National aviation technician shortage leads to Auburn University and Southern Union education partnership

MONTGOMERY, Ala.(WSFA) – A new program to train aircraft maintenance workers is getting underway with a major construction project in Auburn. Auburn University and Southern Union State Community College have entered into a partnership to build a hangar that will be used for a new Airframe and Powerplant School.

The aviation industry faces serious shortages in many sectors, including maintenance personnel. According to Boeing, the industry will need to recruit, train and hire more than 600,000 new maintenance technicians over the 20-year period ending in 2041.

“This partnership is a great addition to our aviation program and airport,” said Auburn Aviation School Director James Witte. “Our students and those from Southern Union will be able to use this new facility to learn skills that will lead 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.”

Southern Union launched an Aviation Maintenance Technology program in 2023. This program is currently full and there is a waiting list of students ready to participate.

“The pool of experienced aviation technicians and technicians has diminished, creating a significant shortage in the field,” said SUSCC president Todd Shackett. “We are excited about the opportunity to meet a real need in the workforce that this partnership brings.”

Auburn University’s aviation school enrolls more than 800 undergraduate students and has a nearly 100% job placement rate thanks to Auburn’s agreements with Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

“This is a very exciting program that will benefit Auburn and Southern Union students, as well as the community and state, as these students look for employment after graduation,” said Bill Hutto, general manager of Auburn University Regional Airport. “Southern Union graduates working for Auburn have the opportunity to take advantage of Auburn’s tuition program to earn a four-year degree while working full time. “This is a win-win situation for everyone involved and the hangar will be a great addition to the airport facilities.”

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