Aviation Technical Services Advances Missouri’s Aviation Workforce
For more than 50 years, Aviation Technical Services (ATS) has provided aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. Its capabilities include heavy maintenance, aircraft modification, component repair and engineering support.
Aviation Technical Services opened its Kansas City facility in 2014 after a yearlong location search. Company leaders said the decision came down to people. The region offered an experienced workforce that could support the company’s growth.
The Challenge
Preparing mechanics for specialized aviation careers
More recently, the company made a facility investment for AIRBUS aircraft testing equipment and tooling. Making a capital investment is just one of the eligibility criteria for the Missouri One Start Customized Training program.
Aircraft maintenance requires technical skills, hands-on experience and knowledge of strict safety standards. Aviation Technical Services needed a consistent way to prepare new mechanics for this work.
The company also wanted to expand access to aviation careers. Its programs serve graduating high school seniors, workers entering the field, displaced workers and military veterans moving into civilian employment.
To support these goals, Aviation Technical Services adopted a “Grow Our Own” approach. The company focused on developing maintenance technicians from within its workforce.
The Solution
Combining instruction with paid, on-the-job experience
Aviation Technical Services operates the ATS Academy, an internal training program for apprentice airframe mechanics. Participants receive classroom instruction and on-the-job experience.
ATS used Missouri One Start funds to expand its apprentice mechanic workforce and provide specialized instruction in aircraft structural repair.
The company serves as the apprenticeship sponsor, employer, recruiter, and trainer. It also provides the supplemental instruction required by the program.
Apprenticeships lasts 18 to 24 months. Employees earn wages while they learn and may pursue certification as aircraft mechanics after completing the program.
At its Missouri operation, apprenticeships are registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. Aviation Technical Services also works with Northland Career Center in Platte City to support apprenticeship opportunities.
The Results
Expanding skills and supporting advancement
Training gives apprentice mechanics additional skills for aircraft maintenance work and helps employees take on greater responsibility.
Participants connect classroom instruction with work performed in an aircraft maintenance setting. They gain experience, earn wages and work toward mechanic certification.
Aviation Technical Services also provides development programs for aviation mechanic positions through the inspection level. This creates a clear path for employees who want to advance.
Together, the ATS Academy, registered apprenticeship and Missouri One Start funding help the company prepare workers for specialized aviation careers. They also support the company’s operations and the greater Kansas City workforce.
In Their Own Words
Supporting careers and company growth
“ATS appreciates its partnership with Missouri One Start, which allows us to further invest in our apprentice mechanics and move them further along in their careers.”
“With Missouri One Start funding, ATS is able to grow our business and our workforce, creating a foundation for our future while giving opportunity and supporting the economic growth of the greater Kansas City area.”
About Missouri One Start:
Missouri One Start is a Division within the Department of Economic Development. Its training programs are customized to specific business needs, with flexibility in how training is delivered. Missouri One Start also provides support for interns, apprentices, and the earning of industry-recognized credentials under its upskilling programs. Eligibility criteria apply to all programs. To learn more, please visit the Training Programs Outline Page
