Earn a technical certificate and train for a career in aerospace manufacturing, just two nights a week at the Future Ready Center starting in January

WICHITA, Kan. – Nov 12, 2026 – Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) is adding evening classes to its Aviation Sheetmetal Assembly technical certificate program, giving working adults a way to train for aerospace manufacturing careers without leaving their daytime jobs. Classes begin in January as part of the spring 2027 semester and meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Future Ready Center, 1435 N. Waco Ave. in Wichita.

“Many people in our community are interested in aviation careers but can’t step away from a full-time job to train during the day,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, president of WSU Tech. “Evening classes mean they don’t have to choose between earning a paycheck today and training for the career they want. Students can keep working and spend two nights a week learning the hands-on skills aerospace manufacturers look for.”

Students in the evening classes complete a core set of foundational aviation courses, then build the skills of an aerospace assembly mechanic. They learn to read engineering drawings, measure components with precision instruments, install fasteners in sheetmetal and other aviation materials, and assemble sheetmetal aircraft components. Coursework also covers safety procedures, inspection techniques, electrical bonding, and the role of quality assurance in aviation manufacturing.

Students who complete the 18-credit-hour program earn a technical certificate in Aviation Sheetmetal Assembly. The coursework also prepares students for the Aerospace Core and Aerospace Assembly Mechanic certifications endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

“Sheetmetal assembly is hands-on work, and that is how we teach it,” said James Hall, vice president, aviation & workforce development at WSU Tech. “Evening students will learn aerostructures assembly and the hand and power tools used on an aircraft production floor. They finish with a technical certificate and skills they can put to work in Wichita’s aviation industry.”

Spring classes begin January 12, 2027. Students attend both Tuesday and Thursday sessions each week. Space is limited.

To get started, apply at www.WSUTECH.edu/Apply, or for questions, contact WSU Tech admissions at 316-677-9400 or admissions@wsutech.edu. 

About WSU Tech

As Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology, WSU Tech stands at the forefront of modern technical education in Kansas, offering over 100 degree and certificate options. These programs cover critical fields such as aviation, health care, manufacturing, design, information technology, police science, culinary arts, business, and more. WSU Tech operates four campuses and serves as the managing partner of the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) in Wichita, KS—a city known for its high concentration of STEM jobs.

In 2018, Wichita State University, Kansas’ urban public research university, affiliated with WSU Tech, enhancing the institution’s student-centered focus and aligning with Wichita State’s dedication to innovation and applied learning. This partnership has created a comprehensive educational environment that supports student achievement and meets the evolving needs of industries in the urban heart of Kansas and beyond.

Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and as a Kansas Board of Regents institution, WSU Tech upholds high academic standards and equips students with the skills necessary for lifelong success and career readiness.

For more information on how WSU Tech shapes the future of technical education and contributes to the workforce in Kansas and beyond, please visit www.WSUTECH.edu. Follow WSU Tech on social media: Facebook| LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | X (Twitter) | TikTok