The Louisiana Workforce Commission State Apprenticeship Council recently approved the launch of the state’s first-ever Aviation Maintenance Apprenticeship program. The apprenticeship connects SOWELA Technical Community College Aviation Maintenance students with a paid apprenticeship at Citadel Completions and is in response to a high demand for Aviation Maintenance Technicians.
“This is another great example of industry partnering with education to develop a skilled and qualified workforce. As I always state, SOWELA is in the workforce development business and this apprenticeship program provides our Aviation Program students a great opportunity to “earn while they learn” with the potential for a great career in the Aviation industry,” said SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall. “Citadel is a great company, and I appreciate their willingness to strengthen their partnership with the College through this one-of-a-kind apprenticeship program.”
The two-year apprenticeship provides students with on-the-job training and the opportunity to secure a full-time position following graduation. Job duties mirror what students learn in class. They complete their SOWELA coursework in the morning and then put their skills to work at Citadel Completions in the afternoon.
“An aviation apprenticeship program is an invaluable way to develop skilled professionals in the industry,” said Citadel Completions Employee Development Specialist Christian Ogden. “By combining hands-on experience with structured training and mentorship, apprentices gain critical technical expertise while actively contributing to real-world aviation operations. This immersive approach not only builds confidence and competence but also sets the foundation for a successful, long-term career in aviation.”
Apprentices start at $22/hour with raises as they earn additional certifications through SOWELA’s Aviation Maintenance program. After completing the program and if offered a full-time position at Citadel Completions, new grads may receive an increase in pay of $29/hour.
“Through our partnership with SOWELA Technical Community College, Citadel Completions is bridging the gap between education and hands-on industry experience, shaping the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals,” said Citadel Completions Talent Acquisition Specialist Chris Adams. “This apprenticeship program not only strengthens our local workforce but also elevates the standards of excellence in the aviation industry. Together, we are investing in talent, innovation, and the future of aviation.”
According to the Aviation Technician Education Council’s Pipeline Report, the current U.S. shortage of Aviation Maintenance Technicians is estimated at 9% and will reach nearly 20%—equivalent to about 25,000 certificated mechanics—by 2028.
“Creating workforce development partnerships with educational institutions and employers is a key strategy that ensures workers are ready to continue Louisiana’s proud history of aviation innovation,” LED FastStart Executive Director Chelsea Dufrene said. “LED’s past partnership with Citadel Completions has made the company a Southwest Louisiana economic development success story, and we applaud SOWELA’s efforts to pair the next generation of workers with exciting opportunities.”
Currently, SOWELA has 45 Aviation Maintenance students. The associate degree program is a federally regulated Aviation Training School certified by the FAA. Once training is complete, students are prepared to sit for the FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification. Students learn to maintain various aircraft, including a working Boeing 707, and the curriculum covers avionics and engine start training.
SOWELA’s Aviation Maintenance graduates have a high placement rate, reflecting the strong demand for their skills. According to instructor surveys and industry partners, SOWELA’s placement rate for this program is 90% within the first six months. Job titles and average annual salaries for SOWELA graduates are Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) ($70,645), Avionics Technician ($69,454), Line Maintenance Technician ($57,000), Maintenance Supervisor ($85,000), Quality Control Inspector ($67,500), and Maintenance Planner ($101,989).
