Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) unveiled its new Aviation Landing Zone at the college’s Williams campus Jan. 20 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by industry partners, community members, faculty, staff and students. Located in Bluford Hall, the new space is a lounge designed to provide aircraft maintenance students a space to study, relax and socialize between classes.
The Aviation Landing Zone is the latest development of the partnership between CGCC and Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. Gulfstream donated aircraft cabin furniture and other materials for the space.
CGCC’s collaboration with Gulfstream began in 2021 when Gulfstream announced plans to build an all-new service center at Mesa Gateway Airport. Over the years, Gulfstream has partnered with CGCC to help develop and train the local workforce for careers with Gulfstream. Since 2023, the company has hired 50 CGCC aircraft maintenance graduates.
“Many of our aircraft maintenance students are already employed in positions in the aviation sector, working long hours, supporting families and continuing to pursue their education,” said CJ Wurster, CGCC president. “This Aviation Landing Zone area supports the whole student experience and we expect it will be well-used and loved over the years.”
“One of the many ways we invest in our community is by creating opportunities for job growth and career paths,” said Robert Medina, senior director of service center operations, Gulfstream Aerospace. “That’s why we continue to collaborate with Chandler-Gilbert. Through this partnership, technicians have completed more than 10,000 hours of on-the-job training. Today we are proud to support the new Aviation Landing Zone where students will be able to study, relax and enjoy an environment where they can nurture their critical thinking and continued success through learning.”
In addition to workforce development, Gulfstream has also supported the college in the form of emergency funding grants and toolbox program for students, which provides them with the necessary tools to successfully complete the program.
For more information about CGCC’s aircraft maintenance technology degrees and certificates, visit https://www.cgc.edu/degrees-certificates/aircraft-maintenance-technology.