ATEC 2026 Annual Conference Agenda Released: Choose Aerospace Pathways Featured Across the Program12/22/2025 ATEC has released the official agenda for the 2026 ATEC Annual Conference, scheduled for March 29–April 1 in Portland and sponsored by Alaska Air Group. The newly published program highlights the critical role of pre-certification and secondary aviation programs, with multiple sessions designed to support Choose Aerospace partners as essential contributors to the aviation maintenance workforce pipeline.
Breakout sessions will be published as speakers are confirmed, with several sessions pertinent to Choose Aerospace programs, including:
In addition to these sessions, ATEC 2026 features leadership keynotes, workforce pipeline discussions, and breakout tracks spanning administration, instruction, regulation, and pathways. Choose Aerospace partners are encouraged to review the agenda and consider attending ATEC 2026 to connect with educators, industry leaders, and policymakers shaping the future of aviation maintenance education.
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Choose Aerospace and the SkillPointe Foundation today announced the launch of the Choose Aerospace SkillPointe Scholarship, a new program providing $50,000 in financial assistance to aspiring aviation maintenance technicians. Funded through generous contributions from the aviation maintenance community, the scholarship aims to reduce financial barriers for students pursuing FAA mechanic certification and to strengthen the pipeline of talent entering the industry.
The Choose Aerospace SkillPointe Scholarship supports individuals who are planning to attend or are currently enrolled in aviation technical post-secondary programs. Awards of $2,500 will be applied directly toward tuition and are supported by contributions from Aeronautical Repair Station Association, Alaska Airlines, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Aviation Supplies & Academics, Aviation Workforce Solutions, Republic Airways, Trades Workforce Foundation, and US Aviation Academy. In addition to these cash awards, community partners have provided more than $30k in in-kind support, including textbooks, tools, training materials, and certification exam fee vouchers. Organizations interested in supporting this initiative are encouraged to contact Choose Aerospace to learn more about contributing to the scholarship program. As part of this partnership, applicants and awardees will gain not only financial assistance but also access to an expanding network of employers and training providers actively seeking aviation maintenance students and professionals. “This scholarship builds a direct workforce pipeline between training providers and the employers who urgently need aviation maintenance talent,” said Ryan Goertzen, President of Choose Aerospace and Vice President of Workforce Development at AAR. “Through our partnership with the SkillPointe Foundation, we’re expanding access to aviation maintenance technician pathways for students while supporting the workforce strategies of airlines, MROs, and aviation employers across the country.” The SkillPointe Foundation—widely recognized for its leadership in expanding access to high-demand skills training—has awarded more than 2,000 vocational scholarships nationwide. Its mission aligns closely with Choose Aerospace’s commitment to creating accessible, attainable pathways into aviation careers. By providing meaningful student funding, the two organizations aim to further break down barriers that can prevent individuals from pursuing technical training. “Aviation keeps America moving, and skilled technicians keep aircraft flying,” said Alvin Townley, Founding CEO of SkillPointe Foundation. “We are proud to partner with our fellow non-profit, Choose Aerospace, to unlock student potential and build talent pipelines for this vital industry. SkillPointe Scholarship partnerships like this truly matter because 75% of our recipients say they would have struggled—or been entirely unable—to complete training without financial support.” The aviation maintenance sector continues to face a nationwide shortage of qualified professionals. By focusing on students and providing direct financial support, the new scholarship initiative strengthens the workforce pipeline at its entry point—enabling more learners to complete training, enter the profession, and meet the industry’s growing demand. All individuals pursuing aviation technical education are encouraged to apply, with priority consideration given to students enrolled at Aviation Technician Education Council member institutions. Award details and the application are available at www.chooseaerospace.org/scholarship. Applications are due March 1, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be announced in early March, and funds will be disbursed directly to training institutions or approved vendors on behalf of awardees. We want to tell more of your stories to help inspire all of us connected to Choose Aerospace. There are so many hard-working teachers and students in the program that it is hard to know where to start. This month, we heard about a program near Tulsa, Oklahoma that made the local news, so we figured we would share more about them. Aviation education is taking off at Charles Page High School in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, where Michael Palmer has been building something extraordinary. Now in its second year of using the Choose Aerospace curriculum, the program has really taken flight—not just with students, but across the community. Real Tools, Real Skills Backed by strong partnerships with local aviation employers—like Aircraft Specialties, DivCo Inc., Gibson Aviation, and more—students are learning with genuine aircraft parts and hands-on manufacturing projects. Palmer says these industry connections have been vital: “All support our program with parts, pieces, and manufacturing of items necessary for training.” Students are thriving in the shop environment, where academic content meets tactile learning. “They are learning from trial and error, an understanding of problem solving,” Palmer shares. “It’s a confidence builder.” Projects That Spark Joy Whether it’s mastering calipers or using aircraft manuals, Palmer sees the lightbulb moments up close. “They are so motivated when it's project time,” he says. He’s especially proud of how students come together—across grades, genders, and social groups—with a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie. “No grade level or social barriers—male and female are all working seamlessly together equally.” District-Level Support, Community Spirit From administrative backing to grant writing help, the program’s support system is robust. With help from Principal Mr. Smith and others, the classroom has expanded, new equipment has been added (including eight Redbird Velocity simulators!), and grant funding has fulfilled the entire Choose Aerospace lab list. Palmer also credits his instructional coach and a small army of students who helped clean, organize, and reassemble equipment—even writing manuals where none existed. A Future with Flight Palmer is confident that this experience is setting students up for success--whether or not they pursue aviation careers. “They have the tools of knowledge and reasoning to seek out a life that will give them security and a productive happy life.” He’s also quick to express his gratitude for the village that made this all happen--from his wife Bridget’s two years of personal support to school administrators, friends, mentors, and Oklahoma Career Tech. “I am so thankful,” Palmer says, reflecting on the chance to share his aviation knowledge with the next generation. We know that Michael is just one of the awesome Choose Aerospace teachers running a great program this year. Please reach out to us at [email protected] and we will send you an interview form. We want to tell your story, too! Learn More Want to learn more about Michael Palmer and the Charles Page High School aviation program? Check out this recent article: https://www.newson6.com/the-porch-news-on-6/sand-springs-students-soar-with-hands-on-aviation-program-at-charles-page-high  Michael Palmer being interviewed by a local TV station. Credit: April Wall
Choose Aerospace has been selected for a 2026 Laureate Award in the MRO category. The recognition reflects the focused work our instructors, partners, and students have put into expanding and strengthening the aviation maintenance talent pipeline.
