The Greater Sacramento region is expected to see its aviation sector grow by 16% over the next five years, according to an April 27 announcement. While aviation currently accounts for only a small portion of total regional employment, this growth rate is significantly higher than the average for other sectors.
This trend matters because aviation offers strong wages and clear career pathways, making it an important option for both educators and workforce development partners. The Fall 2025 Aviation Careers Regional Advisory brought together educators, employers, and workforce leaders to discuss how best to prepare future workers for these opportunities. Participants agreed that while the sector is small today, it plays a vital role in the local economy and provides middle-skill jobs that can support long-term economic mobility.
Currently, there are about 4,300 private sector aviation jobs in the region focused on air transportation, support activities for air transportation, and aircraft manufacturing. Most new roles are expected in middle-skill occupations requiring postsecondary education but not necessarily a four-year degree. Wages in these fields are notably higher than regional averages: aircraft manufacturing pays around $134,900 annually; air transportation about $92,700; and support activities approximately $82,500.
Community colleges play a key role in training workers for these positions through programs like aircraft maintenance and avionics. Ebony Benzing of the California Community Colleges North/Far North Center of Excellence said program completion rates currently fall short of industry demand and highlighted the need to expand capacity. Employers at the advisory event reported high demand for technical roles such as mechanics and technicians but also stressed that professionalism and adaptability are essential qualities.
Sacramento City College’s aviation maintenance technician program was recently awarded Federal Aviation Administration certification. This makes it one of the main providers of FAA-certified training locally—a critical resource as demand grows for certified mechanics. Federal Aviation Administration funding supports training infrastructure while its requirements shape curriculum standards across institutions.
Despite strong prospects in aviation careers—including entry-level positions with advancement potential—barriers remain such as non-traditional work schedules or shortages of certified instructors limiting access or growth within the field. Advisory participants noted untapped entry points into business aviation or airport operations where on-the-job training is available along with advancement opportunities.
