High School Students Learning Skills Useful In Aviation Careers

The first class has graduated from the Utah Aerospace Pathways program, supported by MCS Aerospace and SyberJet Aircraft.

A total of twelve students from the Iron County School District participated in the program and were present for the official graduation Wednesday in Cedar City, UT. The program is designed to help to fill high paying, innovative aerospace jobs in the southern Utah area for years to come.

A partnership with the state of Utah and industry, the Utah Aerospace Pathways program was initiated in April 2016 and prepares graduating high school students with the skills and knowledge for a rewarding, long-term career in aerospace manufacturing. This pilot project was created and endorsed by industry, government and education leaders for high school students in various school districts throughout Utah. Students who graduate from the program with a certificate in aerospace manufacturing will have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in basic manufacturing and will have completed specific classroom studies including Precision Sheet Metal Assembly, Manufacturing Principles, Tool Usage/Safety, Environmental Health, Precision Measuring Instruments, Organizational Awareness, Applied Math, and Aerospace Blueprint Reading.

During the graduation ceremony Chuck Taylor, President of SyberJet Aircraft explained why MSC is uniquely suited to be are partner in the Utah Aerospace Pathway program. “MSC provides a unique experience based learning opportunity for the students," Taylor said. "The students work hand in hand with experienced industry professionals and are exposed to all facets of aircraft manufacturing. They work with aircraft designers, fabricators, assemblers, quality inspectors, aircraft mechanics, and flight test personnel. They can even help roll a finished aircraft out of hangar. They are exposed to it all.”

“We are fortunate to be doing business in states with the focus and initiative to invest in educational programs that benefit both individuals and also local industries." said Whitney Clayton, CEO of MSC Aerospace. "MSC is committed to our local communities for the long term and looks forward to welcoming these graduates to our team."

“This program is a great example of industry, education and government working together to create a program that builds the talent pipeline for Utah’s growing Aerospace Industry," said State Workforce Development Board Chair and MSC Aerospace Human Resources Director Megen Ralphs. "These graduates are better prepared to enter the aerospace manufacturing job market and/or use this experience to enhance their post-secondary education goals."

(Image provided with SyberJet news release)

FMI: www.syberjet.com