There's wonderful news taking flight in Pueblo, Colorado! Governor Jared Polis and state economic development leaders have announced enthusiastic support for an innovative Aviation Maintenance Technician training program that promises to transform lives and strengthen the community for generations to come.

This heartwarming collaboration between CAE Training Center, the City of Pueblo, and Pueblo Community College represents exactly the kind of forward-thinking partnership that builds brighter futures. The program has received $471,423 in state funding and will create a minimum of 45 new full-time positions over the next three years, with impressive median salaries of approximately $79,140 annually.

What makes this initiative especially inspiring is its commitment to serving those who need opportunities most. The program prioritizes former coal workers transitioning to new careers, veterans returning to civilian life, and enthusiastic high school graduates ready to launch their professional journeys. It's a beautiful example of a community coming together to ensure no one gets left behind during economic transitions.

"This new grant will drive economic development in Pueblo County and prepare the Pueblo Memorial Airport for the future," Governor Polis shared with genuine excitement. "I'm excited to see the impact this funding will have in the community, expanding travel opportunities in Southern Colorado, and creating 45 new good-paying jobs."

The timing couldn't be better. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the aviation industry needs to fill approximately 12,000 aircraft mechanic positions annually as experienced technicians retire. This program positions Pueblo perfectly to meet this growing national demand while creating sustainable careers for local residents.

Mayor Heather Graham expressed the community's pride in this achievement: "The City of Pueblo is proud to work with community partners CAE and Pueblo Community College to start the Aviation Maintenance Technician program which utilizes the Pueblo Memorial Airport for job training. Pueblo is better when we all work together to improve our community."

Dr. Chato Hazelbaker, President of Pueblo Community College, emphasized how perfectly this aligns with the college's mission: "Working with partners to bring high wage jobs to students is at the heart of the Pueblo Community College mission. The Aviation Maintenance Technician is a win for the region."

The approved funding will support everything needed to make this program thrive—from staff salaries and facility renovations to cutting-edge equipment and comprehensive curriculum development over two-and-a-half years. Even better, Pueblo Community College has committed to sustaining the program long after the initial grant period ends, ensuring lasting benefits for the community.

This initiative showcases Colorado's thoughtful approach to economic evolution through its Office of Just Transition, which helps communities historically reliant on coal mining find new paths to prosperity. Rather than simply closing one chapter, leaders are actively writing an exciting new story filled with opportunity and hope.

With strong support from local leaders, educational institutions, and the aviation industry, Pueblo is demonstrating how communities can successfully navigate economic transitions while creating quality jobs and building skills for the future. This is truly what positive progress looks like!