ATLANTA — Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is launching a new 'earn while you learn' apprenticeship program.
The new career development initiative will first focus in the area of facilities maintenance, offering a paid opportunity to learn on the job and gain skills ranging from HVAC and welding to electrical.
"We sometimes call this the heartbeat of the airport," Chris Jackson, assistant general manager of facilities maintenance, explained. "All the maintenance, five runways, taxi ways, the ramps...we operate in the background but we're an integral part of air travel."
It's an idea that intrigued Darian Fowler, a participant in the program.
"It seems like exciting work, and there's a lot I can learn," Fowler told 11Alive.
Atlanta Technical College professors will be on-site to teach classes, while airport officials said every apprentice will be matched with a mentor to support their professional development.
"What we know is that there is a nationwide shortage of skilled workers," Elise Durham, assistance general manager for business diversity, told 11Alive. "So for Hartsfield-Jackson to come up with this apprenticeship program to grow our own talent is fantastic."
Airport leaders said the program is an opportunity to not only develop talent internally but also focus efforts in departments needing additional support.
"That's our direct pathway to ensuring that we have a skilled workforce in those areas, especially in our high demand areas," Corliss Davenport, program management officer for the airport, added. “I am thankful to all our partners who made this program possible. We are excited to begin the work and provide the resources for our apprentices to accelerate their careers.”
The program, which ranges from two to three years, is open to new employees but leaders hope to utilize the apprenticeship opportunity to elevate the careers of existing staff, plus reach students in nearby high schools.
"Most [students] don't realize there are so many opportunities in the area of aviation," Durham said. "This is a beast of an operation, so for high school students to be able to learn and earn and set themselves on a career path is just amazing."
For Fowler, the opportunity was just too good to pass up.
"Why not come to the city, have a full time 40-hour workweek," Fowler said, "but also be able to go to school and learn a discipline and pick up a trade you can have for the rest of your days."
To apply online for these apprenticeships, please visit www.atlantaga.gov and click on Employment Opportunities.