Northern Nevada’s Push to Train the Next Generation of Aviation Workers

The aviation industry in Northern Nevada isn’t just about planes taking off and landing. It’s about the people behind every flight, drone delivery, and piece of equipment that keeps the skies moving. With major companies like Boeing and Airbus expecting steady growth over the next two decades, the region has a chance to become a leader in aerospace—but only if it has enough skilled workers to fill the jobs. Right now, airlines and drone companies face a shortage of pilots, mechanics, and drone operators, which could lead to canceled flights and lost opportunities if not addressed soon. Northern Nevada is already making moves to stay ahead. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport is expanding with a $1 billion upgrade, and local schools are introducing aviation and drone programs to students as young as middle school. The George W. Gillemot Foundation is playing a big role, funding new programs like the Aviation Academy at the Academy of Arts, Careers and Technology and a $36 million gift to the University of Nevada, Reno to create an aerospace engineering department. Even middle schoolers are getting hands-on experience with drones, learning skills that could lead to careers in search and rescue, environmental monitoring, and more.But why does this matter beyond just jobs? Aviation isn’t just a career path—it’s a way to keep Northern Nevada competitive in a growing industry. If the region doesn’t train enough workers now, other areas will fill the gap, taking the economic benefits with them. The foundation’s efforts focus on early education, scholarships, and direct job placement to make sure students don’t just dream about aviation—they live it. The bigger picture? Northern Nevada has the right pieces in place: a booming industry, expanding infrastructure, and strong community support. The question is whether the region will use this moment to build a workforce that can sustain growth for years to come. Events like the upcoming "Soaring to New Heights" fair aim to inspire students and show parents how aviation can shape their futures.