Sunday, December 16, 2012

Gateway Science Museum in Chico hosts career day

CHICO — Backed by a hands-on exhibit called "Take Flight," the Gateway Science Museum hoped its first career day, aimed at high school students, would take off.

Armed with five experts in aviation, the museum hoped to provide insight into the field, which is labeled by many as "under represented."

"We have a lot of expertise in the community," said Renee Renner, co-director of the museum.

Two presenters came from North Valley Aviation Association while others came from various flight backgrounds and gave students a look at different career paths and benefits of becoming a licensed pilot.

"There's a lot of folks out there looking for a good, solid aviation technician," said Floyd Sanderson, of North Valley Aviation Association.

Despite a bad economy, he says, aviation jobs are rising and always in demand.

"I never know what my day is going to bring," said James Marshall of Enloe Flight Care.

The main benefit to becoming a pilot is that you aren't locked into one thing. Pilots can work for fire and police departments, hospitals and the Army. They can do flight tours, flight photography and work as air traffic controllers, he said.

"If I can do it, you can do it," said Tom Aylward, a commercial pilot, during his presentation.

All presenters urged students to start their career by getting a four-year degree. They also discussed the large cost of becoming a pilot.

"Money makes an airplane fly," said Aylward.

The museum followed the  speeches with a short video on how to get into the aviation job industry and beginning salary expectations.

After the event, the museum hosted a helicopter rescue demonstration at the Ranchaero Airport, put on by Enloe Flight Care and the Butte County Sheriff's Office.

"It is our first career day and we hope there will be many more," said Renner.


Story and photo:    http://www.chicoer.com

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