Community Generosity Lifts Aviation Training to New Heights at Massachusetts High School
A remarkable act of community generosity is poised to revolutionize aviation education in Massachusetts. Local aviation enthusiast, Benjamin “Ben” Surner, has donated a fully operational Cessna 310 multi-engine aircraft to the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program at Westfield Technical Academy in Westfield, Mass.
The airworthy twin-engine aircraft provides students at the career-technical high school with hands-on access to a complex aircraft system, a resource previously unavailable in their curriculum. As stated by Galen Wilson, Chair of the school’s Aviation Department, the Cessna 310 will offer students practical training in aircraft maintenance, inspection procedures, engine systems, avionics, and multi-engine operational components. This aligns directly with FAA curriculum standards.
“Tremendous opportunity for our students to gain access to twin engine aircraft,” said Career Technical Education Director Peter Taloumis. Westfield Public Schools Superintendent Stefan Czaporowski lauded the donation as “transformational,” highlighting its role in preparing students for careers in the aviation maintenance industry.
Westfield Technical Academy’s AMT program holds the unique distinction of being the only high school program in the United States authorized to offer students the opportunity to earn both airframe and powerplant (A&P) certifications — a credential typically reserved for post-secondary aviation schools. The addition of the Cessna 310 further solidifies the program’s reputation as one of the premier high school aviation training programs in the country.
Source: Aero-News Network – Westfield Tech Aviation Program Receives Cessna 310