Navigating the Future: West Star Aviation AcademyWelcomes Its Newest Graduates
East Alton, IL – April 17, 2025 – West Star Aviation is excited to announce the graduation of its second cohort from
the West Star Aviation Academy (WSAA), equipping 22 aspiring Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMT) with the
skills necessary to thrive in the aviation industry. This event marks another milestone in our dedicated efforts to
tackle the ongoing technician shortage and enrich the workforce landscape.
During this year’s ceremony, Brian Bauwens, Vice President/General Manager of the East Alton Location, took a
moment to recognize an extraordinary achievement by three of our graduates. These students have not only
completed all of their written exams but also passed their oral and practical testing—earning their FAA A License
before today’s graduation ceremony. This accomplishment speaks volumes about their dedication, discipline, and
drive. We are incredibly proud of them for their hard work, determination, and professionalism. They’ve set a new
benchmark for future classes to follow.
Launched in collaboration with Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) in 2023, WSAA stands as a benchmark for
innovative aviation education. With a unique blend of comprehensive classroom instruction and hands-on training,
apprentices undergo 7.5 months of program training, allowing for a faster transition into fully qualified roles
without the financial burdens often associated with traditional education models.
Katie Johnson, Chief People Officer, shared her perspective on this significant achievement: “We are thrilled to
celebrate the graduation of our second WSAA cohort. This program not only empowers individuals to kickstart
their careers in aviation but also ensures that we have a strong pipeline of skilled technicians ready to meet the
demands of our industry. By investing in our workforce through innovative training, we are building a brighter
future for both West Star Aviation and the aviation community as a whole.”
Brian Bauwens added, “When we recognized the workforce shortage in aviation, we knew we needed a plan to
tackle it. Initiatives like WSAA allow us to do more than just fill technician vacancies; we’re nurturing talent that
will drive the industry forward. Bringing these skilled individuals into the West Star workforce is incredible. These
individuals emerge from our program energized, enthusiastic, and fully prepared to contribute to our team.”
The success of WSAA is a testament to the collaborative efforts of community partners and educational
institutions. Graduates will begin their careers working alongside experienced technicians, benefiting from
additional training opportunities and real-world experience in various aircraft maintenance environments.
As we look to the future, West Star Aviation is committed to continuing the recruitment and selection of dedicated
individuals for upcoming WSAA cohorts.
