Aviation services provider AAR Corp. has established fellowships with Vincennes University in Indiana and the Aviation Institute of Maintenance in Indianapolis to further expand the pipeline of aviation maintenance technicians.

“The need for aviation maintenance technicians is as critical as the shortage of pilots and continues to grow,” said AAR v-p of repair and engineering Brian Sartain.

Under the program, students selected as AAR fellows receive scholarships to pursue airframe and powerplant mechanic programs while working at an AAR facility. Following graduation, students who are in good standing are guaranteed employment with AAR. Earlier this year, AAR enrolled its inaugural class of fellows at its program in Rockford, Illinois.

“AAR’s Fellowship Program removes the cost of education as a barrier to enter the aviation maintenance technician field,” said Michael Gehrich, Vincennes University’s director of aviation. “This shows AAR’s commitment to help fill the aviation maintenance technician pipeline and connect students with the potential for a six-figure career track.”