Story ID: 
Yingling Debuts Maintenance Apprenticeship Program
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: Program will help Yingling keep up with growth
Word Count: 232
Yingling Aviation has rolled out an Airframe & Powerplant mechanic apprenticeship program as it continues to expand and eyes long-term growth of the aviation industry. The Wichita-based MRO celebrated the debut of the program earlier this month at its facilities in Wichita with a ceremony that included its inaugural class, Yingling staff, aviation influencers, and government officials.
The nearly 80-year-old company has been hiring workers amid a period of rapid growth with additional hangars, aircraft capabilities, and services. Aimed at developing skilled technicians, the apprenticeship is providing hands-on training and mentorship to further the MRO’s goals of prioritizing education and the success of the next generation of mechanics, the company said.
“Our industry thrives on talent, and this program is about building a strong pipeline of aviation professionals who will keep Wichita at the forefront as the air capital of the world,” said COO Rodger Renaud. “We are proud to offer a program that not only supports our company’s growth but also invests in the future of our community.”
Yingling training manager Amy Preskitt spearheaded the program’s development to invest in both technical skills and personal development, Yingling said. The program emphasizes that its employees are the foundation of its success, the MRO said, adding that CEO Bob Rasberry often notes, “Without our people, we are just a bunch of hangars.”