Florida, United States headquartered aviation and pilot training group Epic Flight Academy opened its 32,000-square-foot, $8 million aircraft mechanic school on the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport’s (CVG) campus on April 22, 2024. Staff, students, and guests celebrated the opening of the new FAA Part 147-certified school with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Students who complete the program will have the opportunity to become FAA-certified airframe and powerplant (A&P) aviation mechanics, which are in high demand, and will be able to seek direct employment in the aviation industry. The new school and training areas offer students the opportunity to get hands-on experience working on aircraft engines and to learn how to repair plane and helicopter equipment, in addition to completing other coursework.

“Workforce development is the most important and proactive step we can take for the future of Kentucky’s economy,” said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. “This new training facility from Epic Flight Academy will train workers at CVG, helping prepare thousands of Kentuckians to make an impact in their communities, while also supporting their families through skilled, well-paying jobs. We’re committed to building a pipeline for a skilled workforce and this is the latest example of that commitment.”

“This collaboration has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re thrilled to welcome our inaugural class of approximately 20 students,” said Danny Perna, chief executive officer and founder, Epic Flight Academy. “We are excited to see dreams come true and careers take off at CVG.”

“We are pleased to welcome Epic Flight Academy to CVG, and we look forward to seeing this partnership grow,” said Candace McGraw, chief executive officer, CVG. “Aircraft mechanics are in high demand, and Epic Flight Academy will open doors for students across our region who represent the future of the aviation industry and who we know will one day be employed at CVG.”

“We are proud to partner with Epic Flight Academy to establish an A&P school at CVG Airport,” said Cam Murphy, president of FEAM Aero. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to shaping the future of aviation maintenance and building a skilled workforce for the industry. Together, we are excited to provide aspiring Aircraft Maintenance Technicians with the training and resources they need to succeed in this dynamic field.”

Josh Rawlins, Epic COO and director of aircraft mechanics added, “I can’t say enough about the team effort in meeting deadlines to prepare for the FAA inspection. Our first class is well underway, and today we celebrate everyone’s hard work.”

Epic Flight Academy is offering year-round open enrollment and has rolling start dates for classes. Eligible students must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent, amongst other requirements.

About Epic Flight Academy

Epic Flight Academy’s main campus is located in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Established in 1999 by CEO Danny Perna, Epic offers Part 141 pilot training and Part 147 aircraft mechanic training. Epic employs 200+ people and trains hundreds of pilots and aircraft mechanics each year. The company maintains hiring partnerships with numerous airlines and aviation companies.

About CVG Airport

CVG welcomed 8.7 million travelers in 2023, which represents a 15%+ increase over 2022 and offers the lowest airfares in the region and 50+ nonstop destinations with 14 airlines/tour operators. The airport boasts two nonstop transatlantic flights to London via British Airways, as well as Paris-CDG through Delta Air Lines. CVG is the 6th largest cargo airport in North America with two global air hubs on campus continuing to drive growth: Amazon Air’s Hub and DHL Express’ Global Superhub for the Americas. With an annual impact of $9.3 billion on the local economy, the airport drives regional growth and remains a leader in aviation innovation.

Source: Epic Flight Academy
Photo Credit: Epic Flight Academy