Textron Aviation Hosts U.S. Transportation Secretary and Senator for Aviation Workforce Expansion Tour, Here is What You Need to Know

Published on December 22, 2025

In a pivotal step towards strengthening the aviation workforce, Textron Aviation recently hosted U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran for an insightful tour of its state-of-the-art Career & Learning Center. This event highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to expanding the aviation talent pipeline and fostering a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the aerospace industry in the United States.

Textron Aviation’s Career & Learning Center represents an investment of more than $40 million, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to consolidate employee application, training and development processes. By unifying these critical functions under one roof, the center aims to accelerate employee readiness and provide both prospective and current employees with a world-class learning environment. This facility is expected to play a key role in Textron Aviation’s efforts to support long-term career success and ensure that the company remains a leader in aviation innovation and safety.

A Focus on Workforce Development in the U.S. Aviation Industry

Maggie Topping, Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Communications at Textron Aviation, emphasized the importance of a skilled workforce for the growth and prosperity of Kansas’ economy. She explained that by investing in people, Textron Aviation is contributing to the overall strength and competitiveness of the U.S. aerospace industry. Topping further emphasized that the company’s investment in workforce development helps to ensure that both the community and the aviation sector remain strong, innovative and prepared for future challenges.

The Career & Learning Center offers a cutting-edge space for employees to access the resources and training necessary for professional development in the aerospace field. Textron Aviation’s commitment to strengthening the workforce is not just about creating jobs but also about ensuring that those who are hired receive the training and support they need to succeed in their careers. This initiative is aligned with the company’s broader strategy to remain at the forefront of the aviation industry and address the skills gap that many sectors are currently facing in the U.S.

Support for FAA Workforce Development Programs

During the visit, Textron Aviation took the opportunity to recognize and express its appreciation to Secretary Duffy for his continued support of the aviation industry. Specifically, the company thanked him for his efforts to improve the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification process, which is essential for maintaining safety standards and fostering innovation in the aviation sector. By streamlining the FAA certification process, Textron Aviation believes that both safety and product development will continue to improve, benefiting the entire aerospace industry.

Textron Aviation also acknowledged Senator Jerry Moran, Chair of the Aviation Subcommittee on Senate Commerce, for his tireless support of FAA Workforce Development Programs. These programs are critical for expanding training pathways, increasing career opportunities and ensuring that the U.S. remains competitive in the global aerospace market. Moran’s advocacy for these initiatives has played a vital role in enhancing the aviation talent pipeline and Textron Aviation expressed its gratitude for his leadership in these efforts.

Aviation’s Role in Expanding U.S. Workforce Capabilities

Textron Aviation’s investment in the Career & Learning Center is part of a broader trend in the U.S. aviation industry to address workforce shortages and ensure that the next generation of aviation professionals is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, Textron Aviation is taking proactive steps to ensure that its employees have the tools, resources and support they need to excel in their roles.

By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, Textron Aviation is helping to shape the future of the U.S. aviation workforce. The company’s investment in training and development underscores its commitment to long-term success, not only for the company but for the entire aerospace industry. As the U.S. aviation sector continues to expand, Textron Aviation’s role in building a skilled workforce will be crucial in maintaining the country’s position as a global leader in aerospace innovation.

The visit from Secretary Duffy and Senator Moran further solidified Textron Aviation’s position as a key player in workforce development in the U.S. aerospace sector. With continued investment in training and employee development, the company is helping to ensure that the U.S. aviation industry remains competitive, innovative and ready for the future.

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