifies a commitment to providing students with valuable educational opportunities and preparing them for rewarding careers in the aviation maintenance industry.
