The Newark Board of Education (NBOE) approved a strategic partnership with the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) of Teterboro, New Jersey. AIM is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and annually graduates hundreds of aviation maintenance technicians. NBOE students will be allowed to start coursework in this high-demand field involving aircraft systems that can lead to careers as aircraft mechanics, avionics technicians, and aircraft inspectors. “The district continues to identify sectors with critical labor shortages and partners with industry professionals to provide programs and opportunities today, preparing our students for careers tomorrow,” announced Superintendent Roger León.
While air traffic has not fully reached pre-pandemic levels, airports worldwide continue to deal with labor shortages that impact every level of the aviation industry. Last summer’s travel season was one of the worst in history. “Plagued by delays and cancellations for varying reasons, this industry needs an injection of new high-skilled professionals, and AIM, in partnership with the Newark Board of Education, is prepared to do just that,” shared De’Kylen Jordan, Campus Executive Director of Aviation Institute of Maintenance. With the recent expansion at Newark International Airport and its proximity to our schools, we know the opportunities are real,” added NBOE President Dawn Haynes.
The partnership with AIM will launch this spring for eligible graduating seniors, with plans to expand for full-time enrollment of NBOE students at AIM. Students will be immersed in all aspects of the industry through extended learning experiences at local airports and guest speakers. “The aviation industry has many opportunities for career advancement, and we intend to make them available to our students,” said Superintendent Roger León.
The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The district currently enrolls over 38,000 students in 62 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and returning to local control in 2018, the district has opened eight new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership, with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming years.
To receive more information about the NBOE x AIM partnership, please visit NBOE & AIM Partnership
