Aviation education is reaching unprecedented levels in western Pennsylvania.
When considering aviation, many people focus on the pilots. But who supports the pilots?” questioned Leon Haynes, the founder and CEO of Hosanna House. “The mechanics, the aeronautics experts, the airport managers—these are just some of the various job opportunities we hope people of all backgrounds will be involved in, learn about, and experience.
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The Aviation Technology and Training Center in Wilkinsburg was established by Hosanna House and provides a location for youth to gain practical experience in various fields within the aviation sector.
The center provides a program across various schools, equipping students with the necessary training for the Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Drone Certification.
That’s not a credential that anyone can issue; they must obtain this certification through the FAA,” Haynes stated. “This means they can now work for a roofing company, a contractor, or even do photography—so many commercial opportunities they couldn’t pursue if they only had a small drone for personal use.
On Thursday evening, Hosanna House concluded Black History Month with an event hosted by Sheldon Ingram from Pittsburgh’s Action News 4.
The initiative showcased the organization’s present efforts in aviation workforce development and potential future prospects, made possible by a new collaboration with the nonprofit group, Aerium.
“Here’s what this collaboration signifies going forward. Hosanna House now has immediate access to Aerium’s state-wide network of business partners, universities, career technical centers, and government organizations,” said Glenn Ponas, Executive Director of Aerium.
Hosanna House has been newly recognized as Aerium’s western Pennsylvania headquarters for aviation and aerospace workforce development, referred to as Aerium West.
Ponas revealed three new projects under the collaboration, such as the introduction of a drone training course for educators along with a two-tier drone pilot certification program.
Finally, the organizations are broadening their offerings to incorporate adult learning opportunities.
During the event, the audience also learned about real-world insights from Sean White, a First Officer at Delta Airlines. The pilot based in Atlanta, who hails from West Mifflin, discussed why he thinks diversity is important.
“If you don’t encounter someone who resembles you achieving it, you might not believe you can reach that peak, whatever it may be. Whether that’s becoming a professional athlete or an airline pilot,” White said to Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 reporter Jordan Cioppa.
The gathering concluded in a room where history and creativity intersect. The Tuskegee Airmen Museum, located within the CATT area, showcases a mobile display from the Smithsonian Institution that recounts the tale of the nation’s initial Black military aviators.
“We’re honoring Black History Month, and more specifically, we’re recognizing the individuals who have paved the way, with the Tuskegee Airmen being a crucial and impactful group that shaped American history,” Haynes said.
The final day to enter the museum at no cost is Saturday during Black History Month.
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READ THE FULL STORY:Hosanna House collaborating with Aerium to enhance aviation education prospects
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