Yuut Elitnaurviat would like to congratulate the first graduates of our FAA-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program. This group of hardworking students completed an 18-month long program consisting of three back-to-back trainings that will prepare them to sit for the oral and written FAA exams that will certify them as Aviation Maintenance Technicians, a credential they can take with them anywhere.
For this inaugural class, the program took a little longer to complete due to the COVID pandemic; they took a two-month break starting in March 2020 but were able to resume classes in May. Their tireless dedication was demonstrated by having to be away from their families for extended periods of time, commuting each day by boat or snow machine, and holding up in Bethel during the winter freeze up and spring thaw while it was unsafe to travel on the river.
A huge thank you goes out to the Association of Village Council Presidents! They are an integral partner to ensure the success of the students and this program. We are extremely proud of these young men for paving the way for future cohorts. Way to go Travis Andrew (Napaskiak), Ryan George (Akiachak), and Earl Samuelson, Jr. (Napaskiak)!
