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Forsyth Tech Aviation Program Expands to Tackle Pilot Shortage

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/02 .. on-program-expands-to-tackle-pilot-shortage.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 0:29 GMT by Winston-Salem Journal
      Locales: North Carolina, UNITED STATES

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Forsyth Technical Community College's Aviation program is experiencing a period of significant expansion, strategically positioned to address a critical national shortage of skilled aviation professionals. The program isn't just growing in size; it's evolving to encompass a comprehensive range of training disciplines, from pilot certification to aircraft maintenance, making it a cornerstone of workforce development in the Piedmont Triad region.

Speaking on Thursday, February 12th, 2026, Brian Burroughs, Aviation program director, highlighted the acute need driving the program's growth. "We're in a sustained pilot shortage right now, and it's not a temporary blip. The demand is incredibly high across the nation, and Forsyth County is very much feeling the effects," Burroughs explained. This shortage, fueled by retirements, increased travel demand post-pandemic, and a lack of new entrants into the profession, has created a considerable opportunity for Forsyth Tech to step up and provide qualified personnel.

The program's response has been multi-faceted. Recognizing the limitations imposed by available resources, Forsyth Tech has invested in expanding its aircraft fleet. Recently added are a Piper Archer, a Cessna 172, and a Cessna 152, providing increased capacity for flight training and allowing for a broader spectrum of flight experiences for students. This investment is crucial, as practical flight hours are a non-negotiable requirement for pilot certification.

However, Forsyth Tech's approach extends beyond simply training pilots. Burroughs emphasized the program's commitment to developing a complete aviation workforce. "We're not just training pilots; we're also training mechanics and maintenance technicians. These roles are absolutely vital to the functioning of the aviation industry, and there's a significant demand for skilled technicians as well." The program offers comprehensive training pathways for Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs), preparing graduates for FAA certification and careers in aircraft repair and maintenance.

The success of the Aviation program isn't happening in a vacuum. Strategic partnerships with leading aviation companies like Piedmont Airlines and Republic Airways are playing a pivotal role. These collaborations aren't merely symbolic; they manifest as valuable internship opportunities for Forsyth Tech students, giving them real-world experience and a competitive edge in the job market. More importantly, these partnerships often translate into direct job offers for graduates, ensuring a smooth transition from education to employment.

Dr. Janet Spradlin, president of Forsyth Tech, proudly stated, "We're proud of what our Aviation program has accomplished. It's a testament to our commitment to workforce development and providing our students with the best possible education." The program's growth, with current enrollment exceeding 150 students, reflects a substantial increase over the past decade - a clear indication of its rising prominence and the increasing demand for its graduates.

The impact extends beyond individual career prospects. The availability of a skilled aviation workforce is a significant economic driver for Forsyth County and the broader region. Local aviation businesses benefit from a readily available pool of qualified candidates, reducing recruitment costs and ensuring operational efficiency. The program is also attracting new aviation-related businesses to the area, further bolstering the local economy.

The future looks bright for Forsyth Tech's Aviation program. Plans are underway to further expand curriculum offerings, potentially including drone technology training and advanced avionics certifications, to keep pace with the ever-evolving demands of the aviation industry. The program is also actively exploring opportunities to establish a dedicated aviation facility with state-of-the-art classrooms, hangars, and simulation equipment. This ambitious goal will require further investment and collaboration with industry partners, but it promises to solidify Forsyth Tech's position as a leading aviation training center.

The national pilot shortage is projected to continue for the foreseeable future, making programs like Forsyth Tech's Aviation program more crucial than ever. By providing high-quality, hands-on training and fostering strong industry connections, Forsyth Tech is not only shaping the careers of its students but also playing a vital role in securing the future of the aviation industry. For those interested in learning more about the program and exploring career opportunities, visit [ www.forsythtech.edu/aviation ].