The 2023 Inaugural Aerium Summit provided a dynamic platform for students interested in aviation, aeronautics, drone operation, defense, and related maintenance careers. With immersive experiences and hands-on activities, attendees had the opportunity to engage with simulators, introductory training sessions, and industry leaders, and explore a range of employment opportunities facilitated by various certifications.
Before the Summit:
Dr. Larry Nulton, Chairman of Aerium, emphasized, "At this event, school administrators, students, and industry stakeholders will gain firsthand exposure to the abundant aviation and maintenance career resources made available through the exceptional efforts of our partner organizations. Our vision of cultivating a next-generation hub of aviation professionals right here in our backyard will be vividly showcased."
Brother Marius Strom, Director of the Center for Aviation Maintenance and Education at Saint Francis University, highlighted the progress achieved through collaboration, stating, "Thanks to this collaboration, our aviation program's capabilities have expanded rapidly. The Aerium Summit will provide a platform for us to demonstrate the remarkable strides we have taken in delivering invaluable hands-on training. We are particularly thrilled about the recent donation of a CRJ200 airframe from SkyWest Airlines, which further enhances our training facilities."
Recognizing the significant workforce challenges facing the aviation industry, Anthony McCloskey, PennDOT's Bureau of Aviation Director, emphasized the importance of events like the Aerium Summit, stating, "The aviation industry is grappling with an immense retirement wave among pilots and technicians, compounded by the adverse impact of the pandemic. We need more collaborative groups and events like these to address these challenges head-on."
