BRCC Aviation Maintenance Program Ready To Fly
The college is expecting about 15 students to enroll, said BRCC President Jim Perkins, who added that a few slots are still open.
The school is expected to receive Federal Aviation Administration approval within the next two weeks, Perkins said.
Classes start in August.
Investment and Development
BRCC is the only community college in the state to offer the program, school officials said.
Fred Dyen, assistant professor and program coordinator, has been developing the program since he was hired in December.
The FAA wants "to see the pencils on the table before they certify you," Dyen said.
Dyen, a pilot and mechanic, led a similar program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks for about 20 years before moving here.
So far, in hiring a new faculty member, purchasing equipment and leasing space, the school has invested about $1 million in the program, Perkins said.
An additional $500,000 in equipment has been donated from local aviation companies, including Dynamic Aviation in Bridgewater and Select Aerospace Industries in Weyers Cave.
"From a purely business perspective, we’re in the hole," Perkins said. "But our mission is to serve the community."
Community Program
Aviation grows with the economy, which in the Valley is very strong, said Greg Campbell, executive director of the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport, where the course is being taught.
Campbell said he expects "consistent growth in just about every segment" of aviation in the Valley.
Such is the case with Dynamic Aviation.
As of January, the company was looking to hire about 20 mechanics, some in entry-level positions.
Though they have added to their staff, they still have "a number of positions open," President and Chief Executive Officer of Dynamic Aviation Michael Stoltzfus said.
That’s one reason the firm was eager to partner with BRCC in the program’s development.
"We believe it’s not only good for Dynamic Aviation, but for the Valley and the region," Stoltzfus said. "Any time that technical education can occur in a community, it’s good for the community."