Bombardier Launches FastTrack FAA Certification Program in Hartford

This article is based on an official press release from Bombardier.

Bombardier has officially launched its FastTrack training program in Hartford, Connecticut, aiming to accelerate the certification process for aircraft maintenance technicians. According to a company press release, the initiative is designed to help professionals secure their Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification through a streamlined, intensive curriculum.

The program was initially developed in collaboration with the Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech). Now, Bombardier is expanding the initiative to Hartford in coordination with CT Aero Tech, a division of the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS).

As the aviation industry faces ongoing workforce demands, this expansion highlights a strategic effort to build a robust pipeline of skilled talent. Bombardier noted in its announcement that it plans to replicate the FastTrack model across other service locations throughout the United States.

Accelerated Pathway to FAA Certification

To qualify for the FastTrack program, candidates must meet specific experience requirements outlined by the manufacturer. According to the press release, eligible participants need a minimum of 18 months of hands-on industry experience in either Airframe or Powerplant disciplines, or 30 months of combined experience.

The curriculum is divided into two intensive phases. First, participants undergo a two- to four-week accelerated classroom refresher designed to prepare them for the FAA written examinations covering General, Airframe, and Powerplant subjects. Following the classroom portion, students complete an additional two weeks of hands-on instruction to ready them for their practical evaluations.

“The FastTrack program reflects Bombardier’s continued investment in building a highly skilled maintenance workforce to support our growing service operations,” said Paul J. Thompson, Vice President of Service Centres at Bombardier, in the official release.

Collaborating for Regional Workforce Development

The expansion into Hartford relies heavily on regional partnerships. Bombardier is working closely with CT Aero Tech and the state economic development organization AdvanceCT to facilitate the program’s rollout.

State officials view the initiative as a significant boost to the local aerospace sector. John Bourdeaux, President and CEO of AdvanceCT, stated in the release that the program is a strong vote of confidence in Connecticut’s training ecosystem, helping residents access high-quality aviation careers.

Similarly, CTECS Executive Director Dr. Alice Pritchard emphasized that the partnership maximizes the use of state facilities and connects skilled talent to the growing needs of the aviation industry. The original co-developer of the program, WSU Tech, also praised the expansion, noting that combining real-world experience with targeted training creates a scalable solution to industry challenges.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that Bombardier’s FastTrack program addresses a critical bottleneck in the business aviation aftermarket: the shortage of certified A&P mechanics. By targeting individuals who already possess 18 to 30 months of practical experience but lack formal FAA certification, Bombardier is effectively fast-tracking a highly capable segment of the workforce. With a global fleet of more than 5,200 aircraft and 10 service facilities across six countries, the manufacturer’s ability to maintain its aftermarket growth relies heavily on staffing these centers with qualified technicians. Expanding this program beyond its Wichita roots into Hartford, and eventually other U.S. locations, demonstrates a proactive approach to securing the necessary labor force for its expanding service network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bombardier FastTrack program?

According to the company’s press release, FastTrack is an accelerated training pathway designed to help experienced aircraft maintenance technicians obtain their FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification.

Who is eligible for the program?

Candidates must have at least 18 months of hands-on industry experience in either Airframe or Powerplant disciplines, or 30 months of combined experience.

How long does the training take?

The program consists of a two- to four-week classroom refresher for written exams, followed by two weeks of hands-on instruction for practical evaluations.

Sources

• Bombardier