Developing an Aviation Technical Workforce

ARSA Position

Along with other job sectors, the maintenance industry faces a shortage of qualified, trained technical workers. Congress must devote resources to training and hiring a new generation of workers in order to maintain the high quality of the U.S. aviation industry. Congress needs to take action to prevent an industry-wide shortage.

Discussion

Industries across the nation are facing a shortage of skilled technical workers, but ARSA’s members have been hit especially hard: Approximately two-thirds of the respondents to ARSA’s 2009 member survey reported having trouble finding skilled technical workers. Survey respondents ranked the technical worker shortage as the single greatest threat facing the maintenance industry.

It is important to note that, despite the national economic downturn, the aviation maintenance industry remains poised for growth. ARSA’s 2009 member survey revealed that over 30% of respondents planned on hiring new employees or adding new positions in the next 12 months. As job creation and stability is a top national priority, the aviation maintenance industry stands to benefit from new initiatives proposed on Capitol Hill and the White House.

The recent efforts by Congress and the White House to address the nation’s need for technical training are a good starting point; but more must be done to address the skilled-worker shortage. ARSA is doing its part by allowing employers to advertise on www.arsa.org, which offers a way for employers and workers to connect. As Congress investigates aviation safety and maintenance, we must remind them that resources are needed to recruit and maintain skilled workers.