Auburn, Southern Union partnering to build new hangar, train aviation mechanics

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A new hangar is expected to come from the partnership. (Auburn University)

A new partnership between Auburn University and Southern Union State Community College has high hopes of helping solve a nationwide shortage of aviation mechanics.

The agreement between the two schools will construct a new hangar to be used in Southern Union’s Airframe and Powerplant School. It will also be used by Auburn’s School of Aviation.

Keep reading to find out more about the new hangar + how the schools’ partnership could impact the industry.

New hangar

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Aerial shot of the Auburn airport where the new facility will be. (Auburn University)

The new facility will be built near the Delta Air Lines Aviation Education Building and the School of Aviation’s maintenance hangar at the Auburn University Regional Airport.

The university said the industry is experiencing shortages in several areas including maintenance staff. This new facility will help produce more qualified aircraft maintenance personnel.

“Our students and those from Southern Union will be able to use this new facility to learn skills that can propel them to long and successful careers in aviation, and this agreement will help Auburn continue to produce exceptional graduates who can make an impact in the industry for generations to come.”

~ James Witte, Director of the Auburn School of Aviation

Southern Union is also starting an Aviation Maintenance Technology program with a full waiting list of students.

Auburn’s aviation program has grown to more than 800 undergraduate students in recent years. Graduates have experienced a nearly 100% job placement rate after completing their training on the Plains.

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Caleb Turrentine
Caleb Turrentine
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