For more than sixty years, the Aviation Week Network Laureate Awards have highlighted programs and people who deliver meaningful progress across aviation, aerospace, and defense. The MRO category honors efforts that advance maintenance, repair, and overhaul through innovation and workforce development. Choose Aerospace’s mission is straightforward: create earlier, clearer, and more accessible pathways into technical careers. Since 2020, our high school program has reached over 2,600 students across more than 40 programs. Through a comprehensive curriculum and an industry recognized credential, students gain a practical head start toward FAA mechanic certification before entering a part 147 school or the workforce. It is one of the few scalable tools the industry has to address long term technician shortages. This award reflects the collective work of the instructors, schools, industry partners, and students who make this progress possible. We are grateful to Aviation Week Network for the recognition and remain focused on solutions that deliver real outcomes for students, employers, and the communities they serve.  We’re thrilled to welcome Thomas Sando of Williston High School in North Dakota as a new Choose Aerospace curriculum partner this year. With eight years of aviation teaching experience, Mr. Sando is bringing his passion and proven success to the Choose Aerospace curriculum.
Earlier this year, Mr. Sando was honored as the 2025 A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year for his dynamic and innovative classroom, which includes hands‑on projects, industry site visits, and an airplane-build project. In an interview linked below, Thomas had this to say about the adage if you do what you love for a living, you'll never work a day in your life. "I don't necessarily agree with that. You do what you love for a living, and you'll never work harder." What a great perspective! By adding the Choose Aerospace curriculum, Mr. Sando is helping his students access structured, nationally‑recognized aviation maintenance pathways. We’re excited to support his efforts and proud to have another dedicated educator joining our network. Thomas Sando pictured with his wife Sarah (left), CA Executive Director Crystal Maguire (right), and CA Program Manager Tarra Ruttman (far right) at the National Aviation Hall of Fame awards in September. For further reading: We’re pleased to announce two important leadership appointments that deepen the alignment between Choose Aerospace and the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC), reinforcing our shared mission to expand pathways into aviation maintenance careers.
Denise Hensley, Career & Technology Coordinator at Putnam City Schools (OK), has joined the ATEC Board of Directors as the high‑school representative. Denise brings more than 20 years of experience in CTE, and her current work with Choose Aerospace gives her an on‑the‑ground perspective of aviation education in secondary schools. Full bio here. Jim Hall, President of ATEC and Vice President of Aviation & Workforce Development at WSU Tech, has joined the Choose Aerospace Board of Directors. Jim will continue to serve on the CA board during his tenure as Immediate Past President of ATEC. Full bio here. After Jim’s term on the CA board concludes, the next Immediate Past President of ATEC will also serve on the CA board — a new tradition that will ensure long-term alignment between the two organizations. This reciprocal board participation strengthens our collaboration and ensures that Choose Aerospace programs remain aligned with industry standards and workforce needs. We’re excited for the ideas, advocacy, and impact this strengthened partnership will bring to our teachers, students, and the aviation maintenance workforce of tomorrow. Since its inception, and with the generous support of the aviation community, Choose Aerospace has awarded more than $240k in funding, books, testing fees, and equipment to support continued education for aspiring aviators.
