Aviation Training Classes Canceled

ENID - Three years after receiving a $400,000 state grant to construct a new facility for its aviation training classes, Enid's vocational-technical school is canceling the program.

Officials at Autry Technology Center were warned last year about additional cuts in state aid because of low enrollment in its adult aviation program.

The aviation program has suffered the past two years after the Autry Technology Center dropped its aviation program for high school students. At the time, some aviation teachers criticized the move because students enrolled in high school classes were more compelled to continue with adult classes.

School officials blamed the aviation program's demise on the closing or downsizing of aviation plants and military facilities, which caused a large employee pool and low demand for aviation workers.

Autry Technology Center used its $400,000 state grant to build a 20,000-square-foot building for aviation classes at Enid's municipal airport.

School officials now plan to store all of the equipment, valued at nearly $3 million.

The current 20-month aviation program will continue through July 12, Donna Schooley, Autry's public information spokeswoman, said Monday. Courses are taught in general aviation and air frame mechanics.

The program has three students, all of whom are scheduled to finish in July, she said.

The aviation building will house a business and industry incubator program scheduled to get under way late this summer.

The incubator program helps beginning businesses by offering low-lease office or industry facilities for a few years until the company is able to operate on its own. BIOG: NAME:

Archive ID: 611810