West Star Aviation has selected the the next group of 25 maintenance technician apprentices for its West Star Aviation Academy (WSAA) at the company’s facility in East Alton, Illinois. 

WSAA opened earlier this year in collaboration with Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) as part of an initiative to address the shortage of aircraft mechanics. Located onsite, the WSAA consists of a dedicated classroom and a learning hangar. Apprentices get hands-on training with standard tools and other components including a Falcon aircraft while using WSAA-branded versions of Corridor aviation software and other forms and procedures to simulate on-the-job experiences. 

“Since its inception, WSAA has received a tremendous amount of recognition, reaffirming West Star’s position as a leader in the industry by offering this program and aiding in the industry’s work shortage,” said West Star Aviation COO Allen McReynolds.

WSAA expects the first cohort of 25 apprentices to graduate in August. After completing four weeks of specific job training, the graduates will begin working at West Star on the Falcon, Bombardier, and Gulfstream programs in mid-September.

The second cohort will begin training immediately after the graduation of the first cohort. Recruiting for apprentices will continue for each upcoming session.