GE Aerospace Foundation announced Monday it will help fund a North Carolina program supporting military members transition to civilian careers as aviation technicians.
The organization has pledged half a million to the Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America initiative. This money help fund a new aircraft and powerplant maintenance technician certificate program near Fort Bragg, training 90 people annually, including 40 in NC, starting 2026. The program will support service members, veterans, and National Guard and reserve members, equipping them with skills for advanced manufacturing roles.
“As we continue to advance the future of flight, it is critical that we invest in developing talent to help us build it and bring it to life,” said Christian Meisner, GE Aerospace Chief Human Resources Officer and GE Aerospace Foundation Chair. “We look forward to working alongside our partners to reinforce North Carolina’s long-standing leadership as the first in flight and keystone of the aviation manufacturing industry.”
The initiative addresses a critical industry shortage of aviation maintenance technicians with a recent report revealing a gap of 5,000 certified professionals.
“North Carolina’s skilled workers help make North Carolina the future of flight. This partnership will give veterans the opportunity to learn the aviation maintenance skills they need for good-paying jobs. We’re grateful for GE Aerospace’s continued commitment to North Carolina,” said North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein.
This effort builds on GE Aerospace’s broader workforce development commitments, including a $30 million program to train 10,000 skilled workers over five years. In 2024, GE Aerospace also provided Wayne Community College with funding for 20 students in the Aviation Systems Technology Program.
