A First in the First State

Summit Aviation Inc.—a Greenwich AeroGroup company headquartered in Middletown, Delaware and a factory-authorized service center for Bell, Cessna, Raisbeck Engineering, and Sikorsky—has earned the distinction of being the first Delaware employer to register Apprenticeship Standards with the state’s Department of Labor, Division of Employment and Training, Office of Apprenticeship. In addition, Summit Aviation has successfully completed an Apprentice Agreement, thereby distinguishing the company as the first in Delaware to introduce the Aviation Maintenance Mechanic Registered Apprenticeship program.

The newly established apprenticeship program will provide hands-on training opportunities and professional development for aspiring aviation professionals. Summit Aviation’s efforts evince the company’s ambition to support a more empowered workforce comprising professionals born of real-time, real-world experience and a definitive career pathway.

Delaware Secretary of Labor Karryl Hubbard set forth: “Our foray into the aviation industry is another example of our Registered Apprenticeship program finding opportunities to place Delawareans … We know the aviation industry pays high wages for skilled workers. This innovation helps Delaware compete as we develop the next generation of aviation workers.”

Summit Aviation vice-president and general manager Ralph Kunz expressed his enthusiasm for and support of the initiative, stating: "We are thrilled to be leading the way in Delaware by offering the first Registered Apprenticeship program in aviation maintenance. This apprenticeship program will provide valuable career opportunities and professional development for individuals who are passionate about aviation and eager to contribute to this dynamic industry."

Summit Aviation's commitment to nurturing talent is underscored by the company’s appointment of Ms. Abigail Holloway, a recent graduate of Bohemia Manor High School, as its first Aircraft Maintenance Registered Apprentice. As part of the program, Ms. Holloway will attend the Polytech School of Aviation Maintenance where she will complete the Registered Related Technical Instruction (RTI) program—a comprehensive curriculum by which she will attain the knowledge and practical expertise essential to the aviation maintenance field. By dint of the program’s didactic and practical aspects, Ms. Holloway will develop, ostensibly, a solid foundation upon which to build a rewarding and lucrative career.

Mr. Kunz added: “Summit Aviation recognizes the importance of investing in the next generation of aviation professionals. By establishing this apprenticeship program, Summit aims to bridge the skills gap, foster career growth, and cultivate a highly skilled workforce in the aviation industry.”

FMI: https://summit-aviation.com