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Amid the Global Workforce Shortage, Opportunities Fly High for Military Veterans at Van Nuys Airport

(Los Angeles, Calif. – June 19, 2023) Across the nation, aircraft mechanics and pilots are retiring faster than they can be replaced. At Van Nuys Airport (VNY), one of the world’s busiest general aviation airports, career opportunities for former U.S. military members are soaring.

To recognize airport employee veterans for their military service and attract those who are transitioning to civilian careers, VNY will launch a virtual Veterans Honor Wall on July 4 (www.vnyhonorwall.com), sponsored by the non-profit Van Nuys Airport Association (VNAA).

“As the entire aviation industry faces a shortage of qualified workers, Van Nuys Airport businesses are honored to offer meaningful employment opportunities to those who have served our country in uniform,” said VNAA President Curt Castagna. “Their military experience has enabled them to develop the skills, leadership, discipline and teamwork needed to join the airport’s diverse workforce, on the ground or in the air.”

The Aviation Technician Education Council, dedicated to promoting and supporting technician education, reports that an increase in newly certified aircraft mechanics last year did not offset the loss of significant talent during the pandemic. It predicts the aircraft mechanic pipeline in the U.S. will need to increase by at least 20% to meet projected workforce demand.

The aviation industry also continues to struggle with a significant pilot shortage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates there will be 18,000 openings per year for commercial pilots this decade, with many of those replacing retirees. However, the number of commercial pilot certificates issued by the Federal Aviation Administration totaled only 13,715 in 2022 and 12,771 in 2021 – indicating an ongoing labor shortfall.

“Hiring military veterans for prosperous airport careers is critical for the future success of the entire aviation industry,” said VNY Airport Manager Paul Herrera. “There are exciting employment opportunities for air traffic controllers, pilots, aircraft mechanics, avionics and line service technicians, cabin service attendants and other airport occupations, including federal and local public safety personnel. Los Angeles World Airports is proud to work in partnership with our tenants to grow the next generation of airport professionals and address the national workforce need.”

VNY is distinguished as one of the world’s busiest general aviation airports, a leading local employer and a vital contributor to the Southern California economy.  Founded in 1928, it served as a military base and vital defense manufacturing center during World War II, and was home to the California Air National Guard for four decades. It was also the place where legendary entertainer Bob Hope launched his final USO tour for troops stationed overseas. With an annual economic impact of $2 billion, it currently supports over 10,000 jobs and provides a base for life-saving air ambulance, firefighting, public service and humanitarian missions.

To meet an airport employee hero or submit a hero for inclusion on the VNY Veterans Honor Wall, please visit www.vnyhonorwall.com.

How to Find a Job

Veterans can visit individual VNY company websites or use the CareerOneStop Job Finder tool, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, to search for local aviation employment opportunities. This website compiles daily job listings from the National Labor Exchange, Indeed and ZipRecruiter.

About the Van Nuys Airport Association (VNAA)

The VNAA is a non-profit membership organization representing the more than 5,300 employees and 200 businesses that call Van Nuys Airport home. Its mission is to promote aviation, preserve business and protect jobs in the community. Together, its members strive to set the industry standard for safety, security, sustainability and service. For more information, visit www.thevnaa.org.