Workforce Opportunities Soar at United

In a recent tour of United Airlines, the Bay Area Council Workforce of the Future team learned about the ample workforce career pathways offered in aviation. United operates its largest North America maintenance facility here in the Bay Area at San Francisco International Airport. The tour provided an inside look at the extremely complicated planes, parts, machines, and machines that maintain the machines, and highlighted the huge need for technicians and opportunities for entry-level positions that are ladders to technical jobs. There are a variety of jobs from aircraft maintenance to store keeper, who handle all the parts for the aircraft. The technical jobs are growing in demand due to growth in the industry and the aging of the current workforce. For example, the technician occupation only requires an accreditation through a Federal Aviation Administration program that is offered at numerous community colleges. These positions can pay up to $100,000 a year!

There also are a number of career pathways from entry level positions that workers can pursue and earn their technician certificate while working. The huge need for middle skill aviation technicians is why the Bay Area Council will be launching a new occupational council focused on this in-demand industry. On July 6, the Council kicked off a meeting with Pamela Gutman, Deputy Sector Navigator for Bay Area community colleges, and her team of aviation experts to prep for the occupational council with employers. Working with United, as well as our other aviation and logistics members, the Council will work to close the gaps and help our members meet their talent needs. To engage in the Workforce of the Future Committee, please contact Senior Vice President Public Policy, Linda Bidrossian.