Wallace Community College Selma Blog

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WCCS Hosts Rural Aviation Consortium Press Conference

Selma, AL, September 17, 2024 — Wallace Community College Selma (WCCS) held a historic press conference today at Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority, officially launching the Rural Aviation Consortium. This initiative marks the first rural aviation program in Alabama and nationwide, designed to address the workforce shortage by offering comprehensive pilot training, air traffic control, avionics, and aircraft mechanics training.

The event drew critical local and state figures, including Dr. James M. Mitchell, WCCS President; Senator Robert Stewart, District 23; Mr. Gary Weaver, ACCS Regional Workforce Director; Mr. James Corrigan, Executive Director of Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority; and Dr. Tammie Briggs, WCCS Dean of Instruction.

“When elected, I pledged to value and pursue economic and workforce development opportunities in our region. We all know that aviation is the future, and this program will transform communities and lives,” remarked Senator Stewart.

Dr. James M. Mitchell, President of WCCS, expressed the significance of this initiative, stating, “We are committed to providing our students with the training they need to succeed in high-demand fields. The Rural Aviation Consortium represents a bold step toward building a brighter future for our students and the aviation industry. This program aims to uplift communities across the Black Belt and beyond.”

The program is a partnership between WCCS, Craig Field, and Marion Military Institute. It aims to equip students from underserved communities with the skills needed for success in aviation, providing them with a direct pathway to careers in a high-growth sector.

Essential points covered during the press conference included:

- The recent success of WCCS's Aviation Day inspired many local students to pursue careers in aviation.

- Upcoming plans to expand aviation offerings at WCCS with new courses and certifications.

- A review of the inaugural Aviation Summer Camp gave students hands-on exposure to aviation careers.

- Future collaborations with industry leaders to ensure continued growth of the Rural Aviation Consortium.

As aviation continues to evolve, WCCS and its partners are leading the charge in ensuring that students from rural and underrepresented communities have access to top-tier aviation education and career opportunities.

Media Contact:
Johnny Moss, III
johnny.moss@wccs.edu
334-327-2209 

About Wallace Community College Selma:  Wallace Community College Selma is committed to providing high-quality education and training to students in the Black Belt region. Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, WCCS is dedicated to fostering opportunities that empower students to achieve their full potential.

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WCCS Hosts Rural Aviation Consortium Press Conference