S-1883 : Still Just a Bill

The Aviation Workforce Development and Recruitment Act aims to address workforce shortages in the aviation industry. Here's a summary:

• Expands Grant Programs: The act increases funding for aviation workforce development grant programs.
• Extends Program Duration: It extends the grant programs through 2029.
• Additional Funding: Provides an additional $10 million per fiscal year (2024-2029) for each of the three grant programs:
  • Aviation maintenance technical workers
  • Aerospace engineers and aircraft pilots
  • Aviation manufacturing technical workers
• Eligible Institutions: Expands eligible institutions to include postsecondary vocational institutions.
• Eligible Projects: Defines eligible projects to include programs for aviation education, professional development for educators, scholarships/apprenticeships, and outreach about aviation careers.
• Prioritization: Prioritizes applicants who partner with secondary and post-secondary schools and participate in industry partnerships.
• Secretary of Education Consultation: Encourages consultation with the Secretary of Education in grant application design, review, and student outcome measurements.
• National Strategic Plan: Mandates the establishment of a national strategic plan to address projected aviation worker shortages.