Summary
Ozarks Technical Community College broke ground on its new Airframe and Powerplant (aviation maintenance) training facility at the old Springfield-Branson National Airport terminal.
Ozarks Technical Community College broke ground on its new Airframe and Powerplant (aviation maintenance) training facility at the old Springfield-Branson National Airport terminal today, Monday, Oct. 23. The Airframe and Powerplant program will teach students to service, maintain and repair everything on the aircraft from nose to tail, including engines, the airframe body and mechanical systems.
Thanks to multiple government partners, most of the Airframe and Powerplant facility’s $13.2 million cost will come from sources external to the college. OTC received:
- $3 million from a U.S. Department of Labor Community Projects Grant.
- $5 million from the State of Missouri.
- $750,000 from Greene County.
- $750,000 from the City of Springfield.
“This is a great example of institutional cooperation in the service of economic development,” said Brian Weiler, Springfield-Branson National Airport director of aviation. “Five different public organizations, from the local level all the way to the federal government, came together to develop this aviation maintenance and repair facility, which will attract private industry. No one worried about who received the credit, and, ultimately, the community wins.”
Springfield Mayor Ken McClure, Presiding Greene County Commissioner Bob Dixon, OTC Board of Trustees Vice Chair Paula Adams and OTC Chancellor Dr. Hal Higdon joined Mr. Weiler at the groundbreaking.
According to a BKD market analysis, aviation maintenance is in the 98th percentile for regional employment demand. Recently, American Airlines opened a maintenance facility hub in Springfield, increasing the need for qualified Airframe and Powerplant professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average wage for an aviation maintenance professional in Missouri is $62,490 annually.
“This Airframe and Powerplant program is another example of a training program that leads to a lucrative career, but doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree,” said Paula Adams, OTC Board of Trustees vice chair. “In just two years, our students will be qualified for high-paying jobs that are in great demand. This new program is a win-win-win for our students, the economy and the aviation industry.”
The Airframe and Powerplant program will open in 2025. The initial class will have a maximum of 25 slots.
