The U.S. Department of Defense has extended its partnership with Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University to continue the highly successful Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Skillbridge program, which helps service members transition into high-demand, well-paying aviation maintenance careers.

Beginning with a cohort of 12 Marines in 2019, the AMT Skillbridge program has since enrolled 831 students. The program, which connects graduates with top aerospace industry partners, boasts a job placement rate of over 90 percent.

“This unique education and career program has transitioned service members from defending our nation to keeping aircraft and the skies safe,” said Dr. John Watret, chancellor of Embry‑Riddle – Worldwide. “Embry‑Riddle is proud to continue to partner with the DoD and industry to help service members pursue rewarding careers in the aviation maintenance field.”

Students in the program earn two critical certifications: an Aviation Maintenance Technology Part 65 Certificate from Embry‑Riddle and a Boeing 737 Familiarization Certificate from industry partner AAR Corp.

In addition to earning the certifications, graduates are guaranteed an interview with one of the program’s industry partners.

Army veteran Isaiah Cortese, a graduate of the AMT Skillbridge at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, credited the program for the opportunity to learn a new trade, build industry connections and achieve financial stability. Introduced to AAR Corp. at the program, he has worked at the global aerospace and defense firm for the past three years.

At “AAR,” he said, “I have had the incredible experience of working as a technician in cabin, airframe and powerplant, and research and engineering roles. None of this would have been possible without the SkillBridge program.”

Ryan Goertzen, vice president of Workforce Development at AAR Corp., said that the company has “worked closely with Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University every step of the way to help support them as their premier hiring partner in the program.”

The AMT Skillbridge program is open to active-duty military who are within 180 days of separation or retirement. The nine-week program is offered three times a year at six military installations.

The program is held at three Army bases: Fort Campbell, Kentucky; Fort Carson, Colorado; and Fort Bragg. The program also operates at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina; Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia; and at a site near Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California. Service members who are not located near these military installations can participate virtually. The program is also open to veterans and eligible military spouses.

Approximately 200,000 service members leave active duty each year and transition back to civilian life. For those separating or retiring from the military, the SkillBridge program bridges the transition into the aviation and aerospace sector.

The program’s industry partners appreciate the skills and values our nation’s service members bring to their companies, said Angela C. Albritton, director of Military Relations and Strategic Initiatives at Embry‑Riddle.

“We have been working closely with our industry partners since we launched the program,” she said, “and the collaboration has contributed greatly to its success.”

Learn more about the AMT Skillbridge program and request additional information.