Recently, ACTE updated its Sector Sheet on CTE’s role in developing the aerospace and defense workforce for 2021 with current labor market projections, information about how CTE prepares the workforce for this sector, and examples of exemplary programs in aerospace and defense.
The U.S. aerospace and defense industry is a global leader in the development and operation of air, space and defense systems, creating products and services that support commercial businesses and the Armed Forces. More than 60,000 jobs are expected by 2036 in large unmanned systems, and the Federal Aviation Administration projects that remote pilots will outnumber traditional instrument-rated pilots in the next few years. Also needed are IT experts to develop, maintain and protect national security and commercial systems, along with workers with expertise in additive manufacturing (3D printing) and aviation maintenance technicians.
CTE programs are at the forefront in preparing youth and adults for aerospace and defense careers. On the secondary level, 50+ high schools and skills centers across Washington state have partnered with Boeing to implement the company’s Core Plus curriculum that includes foundational manufacturing skills and aerospace-related courses such as fiber optics, advanced composites and robotics. Core Plus Aerospace provides students with opportunities to receive an industry-backed certificate of competency and participate in a paid internship. On the postsecondary level, Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) offers an unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) program to develop the workforce for 94 aviation-related companies in the region. The program has grown to include an associate degree program and two Career Studies certificate programs in the field of smart farming, which explores how drones and other technologies can tackle agricultural challenges. The MECC UAS program has a 94% pass rate for the FAA Small Pilot Certificate.
ACTE’s Sector Sheet series is generously supported by Pearson.
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