Textron Aviation helps shape tomorrow’s workforce through Kansas’ first aviation youth apprenticeship initiative

As the first aviation company in Kansas to introduce state-registered youth apprenticeships through the Kansas Office of Apprenticeships, Textron Aviation is taking a leading role in workforce development. The initiative provides high school students from age 16 with paid, real-world learning opportunities that foster industry knowledge, practical skills, and early career readiness, helping cultivate the future talent pipeline for the aviation sector.

Textron Aviation is introducing three state-registered youth apprenticeship pathways designed to provide students with hands-on experience in some of the aviation industry's most in-demand disciplines:

• Airframe & Powerplant (A&P), delivered in partnership with WSU Tech in Wichita, Kansas.
• Avionics, developed in collaboration with WSU Tech in Wichita, Kansas.
• Engine Buildup, offered in partnership with Tri County Tech, based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, with the apprenticeship program hosted in Independence, Kansas.

The inaugural cohorts commenced this fall, embarking on structured learning journeys that combine classroom education with practical workplace training over a period of up to three years, equipping participants with the technical expertise and professional competencies needed for long-term careers in aviation.

Maggie Topping, senior vice president, Human Resources and Communications commented: “The youth apprenticeship program is about opening the door earlier for students who can see themselves building a future in aviation. By working with our education and workforce partners, we’re helping students gain meaningful experience, build confidence and develop the skills our industry needs for the future.”

Dr. Sheree Utash, president, WSU Tech stated: “Youth apprenticeships are exactly the kind of opportunity we need more of. Students are gaining real skills, earning while they learn and building a direct path into high-demand aviation careers. That is good for students, good for industry and good for Kansas.”

With the aviation industry facing growing demand for qualified talent, Textron Aviation’s youth apprenticeship initiative is designed to cultivate the next generation of professionals by combining education with hands-on industry experience. Working alongside skilled technicians and manufacturing specialists, apprentices translate classroom learning into practical expertise while gaining valuable insight into the processes behind the production and maintenance of world-class aircraft.

Each pathway integrates formal education with structured workplace training at Textron Aviation facilities. Graduates earn a credential from the Kansas Office of Apprenticeships, while students in the Airframe & Powerplant track additionally achieve FAA A&P certification, positioning them for long-term success in aviation maintenance careers.

Shonda Anderson, director, Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship said: “We already are seeing positive results in other sectors when Kansas employers bring Registered Apprenticeship directly to high school students. Textron Aviation is leading the way in aviation and advanced manufacturing, giving young Kansans the opportunity to earn while they learn, and building the skills they need for high-wage, in-demand careers right here in Kansas. This is more than preparing students for the future – it’s connecting youth with great aviation careers right now.”

The apprenticeship programs were developed in collaboration with educational institutions and workforce organizations, including the Kansas Office of Apprenticeships, Wichita Public Schools, Haysville Public Schools, Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School, Dewey High School in Oklahoma, WSU Tech and Tri County Tech.

Early exposure to aviation careers can lead to continued learning, professional growth and long-term opportunities in the industry. Through its youth apprenticeship program, Textron Aviation is helping develop the next generation of aviation professionals while strengthening Kansas’ aviation workforce.

Learn more about career pathways, apprenticeship opportunities and workforce development initiatives at txtav.com/careers/apprenticeships.