Vermont Tech earns 'School of Priority Status' from FAA

Vermont Technical College this week was certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a “School of Priority Status”, which will allow its graduates direct-hire access to jobs and internships at airports and FAA facilities throughout the United States. Under the FAA’s Airway Facilities - Collegiate Training Initiative (AF-CTI), students at approved colleges and universities are eligible for internships during their college years in specialized aviation-related fields of study.
Vermont Tech is the only college in Vermont and one of just 40 schools nationwide to be named an FAA School of Priority Status.
“The Federal Aviation Administration projects that in the coming decade there will be large numbers of employees entering retirement, resulting a need for well-trained engineers, technicians, and computer specialists,” said Lauri Sybel, Director of Vermont Tech’s Career Development Center. “And Vermont Tech graduates—especially those coming from the Electrical Engineering and Electromechanical Engineering Technology programs—are well qualified to step into these roles.”
In selecting “Schools of Priority Status” the FAA takes a number of factors into consideration, including curriculum, coursework, and facilities. The Vermont Tech program was first initiated in 2004. It was re-certified this week following a surprise visit and extensive review by the FAA.
“The FAA Student Intern Program offers students a unique opportunity for degree-related work experience at airports throughout the country,” said Amy Corbett, Regional Administrator, New England region, “and for selected individuals, the potential for permanent positions in a wide range of specialties within the FAA, including Electronic Technicians, General Engineers, Environmental Protection Specialists, Airway Transportation Systems Specialists, Computer System Specialists, and Cartographers.”
Students interested in participating in the AF-CTI Program via internships must be enrolled in an approved two-year certificate/degree or a four-year degree program for a minimum of one semester prior to applying to the program. For more information about the Collegiate Training Initiative and about Vermont Tech’s bachelor and associate degree programs, contact Lauri Sybel at 802-728-1320; or visit the college’s website at www.vtc.edu.
Source: VTC. 11.19.2009.