Textron Aviation has announced that its Maintenance and Paint Apprenticeship programs have officially been recognized as state-registered apprenticeships through the Kansas Department of Commerce. The two-year programs support the company’s long-term strategic workforce plan and offer prospective and current employees opportunities to try new fields, learn new skills and stretch their abilities to build a lasting career.
“Textron Aviation has long been committed to building educational and community collaborations that benefit our employees, company, region and the State of Kansas, particularly in developing a skilled workforce that maintains our advantage in a competitive, global market,” said Maggie Topping, senior vice president, Human Resources and Communications. “These apprenticeships are another way we provide employees a solid foundation for success and ongoing support throughout their careers. Participants not only gain valuable education and training, but also receive a salary and benefits while they learn.”
As employees, program participants receive benefits and pay during on-the-job and classroom training. In a typical week, employees divide their time attending training at WSU Tech and working with assigned mentors at Textron Aviation production facilities. The company also pays for all program-related tuition and fees.
The programs are a collaboration between Textron Aviation, the State of Kansas, WSU Tech and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) to help address long-term production and workforce needs and reinforce Wichita’s status as a global aerospace hub.
The company continues to grow and enhance its collaborative earn and learn opportunities, including Airframe & Powerplant (A&P), Avionics, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining and Tooling programs.
