THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn., May 16, 2024 – The aviation industry is experiencing a rapid transformation with the
emergence and integration of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and other advanced
technologies. These innovative aircraft are reshaping the way we think about air travel, but they also exacerbate
an existing challenge within the aerospace industry: a shortage of highly skilled technicians with the knowledge and
skills to maintain and repair them. Northland Community & Technical College and the National Center for
Autonomous Technologies (NCAT) are proud to announce their reception of a NASA grant for the initiation of the
Revolutionizing Aviation Maintenance Ecosystems (Rev AME) research project. This project aims to define the
knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft technicians, bridging the
current gap in aviation maintenance technician qualifications. AAM is envisioned to positively impact communities
through uses including urban air taxi services, rural rapid medical transport, and aerial package delivery
The long-term value of Rev AME will transform aerospace maintenance training, ensuring that the workforce is
prepared to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Through Rev AME, Northland and NCAT are committed to
contributing significantly to the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the aerospace industry.
Northland and NCAT are committed to research and innovation, which makes a valuable contribution to Northwest
Minnesota. Through initiatives like Rev AME, Northland and NCAT bolster the region’s workforce and economic
resilience. By collaborating with industry and government partners and adhering to regulatory standards, they
ensure that graduates are not only well-prepared for the demands of today’s aviation industry but also equipped to
navigate emerging technologies and industry trends, driving innovation and growth throughout the region.
The National Center for Autonomous Technologies is headquartered at Northland Community & Technical College
and serves as a resource hub for evidence-based research, such as the Rev AME. The Collaboratory recipients of
the NASA Grant include lead institution Clemson University, Southern Illinois University, Aviation Technician
Education Council, and Utah Valley University.
About Northland Community & Technical College
Northland Community & Technical College is a comprehensive college with campuses in East Grand Forks,
Minnesota, and Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Northland also has an aerospace site in Thief River Falls, Minnesota,
and campus extension sites in Roseau, Minnesota, and Warroad, Minnesota. Northland offers certificates,
diplomas, transfer courses, and two-year degrees (A.A.S., A.S., A.A.) in more than 80 areas of study, workforce
training, and education programs. Northland is a member of Minnesota State, the third-largest system of two-year
colleges and four-year universities in the United States, and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of
the North Central Association. For more information about Northland Community & Technical College and its
Aviation Maintenance Programs, visit www.northlandcollege.edu. To learn more about Rev AME and NCAT, contact
us at ncat@northlandcollege.edu or visit ncatech.org.
