Middle Georgia Technical College

Middle Georgia Technical College to Offer Aircraft Structural Program in Hawkinsville

Hawkinsville - Middle Georgia Technical College (MGTC) will begin offering Aircraft Structural Technology (AST) at the Sam Way, Sr. Hawkinsville Workforce Development Center Summer Quarter. Applications are now being accepted for the new Hawkinsville classes, including Commercial Truck Driving and Patient Care Assisting.

The Aircraft Structural Technology program is designed to give students the necessary skills to repair and maintain not only aircraft, but any other sheet metal structures. Skills learned in this program area are transferrable to many career fields including manufacturing and repair industries, construction, and the racing industry. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University is also accepting credits earned upon graduation toward Associates and Bachelor's degrees.

Classes in the AST program cover a variety of topics including precision measurement, pneumatic drilling, riveting and repairing aircraft structures, inspecting and diagnosing aircraft damage, cutting and forming aircraft metals, and fabricating and repairing flight control components.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for sheet metal technicians is expected to experience an average increase over the next 10 years. Many agencies in the Middle Georgia area employee sheet metal technicians, including aviation facilities and industrial complexes.

In addition, Middle Georgia Technical College participates in a co-op program with Robins Air Force Base. AST students who are selected for the co-op program will be able to gain vital skills through hands-on work experience at the Base while completing their education at MGTC.

Randy Rynders, MGTC AST instructor, and the staff at the Hawkinsville center are busy getting prepared for the new classes.

"We've moved tool boxes, equipment, and ordered additional special tools for the new program," he said. "You can't beat the exceptional facility we have to work and train in. Additionally I want recognize Ms. Donna Wall, Center Director, and Ms. Sandra Wilcox, Recruiter, both of whom have played a crucial role in getting the program started in Hawkinsville. Class space is limited as there is only room for 12 students right now, so I wouldn't delay if you're really interested."

Wilcox and Rynders recently visited Hawkinsville High School to share information about the new AST program with seniors.

"Hawkinsville residents have a fully accredited college right in their back yard," said Rynders. "If we don't have a class the student needs in Hawkinsville Center it will be available at the main campus in Warner Robins. We also have several AST classes available on line."

For more information on the new full time AST program at the Hawkinsville Workforce Development Center, call AST Instructor Randy Rynders at 478.988.6800, extension 4070.

Summer quarter classes start July 8. Applications for all new program areas in Hawkinsville, including Commercial Truck Driving and Patient Care Assisting, are now being accepted. Call the Hawkinsville Workforce Development Center for more information at 478.783.3017.

Students in Aircraft Structural Technology