Estimated reading time 3 minutes, 16 seconds.
A new book for the next generation of aviation professionals will be launched at the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (WWFC) on April 8, 2018, at 1 p.m.
The book, Fundamentals of International Aviation, is by Dr. Suzanne Kearns, professor of aviation at the University of Waterloo. Kearns will do a short talk about the book and will be available for signing afterwards.
Sustained growth in in air travel, combined with the retiring of experienced air industry personnel, has opened the door for young professionals to embark on a career in an exciting industry.
To inspire and prepare these new specialists, Kearns introduces Fundamentals of International Aviation–a textbook designed to introduce the next generation of aviation professionals (NGAP) to the variety of careers within the aviation industry.
“Although the aviation industry faces recruiting challenges, the launch of this textbook creates an opportunity for young people who are interested in aviation careers,” said Kearns. “Many young adults are passionate about aviation–and now there is an opportunity for their passion to align with a tremendous career opportunity that is in high-demand.”
Having experienced well-trained aviation specialists is everyone’s economic and safety interests. Through their unique partnership Kearns, the WWFC and the University of Waterloo have made it their mission to educate young people about the pathways to becoming aviation professionals–pilots, air traffic controllers, maintenance professionals, airline and airport management, among others–on an international scale.
The book launch, set in a hangar at WWFC, offers a dramatic backdrop highlighting the tremendous need to attract, recruit and educate young adults, called the NGAP program.
In fact, a special agency of the United Nations named the NGAP program a global priority. Without innovation and outreach, there isn’t the needed supply of aviation professionals to meet the projected demand in the industry.
This shortage is beginning to be felt within the regional airline industry in Canada, with the summer of 2017 having many flights cancelled due to lack of flight crew.
“The purpose of this book is to give young adults, as well as current aviation professionals, a foundation of knowledge about all of the interconnected aviation careers,” said Kearns.
“The book also profiles a variety of challenges in the industry–such as security, environmental issues, accident investigation, safety, and the increasingly important issue of drones.”
“We are happy to host this event,” said Bob Connors, general manger of WWFC. “Pilot shortage is a huge issue we’re facing and promoting the many opportunities to the next generation is extremely important.”
The launch event is open to the public and will include light refreshments, door prizes, a presentation and Q&A with the author, and discounted copies of the book available for purchase.
