Southern California Logistics Airport School of Aviation Graduates Become Fully Certified A&P Aircraft Mechanics
VICTORVILLE, Calif. — A class of 43 is the first graduating class from the Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA) School of Aviation, with full certification in general aviation mechanics, and the more comprehensive power plant and airframe mechanical training. The graduation takes place on January 19, 2011, 7:00 p.m., at Victor Valley Community College Performing Arts Center. John Hardell, President, SCLA School of Aviation, will be officiating the ceremony.
The SCLA School of Aviation was formed in 2006 with the intent of educating Victor Valley residents in aircraft mechanics, making them ready for employment as jobs become available with companies located at SCLA. With this graduating class, nearly 50% are either already employed or will soon be employed by SCLA companies. Other graduates have found employment at other area airports or aviation companies, including Lockheed and the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Barstow. Only eight graduates are still being placed by the School, as part of the service offered is assistance with job placement. “We are very proud of being able to educate a workforce, providing quality job opportunities for our residents, leading to a better quality of life while also improving the economic condition of the Victor Valley,” said Keith Metzler, director of economic development and SCLA.
The school provides Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified courses. Upon certification, graduates are qualified to perform service or make repairs on all types and sizes of private and commercial aircraft. The school is funded by the State of California, the County of San Bernardino, the City of Victorville and private investors. Earning potential by graduates ranges from $40,000 to $100,000 annually.
About Victorville
Located in the Victor Valley/High Desert region of Southern California, just 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Victorville is an emerging commercial hub that benefits from its pro-business philosophy and central location that offers businesses access to major U.S. markets. It also provides global access through the all-commercial Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA), home to a 15,000 foot runway, MRO operations and the SCLA School of Aviation. Sixty percent of all goods moving into and out of California travel through the Victor Valley/Southern California transportation corridor.
Victorville is one of the few remaining low-cost areas for businesses and residents in Southern California and also is one of the last places in Southern California with large lots of land available for development. Food processing and distribution, logistics, and aviation industries have found particular success in Victorville. Additionally, businesses can draw from more than 300,000 qualified workers throughout the region.
Dr Pepper Snapple Group is among one of the large corporations that has recently selected Victorville to relocate and expand. Other major companies that have moved to the area include: Boeing; GE Transportation; Pratt & Whitney; Goodyear Tire & Rubber; and ConAgra Foods. For more information, visit www.victorvillecity.com.