TCAT’s Aviation Tech Facility Opening Delayed: Local News Update!
- The aviation maintenance technology facility at Winchester Municipal Airport has been a highly anticipated addition to the Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville. However, with the recent passing of Senior Instructor Scott Scarborough, plans for the opening of the facility have been delayed until the fall quarter of 2024.
- Jimmy Wright, president of TCAT-Shelbyville, explained that it will take about two quarters to have all the necessary paperwork and approval from the Federal Aviation Administration in order to begin accepting aviation maintenance technology students next fall. The absence of Scarborough has led to some documents needing to be redrafted to reflect operational changes without him.
- Despite this setback, Wright remains optimistic about finding a replacement instructor and submitting revisions to the FAA with the goal of having classes open during the fall quarter. The search for a new instructor is underway, and several qualified candidates have already applied for the position.
The aviation maintenance technology program aims to train students in inspecting, repairing, servicing, and overhauling airframes and power plants on both large and small aircraft. With a shortage of aviation maintenance technicians in high demand within the industry, graduates from this program are expected to find well-paying jobs in rewarding careers.
The delay in opening the facility has also impacted local high school students who are looking for alternative career paths that lead to better-paying jobs. The aviation maintenance technology program will provide an excellent opportunity for these students to venture into a high-tech field without needing a four-year college degree.
As if that weren’t enough to providing valuable education and job opportunities for students in Southern Middle Tennessee, this program will also benefit local aviation industries by filling a gap and meeting their workforce needs.
In reality, despite facing unforeseen challenges due to Scarborough’s passing, TCAT-Shelbyville remains committed to bringing this beneficial new technology program to fruition. Once opened, it will not only serve as an educational hub but also contribute towards meeting workforce demands within the aviation industry.
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