$7 million facility will allow college to train more pilots
Media are welcome to cover the invitation-only groundbreaking ceremony, set for 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at the aviation facilities on NMC’s Aero Park campus, 2600 Aero Park Drive.
Architectural rendering (download high-resolution version)TRAVERSE CITY – Northwestern Michigan College will break ground for a new aviation hangar on October 7, marking a significant milestone that is testament to NMC’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the Grand Traverse region and the aviation industry.
The new hangar will expand the college’s aviation facilities and increase its capacity to train pilots by 25 to 40 percent. It is also the first project in NMC’s 10-year campus master plan, NMC Thrive. This investment reflects NMC’s dedication to providing high-quality education and preparing students for successful careers in aviation. Presently NMC’s Aviation program enrolls 50 students per year, but has a up to a two-year waitlist.
Architectural rendering (download high-resolution version)“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our state and federal legislators, donors, and community partners who have made this project possible,” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “This expansion demonstrates NMC’s responsiveness to the needs of our region and our ability to deliver results.”
The current hangar is 48 years old. The renovated, 40,000 square foot hangar will feature state-of-the-art facilities,, and a secure facility to store and maintain the college’s growing fleet of technically advanced aircraft. Total project cost for the hangar is $7 million. NMC matched a $3.75 million state grant. The project also received $550,000 in federal funding.
NMC Aviation has a proven track record of success, with graduates experiencing 100 percent job placement. As the demand for skilled pilots continues to grow, NMC is committed to providing the necessary training and resources to meet the industry’s needs. The college is also a leader in the growing field of uncrewed aerial systems.
NMC Thrive, the campus master plan guiding development for the next 10 years, was adopted by the Board of Trustees in June. The plan lays out a decade-long vision of renovations and construction and is estimated to cost between $164 and $235 million. Expansion of the Aviation facilities and program are also part of the college’s strategic plan adopted in 2022.
Media are welcome to cover the invitation-only groundbreaking ceremony, set for 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at the aviation facilities on NMC’s Aero Park campus, 2600 Aero Park Drive.
Release date: SEPTEMBer 27, 2024
For more information:
Diana Fairbanks
Associate Vice President, Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019 (o)
(231) 392-6082 (mobile, text preferred)