Inspiring Future Aviators

There’s a lot said these days about getting young people interested in aircraft maintenance. I myself have spoken and written about what at time seems to be youngsters' lack of interest in aircraft maintenance, or for that matter any of the trades.

Yesterday a group of high school students from the Westfield Technical Academy’s aviation maintenance technician program were provided a day of aviation inspiration and I got to be part of it. My first impression of these students was how professional and even grown up they looked in their school uniforms - a refreshing site. The day began with a guided tour at the New England Air Museum. This was actually the second time I visited this particular museum and it certainly was better than the first time.

The museum docent, a Pratt & Whitney retiree, provided a detailed explanation of numerous aircraft, engines, and really cool displays. Later we all gathered at the Bombardier Hartford Service Center for a tour of facility which was full of Bombardier business aircraft going through a variety of maintenance schemes.

During lunch I spoke to the students about career opportunities in maintenance, some of my aviation experiences, and a look into the future of what these young soon-to-be-A&Ps may expect as they begin their careers.

The Bombardier Hartford Service Center sponsored the event and regularly provides these types of events for the students in the Westfield Technical Academy maintenance program.

These types of industry and academia partnering programs have become popular and frankly much needed. Lee Boulanger, the general manager of the Bombardier Hartford Service Center, was noticeable proud of the program. Lee began her career as an A&P at this facility. More about Lee and her career at a later date.

My personal thanks to Bombardier for inviting me to participate in their support in inspiring the next generation of aircraft maintainers.

Ron