Q: I don't want to build aircraft. Can I still benefit from this program?
A: Absolutely. Not all of our graduates have wanted to work on aircraft either. In fact, some don't even look for jobs in the aerospace industry. The great thing about this program is that because the standards for aerospace manufacturing are so high, you will come out of the college with the skills to succeed in virtually any manufacturing sector.

Q: Will I find a job when I finish the program?
A: The odds are definitely in your favor. Many of our graduates already have jobs lined up before they graduate. The aerospace industry is booming and there is a very high demand for our manufacturing grads; so much so that aerospace companies from across the country often come to the college to conduct interviews with our students weeks before classes finish. Imagine not having to go looking for a job after you finish school! 

Q: What are the starting salaries like for graduates? How much can I make after a few years?
A: Graduates from our program typically find themselves among the highest paid of any of the programs offered by the college. There is no set salary to expect but starting wages tend to be around $40,000 per year. Several of our graduates earn well into the six figure range.

Q: What are the requirements to get into the program?
A: We generally want students to have a solid background in mathematics and physics.  If you are lacking the required courses, don't panic! There are options available to still get into the program. Contact program coordinator Jim Zeleny for academic upgrading options.

Q: I've never built anything in my life. Can I still succeed in the Aerospace Manufacturing program?
A: There is a common misconception about our program. It is not all "hands-on" building things with tools. Prior experience is not a necessity. Much of the program revolves around a process that starts with an idea and ends with a finished product. Students learn from our instructors to succeed in every aspect of this process, from initial drawings on a computer to the finished product. As long as you have the desire to succeed, we will teach you the rest.

Q: Isn't manufacturing a dirty job?
A: Some manufacturing environments rival or exceed medical operating rooms in terms of cleanliness. Most aerospace and other high technology manufacturing operations are exceptionally clean and well organized; and they have to be. And although we use a hands-on learning environment, we are training students to be knowledgeable problem-solvers, not just shop floor workers. Some students choose to pursue a shop type position, most work in an office or laboratory environment.

Q: What if I haven't taken shop or tech courses in high-school?
A: Although any technical background is beneficial, we provide complete coverage of the technical aspects within our program. Many come to our program with no technical background and do just fine.

Q: I have a question that isn't answered here. Who can I contact for information?
A: Jim Zeleny, the coordinator of the Aerospace Manufacturing programs will be happy to answer any questions you have. You can reach him by telephone at 807-473-3733, or by email zeleny@confederationc.on.ca.