Information from South Seattle College

South Seattle College (SSC), in collaboration with the Port of Seattle, has launched a certificate program in Airport Ground Support Equipment, the first publicly offered training program of its kind in the United States. The program was created to address industry labor shortages and respond to airport workers’ requests for upskilling opportunities.  

Offered through SSC’s Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology program, the certificate trains students to maintain and repair the specialized machinery used to service aircraft on the tarmac, helping ensure smooth and efficient airport operations. 

"Since opening our doors in 1969, South Seattle College has proudly built a strong foundation in skilled trade programs designed to meet industry needs and create career opportunities for the students we serve,” said Dr. Monica Brown, President of SSC. “The Airport Ground Support Equipment program carries this legacy forward, and we are deeply grateful to the Port of Seattle, Port Jobs and our industry partners for helping make this program a reality." 

“This program reflects our commitment to expanding access to high-quality technical education that leads to in-demand jobs,” said Ferdinand Orbino, Dean of Skilled Trades at SSC. “By listening to the needs of both industry and our community, we’re creating innovative training opportunities that empower students and help meet critical workforce gaps.”  

The certificate takes three full-time quarters to complete and prepares students for careers such as airport ground support equipment technicians, heavy equipment technicians, high-voltage electrical technicians, and mechanical maintenance engineers.  

The program is built on strong industry partnerships, including the Port of Seattle, Port Jobs & Airport University, Paccar, Peterbilt Motors Company, Kenworth Truck Company, Daifuku Co., Ltd., Alaska Airlines and United Airlines. 

“We have made it a priority for the Port of Seattle to invest in communities experiencing the deepest economic disparities; providing these sorts of trainings and certificates is making it possible for entry-level SEA airport workers to move towards quality wage careers,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Hamdi Mohamed. “These positions are in-demand and crucial to operating the airfield smoothly and efficiently. The Port has previously invested in a short-term training for Ground Support Equipment Mechanics, which has contributed to the creation of this three-quarter program at South Seattle College.” 

“South Seattle College deserves recognition for this first-of-its-kind program,” said Heather Worthley, Port Jobs Executive Director. “Students will gain valuable skill sets, and workers will advance in their careers as the essential equipment that keeps airport running benefits from quality-trained maintenance technicians. Port Jobs is a proud partner in this exciting effort, recruiting and supporting airport workers for the bridge class at SEA.” 

The program is open to all interested individuals, regardless of prior experience.