SWANTON, Ohio — A weekend event can connect your high school student to a career path that can take them to new heights.
"The airlines industry is desperate for people, whether they're mechanics, or pilots - or if it's people just working in airports," said Kurt Wicklund, Senior Director at the Aerospace & Natural Science Academy of Toledo
Wicklund said ANSAT is training the next generation of airline industry specialists to meet those needs.
ANSAT has been operating a state magnet school for six years, and upon graduating, these students will have earned their airframe and powerplant certification, making them fully certified airplane mechanics.
These opportunities allows students to choose between a more advanced engineering degree in college, or starting their career right away.
"Because it's a high school education, it's paid for through the state. It's a really great opportunity," said Wicklund. "It's a lot of work, it's FAA regulated, it's a tough program. I mean the reward is great, but you're going to earn that reward, you know what I mean?"
A senior, who plans to enter directly into a career after graduating, said the program provides a remarkable opportunity.
"Ever since I started going here, I told myself I'm not trying to go to college," said senior Maximillian Welles. "I want to get my certifications here and move out and get a job as soon as I'm done with high school. And it is such a stress free feeling now."
ANSAT said it's expanding next year to now include 7th and 8th grade into the curriculum. School leaders are inviting anyone who is interested to come out to the Aviation Expo and Open House. The event will feature plane and helicopter rides, food trucks, inflatable and kids' activities.
The event doesn't just showcase what the school has to offer, but what potential careers students can jump into right after graduating.
"Anyone who is interested in aviation is welcome to attend, it's open to the public," Wicklund said. "So, we want people to come out and have fun."
"Definitely come here and check it out, it's something you don't to miss. It's going to open up your life to a million opportunities that you didn't know you had," Welles said.
The ANSAT Open House and Aviation Expo runs this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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