Airplane are pretty cool. Just aske Wesley Maxwell

“Airplanes are pretty cool. There really isn't more than that!”

That's how Tinora student Wesley Maxwell describes his love for aviation, and it's a passion that's already opening doors for his future!

Recently, Wesley joined fellow Tinora students Josh Moser, Kaylin Bannister, and Braylon Nicely at TAS Aviation at the Defiance County Airport for a closer look at careers in aviation.

During their visit, students learned about aircraft maintenance, piloting, and what it takes to earn an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license. They also got hands-on experience performing compression tests and practicing safety wiring.

Wesley, who is currently an A&P apprentice with TAS Aviation, had the opportunity to sit on a Q&A panel and share his experiences with the other students.

“My favorite part of being an apprentice is finding and fixing problems. I'm a very hands-on person, and I enjoy taking stuff apart and putting them back together,” Wesley shared.

He also enjoys encouraging other students to consider careers in aerospace, hoping they'll discover the same excitement he has found in the field.

Looking ahead, Wesley plans to pursue a mechanical engineering degree with a focus in aerospace at Ohio Northern University. He also hopes to continue working with TAS Aviation and earn his A&P license.

What began as a simple interest in airplanes has turned into an opportunity for Wesley to gain valuable experience while still in high school.

Thank you to TAS Aviation for welcoming our Tinora students and giving them the opportunity to learn more about the aviation industry!

Tinora Students at Defiance AirportTinora Student sitting in planeTinora Student standing next to a planeTinora Students Learning about planesTinora Students at Defiance Airport