Lorenzo Walker tech students get hands-on aircraft training at Naples Airport

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — A two-year program in Collier County is giving students more than a classroom lesson, it's giving them a path into a career.

For some students, this could mean getting into a high-demand field faster, with much less time spent waiting for their future to begin. WINK News reporter Paul Dolan was invited to see how one partnership is opening the door.

It takes two years for students at Naples Airport to get all of the tools they need to keep helicopters flying safely. The future of aviation is now training at Naples Airport.

"This path gives a lot more opportunity," a student said. "And doing it this way, you get into the field quicker."

For students at Lorenzo Walker Technical College, the runway to a career begins at the airport. Students are learning on real aircraft equipment—from engines to helicopter controls—inside a working airport environment.

"As a maintenance technician, we're logging every single part, no matter what it is, small or large," a student said.

Aviation instructor Jefferie Goree said even if students are ready for the work, finding that first job close to home can still be a challenge. The geographical area doesn't provide many aerospace or aviation companies.

"They're mechanic-ready right now, but in this geographical area, which is naval, it doesn't provide a whole lot of aerospace or aviation companies," Goree said.

Goree said while students navigate a turbulent area to work, as long as they do everything safely, it'll all work out.