Last week, our Air Operations Maintenance Recruitment team caught some desert vibes at the annual Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) Conference, held this year in Tucson, Arizona (TUS). This eagerly anticipated maintenance conference brought together Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs), organizations, employers, product distributors, recruiters, AMT schools and ATEC members to network and learn in the Sonoran Desert.
Putting the “C” in ATEC
The “C” in ATEC stands for Council, as the Aviation Technician Education Council is a group of voluntary members who work together to promote and support AMT education, of which Envoy is a member. Formed in 1961, their work has helped with the development of the aviation workforce below the wing. Throughout the year, ATEC hosts events, provides resources, and promotes careers in aviation maintenance.
“The best part about ATEC, for me, is that it’s a member-driven organization,” said ATEC President and Dean of Aviation and Manufacturing at WSU Tech, Jim Hall. “We come together for the betterment of all. We have a pathway for educators, administrators, and businesses — and the overall goal is to connect and meet the workforce needs of tomorrow by providing the best part 147 mechanics out there.”
The Nuts & Bolts About the Conference
The 2024 conference kicked off with a new educator professional development course called ATEC Academy. The exclusive, two-day course addressed the challenges faced when recruiting and retaining AMT instructors.
Team Envoy was happy to return to ATEC this year as an event sponsor and celebrated by hosting a luncheon for the Board. At the Envoy booth, our Air Operations Maintenance Recruitment team passed out swag, answered questions and networked with AMT schools.
“We are here connecting with people,” said Air Operations Recruiter, Angel Arrazola. “Our goal in attending ATEC is to talk to AMT school representatives, offer our services for their students, and tell them about Envoy and what opportunities await them once they get their Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Licenses and join the Company.”
Fueling Success
Some of the other great things that happened at ATEC were the panel discussions, networking opportunities, and the fun evening events, like the evening reception at the Pima Air & Space Museum.
This year’s conference covered a variety of topics, including elevating high school aviation education, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) testing and preparing the next generation of AMTs — just to name a few. The conference also showcased the latest tools, equipment, and technologies used in aircraft maintenance. Leading manufacturers and suppliers participated in the event, and provided attendees with hands-on demonstrations and upcoming product updates to improve how AMT work is performed.
Propelling Aviation Maintenance Technicians to New Horizons
For employers, aircraft maintenance schools, tool manufacturers and upcoming A&P-certified technicians, ATEC 2024 is a must-attend event for the Tech Ops side of our aviation community. By attending this conference, you can gain valuable insights, forge important connections, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the aviation maintenance profession.
Can’t get enough of ATEC 2024? Check out their 2024 Fly-in event later this year in Washington, D.C. or become a member and be part of the team changing the aviation maintenance industry.
If you have your A&P Licenses and are ready to join the Envoy team, visit envoyair.com/mechanics to review the bonuses currently offered and apply today.