Pathways to Aviation has charted a new course in 2016 for the future of the aviation and aerospace industry in Nevada. The organization is working to develop education curriculum for all schools and to empower a new generation of aviation industry workforce, experts and leaders by filling aviation industry jobs with quality Nevada labor.
Pathways to Aviation, formerly known as the Reno Air Racing Foundation, is inviting all business leaders, government officials, commercial Realtors, aviation industry executives and members of the community to the Aviation Industry Future Forecast Forum Friday, Sept. 16, 9-10 a.m. The forum will take place in the Aviation Learning Center Career and Industry tent located on the flight tarmac to the right of the Main Grandstands at the Reno-Stead airport.
“We hope to attract aviation related industry companies to relocate to Nevada and we want to serve as the voice and source of all aviation in Nevada.” Eric Henry, president of the board of directors for Pathways to Aviation, said in a press release. “The aviation industry is looking for a professional workforce in our state and we intend to chart a course for kids grade six through college and develop a workforce to meet the demands of the aviation industry in Nevada.”
According to the FAA, Nevada is home to 30 public-use airports which support over 70,000 jobs and over $80 million in payroll with over 3000 active general aviation aircraft and 6000 pilots. There are 5 commercial airports with over $8,000,000 payroll and a total economic impact of over $27 billion. Civil aviation contributes to 12.1 percent of the state’s GDP and 14.1 percent of all jobs in the state.
The aviation industry is made up of airline operations, airport operations, component and aircraft engine and parts manufacturing, maintenance and parts suppliers.
The aviation industry needs a skilled labor force, especially well-trained and certified personnel. The workforce shortage of pilots and mechanics is becoming severe. Expected growth in tourism and corporate travel will force a need for more employees and higher quality of personnel throughout the aviation industry.
Nevada as a flight test state for drones is driving the industry to new levels, regulations, certifications, and leadership. The average age of aircraft owners continues to rise and a need for the younger generation to become involved.
“We will be sourcing funds and awarding scholarships to students attending four-year, two-year, and specialty instruction. We will be pursuing aviation, flight, avionics, technology, airframe and aerospace education in every school in Nevada”, Pete Parker, executive director of Pathways to Aviation, said in a press release.
The Career and Industry tent activities at the Reno Air Races will feature aviation businesses; universities with displays and information; the opportunity to engage aviation educators and executives with future aviation specialists of all ages.
In addition, the tent will host college and career discussions and workshops; conduct aviation career workshops; feature high schools that offer aviation-related programs; feature colleges that offer aviation related courses and degrees; feature businesses that offer job shadowing, internship, part-time, and full-time opportunities; and foster networking amongst aviation leaders.
