PIA and SkyWest Launch Hands-On Aviation Training Program

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – PIA School for Aviation Maintenance and SkyWest have announced a new partnership that will train students in Aviation Maintenance Technology.

The SkyWest AMT Pathway Program will allow students to jump-start aviation careers while they are still in school.

Representatives of SkyWest will visit PIA’s Youngstown campus at 1453 Youngstown Kingsville Road NE, Vienna, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 7 to discuss details of the partnership with students.

In addition to mentorship, hands-on experience and a direct pathway to a career in commercial aviation, students in the program may receive up to $7,600 in financial aid, including up to $4,500 in education assistance, up to $1,600 in A&P test fee reimbursements and up to $1,500 in moving expense reimbursements, plus mileage.

Students will also be ensured a final interview to become an A&P mechanic at SkyWest where they also may receive enhanced SkyWest seniority for benefits such as health insurance, profit-sharing programs and travel.

Eligible candidates must be attending PIA Youngstown and be in good standing. The program allows students to remain at PIA to complete their training until they are able to gain their A&P license.

According to a news release, Boeing’s 2022-2041 Pilot and Technician Outlook said 134,000 new mechanics and avionics professionals will need to join the field over the next 20 years to meet the growing needs of the aviation industry.

“Due to high demand for new AMTs, forward-thinking employers like SkyWest are no longer waiting for candidates to come to them. Instead, they are creating high-value educator-employer partnerships like the AMT Pathway Program to actively invest in and support talented students with a direct route to entry-level employment,” said Suzanne Markle, president and CEO of PIA.

“We are excited to be partnering with PIA and to provide more opportunities for their AMT students to get started with their aviation careers,” said Joe Sigg, SkyWest VP of Maintenance. “Plus, the benefits of the SkyWest AMT Pathway Program, including the financial support, make it easier for students to enter this important career field.”

More information about the program is available HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.