Now, we’re taking our scholarship program to the next level. Choose Aerospace is dramatically expanding its impact through a complete program overhaul—one that provides greater funding for future aviators and builds stronger connections between educators and employers. We are proud to announce the launch of the Choose Aerospace SkillPointe Scholarship, a new initiative designed to address the nationwide shortage of skilled aviation maintenance professionals. This program is being launched in partnership with the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC), which will connect scholarship opportunities directly to students enrolled in FAA part 147 aviation maintenance programs across the country. The scholarship will also be promoted to high school students currently taking Choose Aerospace coursework, ensuring early exposure to aviation maintenance career pathways. Through a new collaboration with the SkillPointe Foundation, the program will leverage SkillPointe’s extensive national network of technical training providers and career-seeking applicants to reach a broader pool of qualified candidates. Contributors to the Fund will gain: · Access to applicant data for outreach and recruitment · Visibility among aviation students and training programs · Opportunities to promote career and education pathways to a highly motivated audience This initiative goes beyond funding—it strengthens the aviation workforce pipeline by connecting students with employers and technical training that leads to FAA mechanic certification. Now is your opportunity to become a Founding Contributor to the Choose Aerospace SkillPointe Scholarship Fund. Founding Contributors will be recognized as early champions of this transformative initiative and play a key role in shaping the program’s long-term success. Download the program flyer to see additional benefits based on contribution level, including scholarship naming opportunities and strategic visibility, or email us to schedule a call and explore partnership opportunities. About Choose Aerospace Choose Aerospace is a 501(c)(3) coalition of aerospace stakeholders dedicated to growing and diversifying the aviation technical workforce. The organization develops and distributes affordable, hybrid aviation maintenance curriculum and connects students, schools, and employers to career opportunities. Its mission is to enroll 10,000 students in aviation maintenance training by 2027 through partnerships with schools, municipalities, and industry leaders. About SkillPointe Foundation The SkillPointe Foundation provides vocational scholarships that help individuals gain the skills needed for rewarding careers in high-demand trades. By leveraging its nationwide network of education partners, employers, and applicants, the foundation accelerates access to training programs that lead directly to sustainable employment in fields like aviation maintenance, construction, energy, and healthcare. About the Aviation Technician Education Council ATEC represents FAA-certificated Part 147 schools and supports their mission to prepare the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals. ATEC advocates for effective policies, provides leadership development, and promotes partnerships that align training programs with industry workforce needs across the nation. Choose Aerospace is pleased to announce a new Group Discount Pricing structure for educational access to the Choose Aerospace Maintenance Curriculum—designed to make aviation maintenance education even more affordable and scalable for schools as their programs grow. Affordability has always been a top priority for Choose Aerospace. This new structure reinforces that commitment by providing schools with the opportunity to save more as they grow, ensuring that cost remains an enabler—not a barrier—to expanding high-quality aviation maintenance education. The Group Discount Pricing structure makes it easier for schools to plan for growth and manage costs with predictable annual rates. As the number of active users increases, schools automatically qualify for more favorable pricing:  With this new pricing approach, Choose Aerospace is helping schools expand their aviation maintenance programs more efficiently while keeping education accessible to more students. Institutions can now add students and instructors while maintaining a clear and predictable budget — ensuring that growth and affordability go hand in hand.
The Group Discount Pricing program is available today for current programs that wish to opt in and take advantage of the new structure. It will also be incorporated into the license fee structure for all new and renewing programs moving forward. The 2025-26 school year has seen tremendous growth in Choose Aerospace programs available to high school students across the country. These students are not only being exposed to an advanced, highly rewarding segment of the aerospace industry, but they are also taking meaningful steps down a clearly defined, in-demand career path.
Airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and aviation maintenance specialists need skilled workers. A new report from the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) and Oliver Wyman shows the U.S. commercial airline industry needs 10,000 more mechanics today. This shortage isn't going away. Programs like Choose Aerospace are part of the industry's plan to attract more employees with the required training. Aviation maintenance is a rewarding career. Besides the built-in "cool factor" of working on and around aircraft, most mechanics can expect attractive wages and benefits. Data compiled for the ATEC report found the average starting hourly rate for licensed aircraft mechanics in 2024 was nearly $30 per hour. Pay rates rise quickly with experience, especially for airline mechanics covered by labor union contracts. The key to getting a job as a certified mechanic is obtaining an FAA license. Choose Aerospace provides a pathway for prospective technicians to take general coursework required of all FAA-certified mechanics. Under a plan being developed by industry and the FAA, high school students that complete the coursework and pass an exam will get credit towards a full certification. They would then continue their education at an accredited college or university, or in an employer-sponsored apprenticeship. Either path would lead them to earning an FAA airframe & powerplant license and make them eligible for full-time work as an aircraft mechanic. Choose Aerospace's mission is to help develop and promote strong aviation technical workforce pipelines. This benefits the aviation maintenance industry and, more importantly, provides opportunities for young people seeking a challenging, rewarding career. The 2025–26 school year is off and running, and we’re already seeing incredible growth across our Choose Aerospace programs! As of this week:
Every one of these numbers represents a student with new access to hands-on, career-connected learning. We’re grateful for the teachers and schools working hard to open these doors — and we’re excited to see even more programs come online in the weeks ahead. We’ll share another update in the next newsletter as this momentum continues to build! |
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501(c)(3) non-profit [email protected] • 888.262.2367 P.O. BOX 234 • JENKS, OK 74037 |