Bombardier has announced the launch of its FastTrack training program in Hartford, Connecticut, marking a significant expansion of its workforce development initiatives in the United States. The program, developed in collaboration with Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), is now being brought to Hartford in partnership with CT Aero Tech, part of the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS). This initiative aims to create a streamlined pathway for aircraft maintenance technicians to obtain their Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification.
Program Details and Eligibility
The FastTrack program is designed for candidates with at least 18 months of hands-on industry experience in either Airframe or Powerplant disciplines, or 30 months of combined experience. Participants undergo a two- to four-week accelerated classroom refresher course focusing on FAA written examinations in General, Airframe, and Powerplant subjects. This is followed by an additional two weeks of hands-on instruction to prepare for the practical evaluation. The program ensures that skilled professionals can efficiently advance their careers while supporting Bombardier's growing operational needs.
Commitment to Workforce Development
Paul J. Thompson, Vice President of Service Centres at Bombardier, emphasized the company's dedication to building a highly skilled maintenance workforce. “The FastTrack program reflects Bombardier’s continued investment in building a highly skilled maintenance workforce to support our growing service operations,” he said. “This initiative not only supports experienced professionals who want to advance their careers but also helps strengthen our capacity to deliver exceptional OEM maintenance services to our customers around the world.”
The program highlights the collaborative efforts between Bombardier, CTECS’ CT Aero Tech, and state collaborator AdvanceCT. John Bourdeaux, President & CEO of AdvanceCT, noted, “Bombardier’s decision to bring its FastTrack program to Hartford is a strong vote of confidence in Connecticut’s aerospace workforce and training ecosystem. By partnering with CT Aero Tech to expand pathways to FAA certification, this initiative will help more residents access high-quality aviation careers while ensuring Bombardier can continue to access the skilled talent they need to grow and compete.”
Expanding Opportunities Across the US
Bombardier plans to replicate the FastTrack program in other service locations across the United States, further expanding opportunities for skilled professionals. Dr. Alice Pritchard, Executive Director of CTECS, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “CTECS is very pleased to support Bombardier in launching the FastTrack program at CT Aero Tech. This partnership allows CTECS to maximize the use of our state facilities, engage expert instructors in providing skills training, and create accelerated pathways into high-demand careers with Connecticut companies. Together, we’re preparing and connecting skilled talent to the aviation industry’s growing workforce needs.”
The FastTrack program represents a strategic investment in the future of aviation maintenance, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified technicians to meet the demands of Bombardier’s expanding fleet and service operations. By accelerating the certification process, the program not only benefits individual career growth but also strengthens the overall competitiveness of the US aerospace industry.
