Educational Materials Developed For Students, Workers, Veterans

Air Washington, a consortium of 11 of the Washington State's community and technical colleges, spearheaded a strategy in 2011 to educate Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanic students, incumbent workers, and veterans on how they can develop a global skill set and increase their marketability, career options and pay.

Through educational materials, including a video, brochure and FAQ Flyer, Air Washington explains how these A&P mechanics, students and veterans can pursue dual licensing as an FAA mechanic and EASA aircraft maintenance engineer. These educational materials and an outline of the application process are available through the Center of Excellence for Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing (COE), a partner of Air Washington.

In 2011, Air Washington received a $20 million Department of Labor grant to strengthen Washington State's aerospace industry through workforce training in advanced manufacturing/composites, electronics/avionics, aircraft assembly, and aircraft maintenance. The goal of the Air Washington project is to prepare 2,615 individuals by fall 2014 to enter Washington State's aerospace workforce and secure Washington as the world leader in aerospace training and education.

ir Washington identified a portion of this grant funding to create awareness of EASA certification for A&P mechanics and others interested in the industry through the development and distribution of these educational materials. The FAA is the national aviation authority of the United States. EASA is the European Union equivalent of the FAA. EASA promotes standards of safety and environmental protection in the aviation industry for 27 member countries across Europe.

These educational materials outline what EASA is, the benefits of obtaining EASA licensing in addition to FAA certification and what pathway to pursue to become EASA licensed based on their current status:

Students currently enrolled in an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Training Program A&P certified mechanic and currently working in the aviation industry Veterans with prior military aviation experience.

FMI: www.airwashington.org, www.coeaerospace.com/easa-certification