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For high school students in Miami-Dade County dreaming of a high-paying, hands-on career in aviation, George T. Baker Aviation Technical College offers a practical pathway — without the burden of student debt or the need for a four-year degree. Now, thanks to a growing network of dual enrollment programs with local high schools, that opportunity is closer than ever.
Through partnerships with select Miami-Dade County Public Schools, George T. Baker has launched aviation programs directly within local high schools. The newest career dual enrollment site is located on the Sunset Senior High School campus, where the George T. Baker Aviation Technical College Extension Campus opened recently. This new extension campus serves students residing in the southern end of Miami-Dade County.
The new extension campus includes two retrofitted classrooms, a workshop, and “Stubby”— a half-plane engine used for mechanical training.
“We are incredibly excited to unveil our new extension campus, a testament to our dedication to providing top-tier aviation education,” said Rene Mantilla, assistant superintendent of M-DCPS. “This expansion allows us to increase our capacity to train more aspiring aviation mechanics and offer a space that simulates real-world industry environments.”
At Miami Springs Senior High School, students enrolled in the Avionics Program learn to install, maintain, and repair electronic systems in aircraft — including navigation, communication, radar, and flight control technologies. The school’s avionics training area now includes two flight simulators and advanced diagnostic equipment.
The programs also offer foundational courses in electricity, enabling students to earn electrical certifications and qualify for jobs straight out of high school — including roles at companies like Disney, where knowledge of hydraulic and electrical systems is essential.
Earlier this year, George T. Baker partnered with American Airlines to provide students with internships and potential job placements in avionics, powerplant, or airframe specialties.
“We’re collaborating to ensure we give our young people — and even some of our adult learners — the opportunities we didn’t have,” said Evita Garces, vice president of Line Maintenance at American Airlines. “There will be over 130,000 openings in the next 15 years for jobs where you can start with a six-figure salary — and we provide the training.”
Students are already seeing the benefits.
“If you know what you’re doing, it’s a guaranteed job for us at a young age,” said Ryan Espinosa, a student at George T. Baker. “I’m really thankful to Miami-Dade County Public Schools for supporting me throughout this journey. I’ve received three scholarships.”
Miami Springs Senior High School assistant principal Liliana Suarez noted that students also will have opportunities to visit Miami International Airport, work alongside technicians, and make connections that could lead to employment before graduation.
“Our students will give presentations and participate in various field trips — including visits to the airport — where they’ll explore real-world career opportunities,” Suarez said.
With the aviation industry rapidly evolving and demand for skilled professionals on the rise, George T. Baker’s extension campuses are helping students take flight — both literally and figuratively. And with more dual enrollment programs on the horizon, the next one could be coming to your local high school.
Providing students with training in high-demand, cutting-edge industries like aviation — and giving them a pathway to employment — is just one more reason why Miami-Dade County Public Schools is your best choice.
Alissa Tapia is director, George T. Baker Aviation Technical College, Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
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