Spartan College Launches “Find Your AERO” Campaign to Inspire Future Aviation Talent

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, a longstanding institution in aviation education since 1928, has unveiled its national “Find Your AERO” campaign. Designed to energize interest in aviation careers, the initiative blends digital storytelling, alumni spotlights, and hands-on events to connect with students, career changers, and aviation enthusiasts across the country.

The campaign arrives at a pivotal moment for the aerospace industry, which continues to face a growing talent gap in technical roles ranging from aircraft maintenance to avionics and systems integration. With over 100,000 graduates trained to date, Spartan College is positioning itself not only as a training ground but as a launchpad for the next generation of aerospace professionals.

Beyond the Cockpit: A Broader Vision of Aviation Careers

“Find Your AERO” is more than a recruitment slogan. It’s a call to explore the full spectrum of aviation-related careers, including roles in aerospace manufacturing, defense systems, and emerging technologies. Shannon Faris, a 2019 graduate of Spartan’s Denver-area campus, exemplifies this trajectory. After earning her Associate of Occupational Studies in Airframe and Powerplant, she began her career as an R&D Technician and now serves as a Production Planner III at BAE Systems in Westminster, Colorado.

Faris reflects on her journey with clarity and conviction. “Aviation isn’t just about airplanes. It’s also aerospace, defense, and cutting-edge technology. It’s constantly growing and evolving, shaping industries beyond just commercial aviation,” she said. Her story underscores the campaign’s broader message: aviation is a gateway to innovation, confidence, and personal growth.

A Timely Push for Workforce Development

The aerospace sector is grappling with a shortage of skilled technicians and engineers, a challenge exacerbated by retirements and rising demand for commercial and defense aircraft. According to Boeing’s 2023 Pilot and Technician Outlook, the industry will need more than 600,000 new maintenance technicians globally over the next two decades. Initiatives like “Find Your AERO” are critical in addressing this need by demystifying aviation careers and making them accessible to a wider audience.

Spartan’s campaign also aligns with national efforts to bolster STEM education and vocational training. By showcasing real-world success stories and offering immersive experiences, the college is helping to bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity.

Upcoming Events and Engagement Opportunities

As part of the campaign, Spartan College will host “Find Your AERO” Day on Saturday, September 27. The event is open to prospective students, alumni, educators, and media, and will feature interactive demonstrations, guest speakers, and hands-on activities. Attendees can explore training pathways in piloting, aircraft maintenance, and avionics, while connecting with industry professionals and Spartan alumni.

The event will be held across Spartan’s campuses, including its Denver-area site adjacent to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, which boasts 52,000 square feet of training facilities. Registration details are available at Spartan.edu/Events.

A Legacy of Training, A Future of Possibility

With nearly a century of aviation education behind it, Spartan College continues to evolve in response to industry needs. “Find Your AERO” is not just a campaign, it’s a reflection of Spartan’s enduring mission: to equip individuals with the skills, confidence, and vision to thrive in aerospace and beyond.