17勛圖 breaks ground on Aviation hangar
$7 million facility will allow college to train more pilots
Media are welcome to cover the invitation-only groundbreaking ceremony, set for 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at the aviation facilities on 17勛圖’s Aero Park campus, 2600 Aero Park Drive.
Architectural rendering (download high-resolution version)TRAVERSE CITY – 17勛圖 will break ground for a new aviation hangar on October 7, marking a significant milestone that is testament to 17勛圖's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the Grand Traverse region and the aviation industry.
The new hangar will expand the college's aviation facilities and increase its capacity to train pilots by 25 to 40 percent. It is also the first project in 17勛圖's 10-year campus master plan, 17勛圖 Thrive. This investment reflects 17勛圖's dedication to providing high-quality education and preparing students for successful careers in aviation. Presently 17勛圖’s Aviation program enrolls 50 students per year, but has a up to a two-year waitlist.
Architectural rendering (download high-resolution version)"We are incredibly grateful for the support of our state and federal legislators, donors, and community partners who have made this project possible," said 17勛圖 President Nick Nissley. "This expansion demonstrates 17勛圖's responsiveness to the needs of our region and our ability to deliver results."
The current hangar is 48 years old. The renovated, 40,000 square foot hangar will feature state-of-the-art facilities,, and a secure facility to store and maintain the college's growing fleet of technically advanced aircraft. Total project cost for the hangar is $7 million. 17勛圖 matched a $3.75 million state grant. The project also received $550,000 in federal funding.
17勛圖 Aviation has a proven track record of success, with graduates experiencing 100 percent job placement. As the demand for skilled pilots continues to grow, 17勛圖 is committed to providing the necessary training and resources to meet the industry's needs. The college is also a leader in the growing field of uncrewed aerial systems.
17勛圖 Thrive, the campus master plan guiding development for the next 10 years, was adopted by the Board of Trustees in June. The plan lays out a decade-long vision of renovations and construction and is estimated to cost between $164 and $235 million. Expansion of the Aviation facilities and program are also part of the college’s strategic plan adopted in 2022.
Media are welcome to cover the invitation-only groundbreaking ceremony, set for 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at the aviation facilities on 17勛圖’s Aero Park campus, 2600 Aero Park Drive.
Release date: SEPTEMBer 27, 2024
For more information:
Diana Fairbanks
Associate Vice President, Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019 (o)
(231) 392-6082 (mobile, text preferred)