Students graduate from inaugural Skills Center/Pearson Air Museum summer aviation program

Nearly two-dozen Clark County Skills Center students graduated from Pearson Air Museum’s inaugural summer aviation program yesterday. Formed with the help of Leadership Clark County, the program aimed to provide local students with an introduction to the world of aviation-related careers.

In a letter to students read aloud during yesterday’s graduation ceremony, Washington Senator Maria Cantwell congratulated the first class of graduates, calling them “pioneers whose success will encourage others to enter careers in aviation.”

“Your work today builds upon the proud history of flight in Washington state,” she continued. “Our state is the national hub of aerospace manufacturing, producing cutting-edge aircraft and aerospace parts for the nation’s military and civilian companies all across the globe. I’m encouraged by Southwest Washington’s growing role in aerospace training and employment, with more than 1,000 aerospace jobs already in the region.”

Cantwell noted that over the next 10 years, Washington state expects to have more than 21,000 aerospace job openings.

“This presents both a challenge for our state – and a great opportunity for talented students such as yourselves,” the senator wrote. “Your passion for aviation and successful completion of this course puts you on track to succeed at one of Washington state’s many aerospace companies.”