(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College Building Construction students are applying their lab skills to build a private testing space in the aviation maintenance program’s east hangar.
“The students are learning two commonly used wall-framing methods in commercial construction while developing skills they can carry into the workforce,” said Alfredo Martinez, a Building Construction instructor, of the dedicated space that will meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.
The project began after TSTC was named a FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) testing site. FAA requirements call for a private, controlled environment for oral and practical examinations.
With 125 aviation maintenance students enrolled and a maximum capacity of 150, the program will use the new space to accommodate certification candidates without interrupting regular hangar operations and lab instruction.
The project also gives the Commercial Building Construction Associate Degree students an opportunity to apply concepts from the Construction Materials and Methods course.
Leonel Hinojosa, a Harlingen native who is pursuing the new associate degree, said the project has helped students develop construction skills while learning the importance of teamwork.
“Working on a team, with different students who have different skill sets, helps prepare everyone for the industry,” he said.
Jacqueline Lopez, who is working toward the same degree, said seeing her work benefit another program at TSTC makes it more meaningful.
“I feel proud,” the Los Fresnos native said. “Everything is a chain reaction. Their program requested our help, and now we are building it for them.”
Carlos Rodriguez, TSTC’s aviation maintenance program team lead, said the collaboration provides benefits for both programs.
“Both programs are contributing to something that will benefit students for years,” he said.
Jose De Leon, owner of South Texas Aviation Services, LLC, said the dedicated space will improve the testing experience for TSTC students, graduates and outside individuals pursuing FAA aviation mechanic certification.
“The space eliminates scheduling conflicts and gives us greater flexibility to accommodate more applicants as the demand grows,” he said.
Registration is underway for the spring semester. For more information, visit TSTC.edu.