Sparked by aviation 2025 AVIATION CAREER FORUM INSPIRE FUTURES

This fall I had one of those experiences of clarity when it all makes sense. We’ve been hosting the career forum for 12 years now, and over the yers it has had its ups and downs.

Back when Alaska Airlines was a sponsor and they and other other major carriers were in the hiring mode, our event was the place to be if you were interested in the airlines. With over 500 pilot hopefuls ine year were were able to tag on over 150 students from area high schools to attend the carrer forum sessions with them. It was like a giant mentorship program. Resumes in hand, best suit ever and kids in jeans and flying dreams being hatched in their minds.

Fast forward a decade later and we have a steady flow of students and pilot hopefuls -- it hasn’t gotten back to the pre-COVID zenith, but slow and steady we build our reputaion and stay the course offering opprtunties for career hopefuls to network, find resources and explore different paths to reach their goals.

Ten years is a long time. Long enough to build a career. last Otober I ran into one of those very students that was sparked by the NWAC Career Forum. There he met folks who guided him through the scholarship process and mentored him, got him flying, kept him connected and engaged. And that made it all worthwhile. We may not change the whole world but if we can help a few kids find their way to this amazing journey, we’ve made a difference.

If you know a student, or adult for that matter, who is interested in a career in aviation we want them to come check out the show.

If you yourself would benefit from the opportunity to network with colleges, aviation facilities and airlines or simply want to know what it takes to get your pilot’s licence. Come to the NW Aviation Conference and Trade Show. You will find an incredible welcoming community of pilots, educators and enthusiasts who will welcome you and encourage you on your journey to the skies.

INTRO TO AVIATION CAREER FORUM

The WAA is honored to once again host sessions and exhibits dedicated to aviation careers. Along with airlines, businesses, colleges and government agencies, this represents the cumulative efforts from all aspects of the industry.

“As an aviation non-profit, we are concerned about our industry’s future,” said Jamelle Garcia, Executive Director of the Washington Aviation Association, “hosting this event is an opportunity for new and experienced aviators, and provides resources to those who need to get to the next level.” The presentations are led by aviation operators and educators including airline, colleges faculty, training facilities and airports.

Introductory sessions serve the needs of high school groups and parent/student registrations – concurrently seminar tracks serve all experience levels –maintenance, military and airline – all encouraging participation and mentorship. There is one introductory workshop each day of the Conference.

This year the event again thanks John Swedburg, Big Bend Community College, as well as the team at Rainier Flight and Safety in Motion Flight Center who have offered up their instructional support for the Career Forum.

Aviation Career Key Seminar

Saturday, February 22, 9:30 AM – 11:30 PM | South Foyer

Sunday, February 23, 10:15 AM - 12:15 PM | South Foyer

John Swedburg, BBCC, Faculty Emeritus, leads an interactive workshop for students, parents and “new to aviation” participants through an overview of how to get from point A to point B,C, or D - no matter what your aviation dreams are! Hear first-hand from those in the industry and learn their “how I got there” stories. Attendees will leave session with questions answered and the resources to seek answers to design a career path in aviation.