Textron Aviation is investing in the expansion of WSU Tech’s aviation training programmes as the lead contributor to a new facility at the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) campus in Wichita, Kansas.
The NCAT expansion project will add approximately 85,500ft² of instructional space and is designed to serve an additional 1,450 students and trainees within its first three years.
The facility will feature key training areas including emerging aviation training centres, advanced manufacturing training centres, a professional pilot training centre and hangar and a high school Aviation Maintenance Technology Academy. It will also serve as a hub for industry partners to train and upskill their existing workforce, to support employer readiness across the country. Construction is scheduled to begin this month, with the new facilities expected to be operational and welcoming students by January 2027.
In recognition of the support, WSU Tech will name its new training hangar the Cessna + Beechcraft by Textron Aviation Hangar.
“Textron Aviation’s gift underscores our ongoing commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce and supporting the long-term growth of the aviation industry,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “WSU Tech graduates are an essential part of our talent pipeline, and this expansion ensures more students are prepared to join us in designing and delivering the best aviation experience for our customers.”
“As a launchpad for the next generation of industry leaders, this expansion is an investment in our future,” said Maggie Topping, SVP of human resources and communications. “Textron Aviation is honoured to support an initiative that cultivates talent through high-quality training and encourages students to achieve their dreams.”
