Textron Aviation Apprenticeships Reach High Schoolers

Textron Aviation is offering paid apprenticeships in airframe and powerplant (A&P), avionics, and engine buildup to high school students starting at age 16. The manufacturer said it is the first aviation company in Kansas to offer state-registered youth apprenticeships through the Kansas Office of Apprenticeships.

Apprentices pair classroom instruction with structured on-the-job training at Textron facilities. On completion, participants earn a credential through the Kansas Office of Apprenticeships, and A&P apprentices earn airframe and powerplant certification.

Textron is working with WSU Tech in Wichita on the A&P and avionics programs. Engine buildup is offered in collaboration with Tri County Tech, which is based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and that apprenticeship is based in Independence, Kansas. The first cohorts have started, and the programs run up to three years.

“The youth apprenticeship program is about opening the door earlier for students who can see themselves building a future in aviation,” said Textron Aviation senior v-p of human resources and communications Maggie Topping. WSU Tech president Sheree Utash added, “Students are gaining real skills, earning while they learn, and building a direct path into high-demand aviation careers.”

Collaborators include Wichita Public Schools, Haysville Public Schools, Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School, Dewey High School in Oklahoma, and Tri County Tech.