Western Maricopa Education Center is using National Aviation Day to highlight its Aviation Maintenance Technology program, where students are training for careers that keep aircraft safe and operational.
The holiday, established in 1939 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, honors the Wright family’s contributions to flight and raises awareness of aviation’s role in society. For West-MEC, a public school district that provides career and technical education across 48 high schools in the West Valley, it offered a chance to show how students are preparing for the industry.
Jay McDowell, the program’s lead instructor and a retired Air Force veteran, described the training as one of West-MEC’s most rigorous.
“We’re the only ones that require four and a half hours a day,” he said.
The curriculum is split into two years, beginning with foundational knowledge before moving to hands-on work.
“They go through the general classes, which are a lot like core classes for a college degree,” said McDowell. “Math, physics, the regulations and all that, which is a lot of what we do, paperwork ... and teaching the kids the basics to get down here on the floor.”
The program ends with students testing for Federal Aviation Administration certification, which is conducted on site. McDowell said the certification, once earned, is valid for life and can open doors with airlines, manufacturers, repair stations and cargo operators.
He said the program’s strength lies in both its opportunities and the growth he sees in students.
“There’s no better feeling to watch a student go from eyes wide open ... to actually watch the light going on in their head,” McDowell said. “I get to watch them not only get it, but enjoy it. It’s a great thing to be a part of.”
Students said the program has provided both community and career direction.
“I’ve been talking to instructors about where they worked and how they’ve liked it in the Air Force or just in the airlines, and it all sounds so exciting, so I’m just waiting for my opportunity,” said Justus Coleman, a homeschooled student. “It’s such a fun job. I like working with my hands, and it’s working on planes. I think it’s a lot more detailed than working on cars.”
Coleman said the first day focused on bookwork and math, but he quickly found a supportive group of peers.
“Everyone’s still here that you can tell really wants to stay,” he said. “They kind of build you up instead of tearing you down.”
Keidence Whitcomb, a Willow Canyon High School student in her second year, said the program has been demanding but rewarding.
“It’s a difficult program,” Whitcomb said. “You’ve got to understand that this is a fast thing. You’re getting a certificate, so you have to do it in order to graduate.”
Jacob Jensen, another homeschooled student, said his father’s career in aviation inspired him to enroll.
“I really like when we actually get down on the floor and start doing stuff,” said Jensen.”It’s just awesome being around the aircrafts.”
McDowell said there are vast career opportunities available to graduates, from working for major airlines like American or Southwest to general aviation, cargo companies like UPS and manufacturers like SpaceX.
“The opportunities are endless,” McDowell said. “I get to pass down a passion for aviation, through my passion for the students.”
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