Wichita airframer Textron Aviation has launched a numeric controls (NC) technician apprenticeship program, following the successful launch last year of its tooling apprenticeship program. Candidates who are accepted into the NC technician program will be Textron Aviation employees with benefits and salaries.
They will receive a combination of factory and classroom training, with the latter to be offered at WSU Tech. Tuition and fees for the WSU Tech portion of the program will also be paid for by the company. There are 10 apprenticeship positions open at Textron Aviation's Wichita plants, according to a spokeswoman.
Apprentice NC technicians will learn to perform routine maintenance and repairs on advanced production machinery and electronic systems working with assigned mentors at Textron Aviation production facilities. They will use a variety of test equipment and troubleshooting tools such as infrared cameras, ultrasonic detection, control software, dial indicators, and voltmeters.
A collaboration between the company, WSU Tech, and the machinist’s union, the program addresses long-term production and operations needs for Textron Aviation’s aircraft programs. “This program further cements our dedication to educational and community partnerships that benefit the company and the region,” said Maggie Topping, Textron Aviation senior v-p of human resources and communications.