News release prepared by: Natalie Blair, 785-826-2642, nblair@k-state.edu

Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2010

STUDENTS, FACULTY IN K-STATE'S AVIONICS PROGRAM EARN INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION

SALINA -- Four Kansas State University at Salina avionics students and two instructors have earned industry certifications from the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technology.

Students earning certifications include:

John Charbonneau, sophomore in aviation maintenance, Manhattan, Foreign Object Elimination and Aircraft Electronics Technician certifications; Rodger Jameson, senior in aviation maintenance, Salina, Aircraft Electronics Technician certification; Robin Suprenant, senior in aviation maintenance, Cochise, Ariz., Foreign Object Elimination certification; and Allan Richardson, senior in aviation maintenance, Adams, Neb., Foreign Object Elimination and Aircraft Electronics Technician certifications.

Evan Beckman, instructor of aviation maintenance, earned the Aircraft Electronics Technician certificate. He already has the Foreign Object Elimination certificate.

Raylene Alexander, assistant professor of aviation maintenance, earned the Foreign Object Elimination certification, and added a third endorsement in Onboard Communication and Safety Systems to her Aircraft Electronics Technician certification. She also has endorsements in Dependent Navigation Systems and Radio Communication Systems.

"It is important that the K-State avionics faculty stay current with technology and with industry-endorsed certificates," Alexander said.

The Aircraft Electronics Technician certification recognizes the core knowledge of an aircraft electronics/avionics technician that is common across the industry in fields that include air carriers, cargo transportation, corporate flight departments, fixed-based operators, manufacturers, the military and repair stations.

The Foreign Object Elimination certification demonstrates an understanding of standardized safety practices in the aerospace industry. The certification can apply to all areas of the aerospace industry, including personnel outside of the technical field. Damage from foreign objects costs the industry $4 billion to $6 billion each year.

According to the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technology, the certifications demonstrate an advanced aerospace technician's ability to promote integrity, safety and professionalism in the work force.