West Star Aviation is working with the Careerwise program in Colorado to establish a long-term apprenticeship program that will begin in August 2018. The state of Colorado formed the Careerwise initiative to meet the need for skilled and trade competencies.

Under the program, West Star will employ at least five apprentices a year for three years, providing training, development opportunities, business coaching and guidance, and consideration for full-time employment. West Star expects to decide on the exact number of open apprentice positions next month. But initial plans call for hiring one apprentice for aviation technology and another for paint, with the possibility of 14 spots opening in 2018.

"There is a growing need for new trade and skill development, especially in aviation, and there is a lack of trade schools for aircraft maintenance and paint, so if we can train students interested in the aviation market, we can take them to whatever level we want or need them to be at," said Katie Johnson, director of human resources for West Star Aviation. An added benefit is the program will help apprentices “continue to develop their passion for aviation.”