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About Aviation Discovery Day

Welcome to Aviation Discovery Day, the first-ever event of its kind was held at Reid-Hillview Airport on April 23, 2023. Are you a high school student looking for a career path that offers great pay and job security? Look no further than the aviation industry!

As graduating seniors from San Jose State University's aviation department, we understand the benefits of pursuing a career in aviation. That's why we're excited to host Aviation Discovery Day.

This event is your chance to meet and mingle with representatives from various aviation sectors, including airport operations, flight schools, aircraft maintenance, airline and corporate pilots, and electric and drone aircraft manufacturers. Learn about the plentiful high-paying jobs available in these sectors, and find out how you can get started on the path to a successful aviation career right out of high school.

In addition to meeting industry professionals, Aviation Discovery Day will also feature free food, prize drawings, and displays of various aircraft. Representatives from San Jose State University's Precision Flight Team, SJSU Chapter of Women in Aviation, and their aviation fraternity will also be present.

Join us on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from Noon to 4 p.m. at SJSU Reid-Hillview Hangar located at 2105 Swift Ave, San Jose, CA 95148.

Bring your parents or guardian and discover the exciting opportunities waiting for you in the aviation industry!

Meet Aviation Industry Representatives

Aviation industry representatives will be present on November 18th to introduce a variety of career paths in aviation, many of which do not require a four-year college degree. You can meet industry experts who will share their experiences and answer questions. Learn about careers such as air traffic control, aircraft mechanics, piloting, airport operations, and even military aviation with salaries ranging from $66,000 to $179,980 per year and job security.

If you're interested in a career as an air traffic controller, you'll play a crucial role in ensuring air traffic safety and efficiency. With a median annual wage of $179,980, this career offers excellent pay and job demand.

As an aircraft mechanic, you'll work on some of the coolest and most advanced machines in the world, with opportunities for advancement and other careers within the aviation industry. With a annual wage of $84,500, this career is a great option, and you don't need a four-year college degree.

If you're interested in becoming a pilot, you can enjoy a comfortable salary, job security, and opportunities for career growth, with a starting salary of around $167,060 per year.

Airport operations is another exciting career path, with salaries ranging from around $66,000 to $132,000 and job security due to the growing aviation industry.

In addition to the civilian aviation industry, there are also opportunities for lucrative and secure careers in aviation within the military. The military provides extensive training and advancement opportunities for pilots, air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, and other aviation-related roles. Military pilots can earn a base salary of over $100,000 per year, with additional allowances and bonuses.

Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to learn about aviation industry careers and connect with industry leaders. Aviation Discovery Day is the perfect place to get inspired and discover new possibilities. See you there!

Check out this video of Aviation Discovery Day Spring '23.

If any of the presented career paths sparked your interest, please let us know, via the form below, and we will be happy to provide you with more information.

We're grateful to the following list of aviation representatives who made Aviation Discovery Day Spring '23 a big success.

  • Wendy Hales Mora, Southwest Airlines
  • Edgar Mora, SkyWest Airlines
  • Charles Harris, Corporate Pilot
  • Travis Orloff, Whisk Aero
  • Tara Samuels, NASA Ames
  • Gavilan College for Aviation Maintenance & Technology
  • College of Alameda Aviation Maintenance & Technology
  • Rosalyn Bond, San Jose International Airport
  • Pamela Svrdlln, Hayward Executive Airport
  • Gretchen Kelly, San Mateo County Airports
  • Lauren Benge, Air Traffic Controller
  • Southwest Airlines Airport Operations
  • San José State University
  • EAA Chapter 20
  • SJSU WAI
  • SJSU Alpha Eta Rho
  • SJSU Precision Flight Team
  • Trade Winds Aviation

The venue

San Jose State University's hangar at Reid-Hillview Airport, is a state-of-the-art facility that serves as a hub for the university's aviation program. The hangar houses a fleet of modern aircraft, including Cessna 172s and Piper PA-44s, which are used for flight training and research. The facility also features advanced training simulators and classrooms equipped with the latest technology, providing students with an immersive and interactive learning experience. The hangar is staffed by experienced aviation professionals who are dedicated to providing the highest level of training and support to students pursuing careers in aviation.

SJSU Aviation

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