Key Takeaways
- Daytona State College is introducing an associate of science in aerospace technology program in the spring semester
- The program was developed in consultation with industry leaders such as NASA, Blue Origin, and Northrop Grumman
- Students will receive hands-on training in areas such as aircraft structure fabrication, mechanical systems, and electronics assembly
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% growth in jobs for aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians over the next decade
- The program will include embedded certificates for Aerospace Technician and Structural Technician
Introduction to the Program
Daytona State College has announced the introduction of a new academic program, an associate of science in aerospace technology, which is set to begin in the spring semester. The development of this program is the result of consultation with major industry leaders, including NASA, Blue Origin, and Northrop Grumman. This collaboration has ensured that the program is tailored to meet the specific needs of the aerospace industry, providing students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in this field. The program will offer students hands-on training in a range of areas, including aircraft structure fabrication using advanced composite materials, building and testing mechanical systems, wiring and troubleshooting electrical circuits, and working with analog and digital devices and electronics assembly.
Industry Partnerships and Job Outlook
The introduction of this program is also a response to the growing demand for skilled technicians in the aerospace industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians are projected to grow by 8% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing activity in the aerospace industry, particularly in Florida’s Space Coast, where Daytona Beach is located. The city is home to a fast-growing aerospace technology hub, and the college’s president, Tom LoBasso, believes that the program will provide graduates with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in this rapidly growing field.
Program Curriculum and Certificates
The associate of science in aerospace technology program will cover a range of topics, including industrial safety protocols, quality assurance practices, and project management. In addition to the core curriculum, the program will also include embedded certificates for Aerospace Technician and Structural Technician. These certificates will provide students with specialized skills and knowledge in these areas, making them more attractive to potential employers. The program’s emphasis on hands-on training and industry-relevant skills will ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make a meaningful contribution to the aerospace industry.
Economic Development and Industry Recruitment
The introduction of the aerospace technology program is also part of a broader effort to promote economic development in the region. Tom LoBasso, the president of Daytona State College, serves on the board of the Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation, which recruits companies to relocate to the county. LoBasso has been involved in the recruitment process for several companies, including Aura Aero, a French aircraft manufacturer that recently opened a facility at the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Research Park. The college’s new program will provide a pipeline of skilled technicians and engineers who can support the growth of the aerospace industry in the region, making it an attractive location for companies looking to relocate or expand their operations.
Conclusion
The introduction of the associate of science in aerospace technology program at Daytona State College is a significant development for the region’s aerospace industry. The program’s emphasis on hands-on training, industry-relevant skills, and collaboration with major industry leaders will ensure that graduates are well-prepared to succeed in this rapidly growing field. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an 8% growth in jobs for aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians over the next decade, the program is well-positioned to meet the needs of the industry and provide students with a range of career opportunities. As the aerospace industry continues to grow and evolve, the importance of programs like this one will only continue to increase, providing a skilled workforce that can support the development of new technologies and innovations.
