Flying into the Future: The Michigan Institute of Aviation and Technology

A career with "No Speed Limit" is how the Michigan Institute of Aviation and Technology defines itself on its web site. It goes on to describe the top ten reasons why you should attend MIAT, including: a Fast Tracked Education, Hands on Training, and No Limits to your Future. The Wayne County-based post secondary educational institution is one of the largest aviation maintenance technician schools in the nation (historically a principal training ground for Northwest Airlines Aircraft Mechanics), with over 350 students.

Recently, MIAT sought a new location which would support their rapid growth and accommodate the demands of new and emerging industry sectors within the State, specifically wind generation, power technology and alternative energy systems. With the goal of becoming a nationally recognized center of educational excellence, MIAT doubled its capacity, growing from 80 employees and 350 students to 150 employees and 900 students.

In the process of seeking larger facilities to accommodate this growth, MIAT was strongly courted by other states which were trying to expand into these emerging industry sectors, with Texas ultimately becoming the principal competitor. It was during this site selection process that Wayne County became aware of the need for expansion as well as the interest shown by the city of Houston in drawing the new investment.

Within days, the County identified multiple site options and business incentives that could entice MIAT to grow in Wayne County. The request was to identify a location that could accommodate up to 600 students and 50 new faculty, all in a facility approaching 70,000 square feet. Following a detailed property search, the institute's \President, Mr. Charles Hawes, selected a facility in Huron township as a satellite campus to house its Power Technology and Transportation Dispatch divisions. MIAT'S existing facility at Willow Run continues to serve as its center for aviation education. With the State of Michigan's business investment program, incentives were offered to MIAT that served to cement the business investment for Wayne County and the State. A tax credit valued at $847,000 over five years was used to attract the project over a competing Texas location.

The significance of MIAT's investment in Wayne County is apparent when considering the comments from national and global companies, like Siemens. Describing the value they receive from an MIAT graduate, Siemens stated, "We realize that when we hire an MIAT trained professional, we are bringing in someone at an advanced level so we put them on a fast track." Employers from around the country regularly seek to hire MIAT professionals, including Liebherr Aerospace and Pentastar Aviation who have operations in Michigan.

MIAT's success in becoming one of the \nation's leading power and aviation training centers is one of the reasons why a new, larger center is in the works. Wayne County looks forward to continuing its partnership with MIAT on a number of fronts, as reflected in its support for new legislation to transform the region around Detroit Metro and Willow Run airports into an Aerotropolis (Airport City). With their support, along with other Wayne County companies, the County will continue to build on the strengths of institutions like MIAT in creating a better economy for its citizens.

Dave Tyler is the Deputy Director of Wayne County's Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE)