The sky's the limit: TPA's Operations Apprenticeship Program provides one-of-a-kind career opportunities

Logan Ward has always loved aviation, and from a young age, had a dream of one day working someplace where she could see aircraft taking off and landing.

Then, while studying at Everglades University, she heard about Tampa International Airport's Operations Apprenticeship Program.

“I decided to apply and completed the interview,” Ward said. "And the rest is history.”

Ward recently graduated from the special program and now works in TPA's Airport Operations Center as a dispatcher.

For those in college considering a career working for an airport or an airport-related agency, TPA’s Operations Apprenticeship Program offers valuable guidance and training. The 11-week program provides unique experiences and training opportunities, giving students a chance to learn about various airport-related careers while also cultivating the growth of future leaders in the aviation industry.

Students in the program are provided training, hands-on experience, practical application, networking, and resume-building skills. Apprentices learn about a number of airport-related fields including guest experience, the Airport Operations Center, general aviation, airlines, and emergency management.  

When asked about her time in the program, Logan said she couldn't recommend it highly enough.

"Being so close to the airplanes and the runway was such a cool experience," Logan said. "This opportunity really helped me learn more about all the different opportunities I could have in aviation. I didn’t know so many careers existed and the Program was absolutely amazing."

TPA Vice President of Operations Adam Bouchard stressed that a potential apprentice needs an eagerness to learn and to proactively engage in the program. 

“This program will help a student narrow down what they’d like to do and potentially find a matching career," Adam said. "Each student will really get as much out of the program as they’d like. Our goal is to stay connected with each student who attends and walk alongside them for as long as they need it, and to help them find a career in aviation. While the program only lasts 11 weeks, we seek to build a relationship that lasts a lifetime.” 

Applications will open later this year for the next round of the TPA's Operations Apprenticeship Program. Those interested in the program should contact Don Fizell, Airport Operations Support Manager, at dfizell@tampaairport.com to apply.