-HANCEVILLE AL - Military veterans interested in an aviation career can utilize the post 9/11 GI Bill of last December to enroll in Wallace State Community College's Flight Technology program now.
Veterans who have served at least three years (36 months) of active duty since Sept. 11, 2001 can be eligible to receive up to 100 percent of their costs in airplane and helicopter training. A housing stipend is also available to those who are eligible.
"It's an excellent opportunity for those who are eligible. It will pay for tuition, fees and aircraft rental," said Marsha Bradford of the WSCC Flight Technology program. "We've been getting calls from states as far away as Ohio and Colorado. Once students are enrolled into the program they are given 36 months to complete it. It's important that veterans apply for their Post 9-11 benefits early. Sometimes it can take up to six weeks to receive their Letter of Eligibility and there is not much we can do prior to having that letter in-hand."
For those veterans seeking only a license or rating, Wallace State can enroll them in the Vocational Flight Training program.
Veterans who lack three years of service since 9/11 are still eligible for assistance at a prorated amount.
The post 9/11 legislation is titled S.3447 and was passed because the airline industry is forecasting a shortage of pilots in upcoming years.
Wallace State offers flight training in both airplane and helicopter. Registration for spring semester began November 28 and continues through late registration cut-off date of January 11, 2012.
For more information about the post 9/11 qualifications, please contact Mrs. Bradford or WSCC Flight Technology Department Head Bert Mackentepe at 256-737-3040 or 1-800-238-6681
Whether you're a veteran or not, contact Wallace State for information about enrolling in their Professional Pilot Training Program. -Wallace State Community College Flight Technology