Q&A with Rob Prosch
Aviation Maintanence Technology Update, May 2017
We recently chatted with Associate Dean of Aviation at Everett Community College Rob Prosch to learn more about EvCC's Aviation Maintenance Technology Program. Here is what he had to say:
What is new at Aviation? We have many initiatives underway. We have recently added an Advanced Avionics program, are in process of creating a more flexible and responsive curriculum, have renovated and are updating our facilities, and are working on the development of an industrial painting program.
Tell us a little more about the new Advanced Avionics program. As a professional/technical program, we have a responsibility to be responsive to industry need. Boeing and our other aviation partners identified that one of the largest skill gaps in the industry is avionics training. As a result, we partnered directly with Boeing and implemented the first Advanced Avionics program in Washington State. Our college Board of Trustees recognized this need for responsiveness as well and provided generous funding to implement the program. Further, donations from Fluke and Dynon Avionics have allowed us to have up to date equipment on which to train students.
What is a typical day like for students? A typical day would start with some theory classes and then move into hands on lab classes in our hangars. Students work directly with aircraft, aircraft components, and engines. They perform everything from manufacturing components, to troubleshooting and repair of systems. Additionally, students get to experience guest speakers, tours of industry, and some choose to volunteer at events like Alaska Airlines Aviation Day, Paine Field Aviation Day, and the Arlington Fly In. When mechanics find out who are students are at these events, they frequently take our students out to their aircraft to show them and ultimately teach them aspects they will need to know.
Where do students get hired? Alaska Airlines, Rolls Royce, Glasair, Arlington Flight Services, Boeing, and coming soon--Delta Airlines.
Is there anything else new at Aviation? We are celebrating our program's 50th anniversary next year with several new initiatives. September 23, we will be hosting our first annual Girls in Aviation Event. In October, we will officially celebrate our 50th anniversary (watch for date and specifics), and we are hoping to launch the program's first evening Part 147 cohort in the next year.
If someone was interested in Aviation Maintenance Technology programs, how should they get started? An interested person should attend one of our information sessions. We have them for both Advanced Avionics and the Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School. At these sessions you will learn about how to enroll in the program, what the requirements are, all about the specific program, and tours of the facilities are provided. Individual questions are also answered.
Anything else you'd like to share? Aviation is a great career for anyone interested. We see many come through our program who are looking for second careers. Interested individuals will find a warm, welcoming and inviting atmosphere at EvCC's AMT program and we look forward to serving our community's needs for many more years to come.