MEDIA, PA — In an initiative to bridge education and industry, more than 45 students from Delaware County Community College‘s (DCCC) Skilled Trades Program visited Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) on September 23. The visit aimed to provide students firsthand insight into potential careers in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, carpentry, and automotive mechanics.
The event was facilitated by the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Aviation, which operates PHL. This collaboration underscores DCCC’s Workforce & Economic Development Division’s commitment to aligning educational programs with the workforce needs of regional employers in Delaware, Chester, and surrounding counties.
During the tour, students explored the airport’s maintenance facilities, central utility building, and mechanical room. They received valuable insights from key PHL officials, including interim Vice President of Facilities Maintenance, Milton Robinson, and Manager of Airport Facilities, James Jones, who elaborated on the diverse career paths available within the airport’s operational framework.
The potential career prospects at PHL are promising, with starting salaries for roles such as plumbers and HVAC mechanics ranging from $57,826 to $63,820 annually, electricians from $48,999 to $53,761, carpenters from $47,922 to $52,519, and automotive maintenance technicians from $46,734 to $51,124.
Post-tour, students attended presentations by various Department of Aviation leaders, including Chief Administrative Officer Delicsha Wilds and Vice President of Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Donna Jackson Stephans. These sessions featured insights on the benefits of working with the City of Philadelphia, the hiring process, and the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Jennifer Orazi, DCCC’s Dean of Workforce & Economic Development, praised the initiative, stating, “It was a great day for our students. The team went above and beyond to welcome the students and give them a snapshot of what it’s like to work at PHL.”
This event is part of DCCC’s broader strategy to offer students real-world exposure to potential employers, enhancing their readiness for the workforce. Such interactions are pivotal in equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in their chosen trades. For more information on DCCC’s Skilled Trades offerings, interested individuals can explore their programs through the college’s resources.
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