GAINESVILLE — North Central Texas College has announced a strategic partnership with US Aviation Academy to offer FAA-approved Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) maintenance training, significantly expanding career pathway options for students pursuing vocational and technical education in the high-demand aviation industry. Under the partnership, the FAA-approved training program will be offered at the US Aviation Academy's Denton campus, combining NCTC's proven educational foundation, student support services, and instructional excellence with the US Aviation Academy's specialized aviation maintenance expertise and equipment. The Airframe & Powerplant program provides students with comprehensive, hands-on training in aircraft maintenance, inspection, repair, and certification procedures. Upon successful completion of the program and FAA certification examination, graduates earn their A&P mechanic certification, a credential recognized throughout the aviation industry and valued by airlines, maintenance facilities, and aircraft manufacturers. "We're excited to expand opportunities for our students and meet growing workforce demands in aviation," said NCTC officials in describing the partnership's significance. "This collaboration allows us to provide specialized training that prepares students for meaningful careers in a growing industry." The partnership reflects NCTC's commitment to responding to regional and national workforce demands and providing students with direct pathways to high-wage, high-skill careers in specialized trades. Aviation maintenance technicians remain in strong demand as the aviation industry continues to recover and expand. The aviation partnership complements NCTC's existing vocational and technical programs, which have earned the college recognition for workforce development initiatives across North Texas. NCTC's track record of successful career training includes programs in nursing, welding, diesel mechanics, and various other skilled trades. This initiative aligns with NCTC's broader strategic direction of building partnerships that enhance educational offerings and expand access to specialized training. The college has also joined the statewide Texas Talent Accelerator, a regional partnership with Collin College, Dallas College, Texas Woman's University, and other higher education institutions designed to align academic and vocational programs with industry demands as the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex experiences significant economic growth and development. Additionally, NCTC's Red River Promise Program recently launched an innovative banking partnership initiative designed to raise $25,000 over five years through collaboration with local banks. These funds expand student access to higher education, removing financial barriers that prevent qualified students from pursuing college degrees. North Central Texas College serves Cooke County and the surrounding region, with main campus located in Gainesville and satellite locations in other communities. For more information about the new aviation partnership, A&P training program details, admission requirements, financial aid, or other NCTC programs and services, students and families can contact the college's admissions office at (940) 668-7731 or visit www.nctc.edu.