By: Tyler Myers
On Friday, November 8, the aviation students were invited to both the Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport’s air traffic control tower and a state police aviation unit base. While they were at both venues, they were exposed to job opportunities in the broad field of aviation and were educated on what a normal day consists of for workers in those fields.
At the Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport, the group of ten were introduced to the inner workings of an air traffic control tower, including both the communications room and the radar room. In both rooms they witnessed the control tower operators monitoring and directing air traffic both incoming and outgoing. Amazingly, after completing the aviation program at our school, the students are able to work in the air traffic control towers without any additional schooling.
Furthermore, the aviation students were also invited to visit a Pennsylvania State Police aviation unit and learn about the roles the pilots have in the state police force. The pilots spoke to the students about the kinds of technology they use and how they act as reconnaissance using cameras and their viewpoint in the sky. The students were also educated on the critical use of helicopters in providing transportation of supplies and people across long distances.
Both trips served as incredible opportunities for the aviation students to be introduced to potential future careers in the aviation industry. The students are able to take the flight simulation training and education they receive in the specialized high school aviation program and enter an industry that is receiving applicants with open arms. The class hopes to indulge in many more opportunities such as these, and further explore where their future may lead.-
