FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State-of-the-Art Training Facility to Combat Canada's Pilot Shortage
Three Hills, Alberta (August 20, 2024) – The Prairie Aviation Training Centre (PATC) is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking ceremony for its much-anticipated facility expansion. This pivotal event marks a significant milestone in aviation education and training for the region. Join us on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Three Hills Airport as we lay the foundation for a brighter future in aviation.
“There has never been a greater need for qualified mission pilots and maintenance engineers than there is right now,” said Brad Bell, president and CEO of Mission Aviation Fellowship Canada. “Because of the lack of space at our current facility, Prairie Aviation Training Centre (PATC), we face for the first time the very real possibility of turning away potential future mission aviators. The expansion of PATC will see the next generation of mission aviators bring help, hope, and healing to a world in need.”
“This is a great day for aviation in Alberta and beyond,” said Mark Maxwell, president of Prairie College. “Expanding the Prairie Aviation Training Centre (PATC) will make it possible for Prairie College and Mission Aviation Fellowship to double the number of pilots trained at PATC to be missional aviators around the world. A big thank you goes out to everyone whose financial gifts have made this visionary work possible.”
Pilot Shortage and Industry Need: Canada is grappling with a severe pilot shortage, intensified by mandatory retirement ages and accelerated by the pandemic. To sustain the growth of our aviation industry and meet the soaring demand for air travel, urgent action is required to replenish the pilot workforce.
MAF’s and Prairie College’s Expansion to Address Shortage: PATC is witnessing an unprecedented surge in applications as aspiring pilots recognize the promising career path. To accommodate this growing demand and ensure no
potential pilot is left behind, PATC is expanding its facilities. MAF’s distinctive flight training programs with a strong biblical foundation at Prairie College, coupled with competitive tuition, position us as a leader in aviation education.
Driving Community Growth: PATC is committed to being a cornerstone of community development. Our expansion will create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and attract new residents and businesses. By investing in the next generation of pilots, we are building a stronger future for our community and the aviation industry.
Cutting-Edge Training for Future Aviators: Our expanded facilities will boast state-of-the-art training equipment and technology, providing students with the best possible preparation for successful aviation careers. MAF is dedicated to fostering innovation and excellence in aviation education.
###
About Prairie Aviation Training Centre:
Prairie Aviation Training Centre is a flight school in Three Hills, Alberta, Canada. It is part of Prairie College and strongly focuses on training pilots for missionary work. However, the program also equips students for careers in the broader aviation industry. PATC offers a two-year aviation program that combines flight training with Bible studies. Graduates earn an Associate of Arts in Mission Aviation and a Commercial Pilot License with multi-engine and instrument ratings. The school emphasizes hands-on training and mentorship from experienced aviators.
About Prairie College:
Prairie College is a private, interdenominational Christian college in Three Hills, Alberta. With a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual discipleship, combined with a genuine and welcoming community, the school offers a formative life-changing experience. With 440+ students from all corners of the globe, 28 programs, and a network of 17,000 alumni, this dynamic campus community is globally minded and driven to meet the greatest needs of the world.
About Mission Aviation Fellowship:
Prairie College is a private, interdenominational Christian college in Three Hills, Alberta. With a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual discipleship, combined with a genuine and welcoming community, the school offers a formative life-changing experience. With 440+ students from all corners of the globe, 28 programs, and a network of 17,000 alumni, this dynamic campus community is globally minded and driven to meet the greatest needs of the world.