The free program at North Valley Career Center offers an excellent opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in aviation maintenance.
The course allows students like Leia Gonzalez to set goals for themselves in the field.
“I was originally interested in becoming a flight attendant, but later on, after participating in this program, I became very interested in becoming a mechanic,” the young woman said.
Gonzalez participated in the North Valley Career Center’s Aircraft Mechanic Technician Program, learning a variety of skills in the field.
“They also drove the plane, what we call the taxi,” said Emilio Mendez, vice president of the North Valley Employment Center. “They got in the plane, did a general inspection, did everything except take off.”
The lesson took place at the Van Nuys Airport where students put their knowledge into practice.
“My older brother was in the Air Force and he taught me from a young age, and that’s where my passion came from,” said Andy Sol Pedroza, who wants to become an airline pilot.
Sol Pedroza noted that the class also allowed her to take apart and reassemble an engine, fly the Cessna and perform maintenance tasks on the plane, such as changing tires and oil.
If you are interested in a program, please visit the North Valley Career Center page, where you can find information about summer courses, extracurricular activities, and adult programs.
“Seeing so many male colleagues makes me want to continue in this job after high school because I want to be one of the first women in the industry,” Gonzalez said.
The program offers a great opportunity for people looking to enter the aviation industry, a job market that does not require a college degree and has salaries starting at $37.
At the end of the program, students will be given priority access to a certificate, bypassing the usual waiting list, speeding entry into the field.