Delta Partners with PIA to Help Increase the Number of Quality Aviation Maintenance Technicians
In order to combat the looming skills shortage facing the aviation industry, Delta Air Lines has partnered with the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) as a way to keep their technical jobs filled. Delta recently inspected a number of AMT training schools nationwide in an effort to find the education establishments that meet or exceed their high expectations.
Delta’s inaugural partnership includes 38 AMT schools across the country. PIA campuses proudly included in this partnership are Pittsburgh, PA, Hagerstown, MD, and Myrtle Beach, SC. PIA looks forward to Delta’s campus inspection in Youngstown, OH for potential partnership later this year.
Due to the combination of industry growth, increasing retirements, and the decline in students seeking an education in skilled trades, the demand for aviation maintenance technicians (AMT) has never been higher. PIA strives to provide successful career opportunities for graduates and this joint effort with Delta will continue to support the school’s mission.
“Our agreement with Delta shows the quality of our program at PIA and emphasizes the need for trained technicians. The partnership program is a great way to think outside the box to attract technicians to Delta Airlines,” Peg Skalican, Myrtle Beach Campus Director said.
In order for an aircraft to leave the ground, whether it is a blimp, helicopter, or fixed-wing aircraft, any maintenance must generally be signed off by a certified FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) technician. According to Boeing’s 2016 Pilot and Technician Outlook, over 118,000 newly hired A&P technicians are needed by 2035 in North America alone.
“As baby boomers are retiring, Delta and other companies recognize the need to have quality technicians in their pipeline. Although this partnership is in its infancy stages, the opportunity for PIA students to fast-track to Delta main line is fantastic,” Butch Adams, Hagerstown Campus Director said.
For over 85 years, PIA has taken pride in the quality of its education and the success of its graduates. Through this partnership PIA looks forward to continuing to train excellent aviation professionals for the aviation industry.
More details regarding this partnership will be coming soon.
