California Aeronautical University hosts sixth annual Aviation Career Day
As the aviation industry continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial for educational institutions like California Aeronautical University (CAU) to prepare future pilots and aircraft maintenance technicians for success.
With a commitment to providing exceptional education and hands-on experience, CAU has been a leading force in shaping the future of flight. And their efforts were on full display at the sixth Annual Aviation Career Day held at the CAU campus in Bakersfield, California.
CAU’s Aviation Career Day is an opportunity for high school students, aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals to come together and learn more about the exciting world of aviation. This year’s event was a resounding success, with over 900 attendees and representatives from various organizations in the aviation industry. Among them were airline partners, aircraft manufacturers, and government agencies.
One of the highlights of this year’s career day was a panel discussion led by CAU President Matthew Johnston. The panel included five experienced industry professionals who shared their insights and answered questions from the students. This Q&A session provided a unique opportunity for students to interact with individuals who have established successful careers in aviation.
The panelists represented various sectors of the aviation industry. They shared their personal journeys and offered valuable advice to the students on how to succeed in this competitive field. The panelists also discussed the current state of the aviation industry and its prospects, giving students a realistic understanding of what it takes to thrive in this dynamic field.
Johnston emphasized CAU’s commitment to providing students with not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that are essential for their future careers. He stated, “At CAU, we believe in preparing our students for the real world of aviation. Our annual career day event is just one of the ways we expose them to different aspects of the industry and give them a glimpse into what they can achieve.”
In addition to showcasing the aviation industry, CAU made sure to highlight its campus and programs as well. The campus tours provided students with a glimpse into the life of a CAU student and gave them a better understanding of the opportunities that await them if they choose to study at CAU.
The success of the event was also evident in the feedback from attendees. Megan Dutto, an educator from North Bakersfield High School who helped develop the first aviation program in Kern County, attested to the impact of the Aviation Career Day on her students. “My students absolutely loved the sixth annual Career Day held at CAU,” she said. “They enjoyed the opportunity to talk with so many different representatives in the industry and experience firsthand what it’s like to be a part of this exciting world. “
Dutto added, “What is so wonderful about CAU’s annual event is that all students were invited. There was no class requirement. The exhibitors spoke to everyone with the same enthusiasm. There were students in attendance who had never been to the airport and had no clue how many opportunities were literally in their backyard to pursue. Events like today are game changers for students who otherwise would not have the opportunity to be exposed to all things aerospace.“
For CAU, the Aviation Career Day is not just a one-day event but a reflection of their commitment to shaping the future of flight. With a state-of-the-art facility and experienced faculty, CAU offers students a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in the aviation industry. From hands-on training to real-world experiences, CAU provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers.
CAU’s partnership with United Aviate is another example of their dedication to shaping the future of aviation. Through this program, CAU students have the chance to participate in a cadet program with United Airlines, which includes mentorship, training, travel benefits, and a conditional job offer upon successful completion. This partnership not only provides students with a clear pathway to their dream career but also helps meet the growing demand for skilled pilots in the industry.
CAU’s annual career event not only showcased the diverse opportunities in the aviation industry but also highlighted the university’s commitment to shaping the future of flight. By providing students with hands-on experiences, access to industry professionals, and partnerships with major airlines, CAU is preparing the next generation of aviation professionals for a fulfilling career in this exciting field.
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Tamu Smith-Kohls serves as the Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing for California Aeronautical University. She has worked in the aviation industry in various roles for 24 years. As a United States Air Force retired veteran, she has a unique appreciation for the aviation industry. Tamu has served in Information Systems as a Network Administrator, Aerospace Flight Medicine as a Health Services Manager, and Air Force Recruitment and Marketing. She holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology; a Master’s in Business Administration and is a Certified Neuro Linguistic Practitioner. Her passion is motivating, training, coaching and serving others to reach their best potential.