Just four miles from Manassas Regional Airport, the busiest General Aviation airport in Virginia, students at Unity Reed High School in Prince William County are learning the aviation maintenance trade courtesy of a donated aircraft to the school. The aircraft will allow the students to gain hands-on maintenance experience in a trade that is experiencing a critical manpower shortage nationwide.
Scott Kenney, an Aviation Maintenance teacher at Unity Reed High School and Woodbridge High School, said the aircraft is a Viking Dragonfly, a two-seater plane with a cockpit less than four feet across. Summit Helicopters, a Salem, Va.-based company, donated the aircraft. Kenney said he was “very happy” to receive the donation and that it would help enhance students’ education and interest in aviation maintenance.
“[This program’s goal] is to enrich the education of the students in the field of aviation maintenance and to prepare them for any future school or career they may choose,” Kenney said.
The Aviation Maintenance Programs at Unity Reed High School and Woodbridge High School teach equipment safety, maintenance publications and records, airframes, engines, and electricity and give students insight into aviation careers. Kenney said 17 students are enrolled in the program at Unity Reed and another 15 at Woodbridge High School.
As part of their curriculum, the 32 students take Aviation Maintenance I and II courses and recommended classes like Technical Drawing, Introduction to Engineering and Design, or Construction Technology. The school has a large maintenance bay to accommodate the aircraft, disassemble the engine and avionics, and teach repair techniques for engine and cockpit components.
For Unity Reed seniors Kevin Salazar Ramirez and Eddie Quezada, using a real aircraft in conjunction with the school’s aviation program allows them to test their skills.
“The best aspects of the class are the hands-on projects like disassembling an aircraft reciprocating engine,” Ramirez said. He added that remembering some of the steps involved in disassembly can be challenging.
Both students said they intend to earn aviation maintenance technician certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration and believe the school’s aviation maintenance program can “open [future students’] eyes to the aspects of [the] aeronautics and aerospace industry.”
According to industry estimates, a shortage of nearly 18,000 aviation mechanics nationwide in 2023 could skyrocket to 43,000 by 2027. The Aviation Technician Education Council predicts the industry needs at least 20% more mechanics than are currently being trained to meet the immense demand.
Kenney said he is proud to “play a role in encouraging our students to pursue various fields of aviation” and to prepare them for Aircraft Maintenance Technician Schools or apprenticeships.
Kevin Sandell is a freelance reporter for Potomac Local News.
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Stafford County Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay Thursday, January 23, 2025.
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Brown, a longtime Stafford resident and active community member, brings a wealth of experience in civic engagement and public service. “I am honored to represent Stafford County and look forward to working with the library board to ensure our community has access to the best resources and services,” Brown stated following her appointment. Her term will begin immediately.
The appointment follows a challenging period for the county’s relationship with the library board. During the same meeting, Chairman Deuntay Diggs issued a public apology to former library board member Mary Becelia, who was removed from her position under allegations of misconduct.
Meet Daphne, a sweet 2-year-old pup with a personality that’s as fun as it is adorable! Daphne came to the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter as a stray, and while she was a bit reserved at first, she’s now blossomed into a lively, energetic, and curious girl who loves attention.
This lovable dog walks wonderfully on a leash and enjoys exploring the outdoors. She’s eager to learn new things and thrives on positive interactions with people. While Daphne is quiet and calm in her kennel, her excitement is evident every time someone walks by—she’s always ready for a chance to play and explore outside.
If you’re looking for a loyal and energetic companion to brighten your days, Daphne could be the perfect fit.
Visit her during adoption hours at the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter, located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit their website at Spotsylvania Animal Shelter.
Help Daphne find the loving home she deserves—stop by today!
Join the fun at the Manassas Winter Market on Saturday, January 25, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Prince William Street Commuter Lot in Historic Downtown Manassas. Shop for baked goods, fresh produce, warm beverages, and other seasonal delights while supporting local vendors. The market runs every Saturday through March 22, making it the perfect spot to stock up your pantry and enjoy cozy winter vibes.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
