WCC aviation program open house Friday
By From staff reports
Published in News on November 2, 2011 1:46 PM
The aviation systems technology program at Wayne Community College will celebrate its facilities renovation with an open house Friday at the Wayne Executive Jetport north of Goldsboro.
The event, from 10 a.m. until noon, will include tours and demonstrations of its classroom building and hangar. Visitors can see materials, technology and equipment, which ranges from instrument and systems simulators to engines and planes.
A $550,000 Golden Leaf Foundation grant was used to incorporate state-of-the-art practice equipment into the program, which teaches the practices and technologies used in aircraft manufacturing and maintenance, repair and overhaul industries.
Among the upgrades were the addition of "smart" technology to classrooms and new equipment such as engine run stands and diagnostic systems trainers, creation of a state-of-the-art electrical/electronics lab and refinishing the hangar floors.
Gary Simmons, aviation instructor, said the grant helped advance the program to the next level.
"It is something Wayne County should be proud of and we're looking forward to letting everyone in to see it," he said.
The aviation systems technology program provides instruction in general aircraft maintenance, including airframe and power plant and prepares students for FAA examinations. The program was established in 1968, and was the first in the state's community college system.
The airport also will host a skills competition, seminars and practice opportunities for pilots as well as free airplane rides and activities for children.