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Choose Aerospace recently held its annual Board of Directors meeting to review progress, set strategic direction, and advance efforts to strengthen the aerospace technical workforce pipeline.
During the meeting, the Board formally adopted a new multi-year strategic plan designed to guide decision-making and ensure alignment with the organization’s mission: meeting the evolving needs of the aerospace workforce through accessible and attainable career pathways. The plan will serve as a living framework—reviewed regularly and adapted as opportunities and challenges emerge—while remaining grounded in real-time industry demand. The strategic plan outlines clear priorities across curriculum development, credential expansion, funding and scholarships, board and staff growth, and data-driven impact reporting. Central to the plan is an intentional focus on collaboration with industry to carry out key initiatives, expand work-based learning opportunities, and build secondary, post-secondary, and employer partnerships. Near-term objectives include expanding credential recognition in high-employment aviation states, strengthening scholarship opportunities through a new pooled funding model, enhancing curriculum alignment with FAA standards, and capturing measurable success stories that demonstrate workforce outcomes for students and employers alike. The Board also took action to strengthen its governance with the election of Margaret “Meg” Muller of PSA Airlines to a three-year term as Director. Muller brings deep industry experience and a strong commitment to workforce development and aviation career pathways. Her appointment reflects the organization’s continued emphasis on board leadership that actively supports industry alignment, partnerships, and sustainable growth. Additional updates included continued national expansion of the Choose Aerospace curriculum—now serving more than 1,100 students across 21 states—with new programs and partnerships in development. The Board also discussed upcoming scholarship launches, credit-bearing pathways for graduates, and opportunities to further collaborate with industry to reduce barriers between education and employment. With the adoption of the strategic plan and the addition of new board leadership, Choose Aerospace is well positioned to work alongside industry partners to expand access, strengthen pathways, and deliver measurable outcomes for the aerospace workforce. Choose Aerospace is actively seeking industry partners to support execution and amplify impact—please reach out to get involved.
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Choose Aerospace, in partnership with the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC), is expanding access to FAA-aligned mechanic education with a new online, independent-learning option for FAA A&P General coursework.
Through this partnership, Choose Aerospace and ATEC aim to increase flexibility and access in aviation education by providing a high-quality learning option that supports workforce development, instructor preparation, and industry engagement—while complementing, not replacing, FAA-certificated A&P programs. This offering serves as an additional resource for professional development, instructor enrichment, and industry support—particularly for individuals seeking structured exposure to the general curriculum that can be completed on an independent timeline. The program is primarily intended for adult learners, including aviation educators, industry professionals, and instructors at A&P schools who are not yet certificated but are seeking a deeper, more formal grounding in FAA general subjects. Homeschool students, highly motivated secondary and postsecondary learners, and private individuals are also welcome to enroll. Program Structure, Time Commitment, and Learner Support Participants will complete the coursework using Choose Aerospace’s FAA ACS–aligned curriculum, delivered through a learning management system (LMS). The program is self-paced and designed to accommodate individual schedules. The content includes video lectures, content reinforcing activities, and multiple assessments to measure progress. The estimated time to complete the online General coursework is approximately 150 hours of computer-based instruction, though actual completion time may vary depending on prior knowledge and learning pace. Learners are supported by a certificated A&P instructor serving in a coaching role. There are no required class meeting times; instead, the instructor provides assistance through office hours and asynchronous support, helping learners navigate content, clarify concepts, and stay on track. In addition to the knowledge-based coursework, optional opportunities may be available to support hands-on labs or project-based learning via video conference, provided the learner has access to the necessary tools and equipment. These activities are supplemental in nature and intended to reinforce understanding of the curriculum. More information about the FAA-aligned curriculum is available at: www.chooseaerospace.org/curriculum.html Important Notes on FAA Eligibility and Credit Completion of the FAA A&P General coursework through this online option does not, by itself, qualify an individual to take the FAA General knowledge test. However, students who complete the curriculum and pass a comprehensive ATEC written exam earn the ATEC General Aviation Maintenance Credential, which may be eligible for credit-bearing opportunities at participating FAA-certificated A&P schools, subject to each school’s eligibility requirements. As such, this program can serve as a preparatory or supplemental pathway for learners planning to enter or continue formal A&P training. Students interested in a direct-to-work pathway can gain an edge on job applications and interviews in comparison to applicants with no prior experience in aviation. Employers will be able to see the evidence that you have mastered the General aviation maintenance knowledge standards, helping you will stand out in the applicant pool. Indicate Your Interest Individuals who would like to enroll or request pricing information are encouraged to complete the interest form at: https://www.chooseaerospace.org/online-faa-mechanic-general-coursework.html When retired Marine Corps Captain Jeremy Weber stepped into a Union High School classroom in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he brought with him the discipline of the military, the precision of aviation mechanics, and a heart full of purpose. Now in its first year, Union’s Aviation Maintenance Program is already taking flight—building confident students, inspiring long-term career goals, and drawing the attention of major industry partners. And it’s just getting started.  From the Cradle of Naval Aviation to the Tulsa Classroom Captain Weber is no stranger to teaching aviation maintenance. Between 2003 and 2008, he trained more than 4,500 Marines and Sailors at the “Cradle of Naval Aviation” in NAS Pensacola, Florida. Now, with Choose Aerospace curriculum in hand and a clear mission to serve his students, he’s creating something extraordinary at the high school level. “This is my first year teaching high school and incorporating Choose Aerospace at Union,” Weber said. Jeremy Weber. Credit: Jeremy Weber But the vision is the same: to pass down the knowledge, discipline, and hands-on skills that aviation careers demand—and to do it in a way that changes lives. Union Public Schools has been quick to support that vision, embracing aviation as a career-connected learning opportunity for students who want a hands-on, high-skill path after graduation. The program sits within Union’s Career Connect Aerospace pathway, which also includes flight instruction and engineering—providing students with a comprehensive introduction to the vast world of aviation. Building Pathways, Not Just Classrooms Weber is a firm believer that pathways—not just classes—are what students need. That’s why one of his top priorities has been forming partnerships with local aviation employers and organizations. “My primary goal for our students is to create clear, attainable pathways into aviation careers after high school,” he explained. “We’re actively developing relationships with Tulsa-area aviation companies to support this mission.” Those efforts are already bearing fruit. American Airlines operates one of the world’s largest Part 145 repair stations on a massive maintenance base in Tulsa. They’ve become natural partners for Union’s program. A&P mechanics Logan and Matt Brown—father and son—have made multiple visits to the classroom from the American hangars, bringing not only industry expertise but also inspiration.  Union students at American Airlines. Credit: Union Public Schools “With an aging aviation maintenance workforce, it is imperative that we intentionally pair experienced technicians with students like ours through mentoring, job-shadowing, and apprenticeships,” Weber said. “The clock is ticking. We can’t afford to lose that critical knowledge before it’s passed on.” Lufthansa, another global name in aviation, has also stepped up—donating real aircraft components to enhance hands-on learning. Meanwhile, companies like Spirit AeroSystems, Nordam, and Boeing are beginning conversations about developing post-high-school pathways for Union graduates. Each of these partners recognizes the same thing: classrooms like Union’s are where the future of the industry begins. Lights On, Calipers Out One of Weber’s most rewarding experiences has been watching the lightbulb moments his students experience as abstract concepts suddenly become real. Take, for instance, the day he had students measure a human hair—roughly 0.003 to 0.004 inches—with dial calipers. “It gave them a tangible reference for just how small a thousandth of an inch is,” he said. “That concept clicked in a very real way.” Moments like that are common in the lab. Students are mastering tools, manuals, and measurement techniques—and with each new skill, their confidence grows. What began as just an elective has turned into something more powerful for many of them: a direction. A Culture of Purpose What surprised Weber most wasn’t just how quickly the students picked up the material—it was how quickly they expressed a genuine interest in pursuing aviation as a long-term career. “Students who just signed up for an elective are now asking about certification pathways, industry opportunities, and next steps from high school,” Weber said. “They’ve moved from curiosity to active career exploration.” “They’re learning that skilled trades are valuable, respected, and full of purpose,” he said. “I have witnessed a noticeable increase in student confidence, curiosity, and career clarity.” Support That Soars None of this would be possible without the powerful web of support surrounding the program—from within the school, the district, and the Tulsa community. Weber credits Union administrators—Drs. Moore, Campbell, Bittle, and Robinson—for providing unwavering encouragement and resources. He’s also grateful to Jason McMullen, his fellow aviation instructor, whose years of experience have been a valuable guide. Even the school’s neighbors are getting involved. Nearby Asbury Church has provided supplies and support, showing students that the broader community is invested in their success. “We have been fortunate to receive support from our surrounding community,” Weber said. “This collective support—from school leadership, industry partners, and the local community—has been instrumental in helping our budding program thrive.” More Than Just Jobs So what does the future look like for Union’s aviation students? Weber envisions graduates who are prepared not just for entry-level jobs, but for long-term, fulfilling careers—ones built on skill, pride, and professionalism. Students will graduate understanding how to work with tools safely and with precision. They’ll carry with them a strong foundation in discipline, collaboration, and hands-on learning. And perhaps most importantly, they’ll see the trades not as a fallback option—but as a path of honor and possibility. “One of my personal objectives is to inspire students to learn how to skillfully work with their hands and take pride in using tools correctly and safely,” he said. “Helping students discover that working in the trades is both meaningful and honorable is an outcome I consider just as important as any specific career pathway.”  Union students visiting Southwest Airlines. Credit: Union Public Schools A Model Worth Replicating
As Choose Aerospace continues expanding across the country, programs like Union’s are proof of what’s possible. With a passionate instructor, community buy-in, and industry alignment, a brand-new program can ignite careers, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Weber and his students aren’t just building aviation maintenance skills. They’re building a future workforce—one thousandth of an inch at a time. To Learn More: Talk live with Union High School’s Aerospace pathway team at the ATEC 2026 Annual Conference in Portland, OR, March 29-April1. Jeremy and his colleagues will present a break-out session on how they started their Choose Aerospace program with so much momentum. Learn more about the conference and register here: https://www.atec-amt.org/events/2026-annual-conference You can also visit the Union Aviation website here: https://uhs.unionps.org/college-career/career-connect/aerospace 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. 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. |
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© 2026 Choose Aerospace, Inc.
Choose Aerosspace is a 501(c)(3) non-profit
Choose Aerosspace is a 501(c)(3) non-profit