Write Your Own Success Story
PIA has been preparing young people for successful careers in aviation and related industries since 1929. Today, graduates of our aviation maintenance program work for secure, fast-growing and forward-looking companies, and government agencies.
“I never anticipated that I would be traveling within the United States, let alone internationally,” explains Mandy Morrison.
Brazil, Mexico and Canada are just a few of the places that Mandy’s job takes her. As an aircraft induction and refurb manager, she’s responsible for the inspection, test flights and delivery of the aircraft to the facility whenever her employer, Flight Options, purchases a new aircraft.
While a student at PIA, she was one of the few females in her class. Aviation is still a predominately male field; however, that hasn’t interfered with Mandy’s career. She says that, “gender isn’t an issue. I’m here to do a job. It doesn’t matter that I’m a woman.”
Mandy Morrison, ’02 graduate
Aircraft Induction and Refurb Manager
Flight Options
“Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to be around airplanes,” says Mike Grantz. It should be no surprise that Mike ended up at PIA, graduated with his Associate Degree in AMT in 2003 and is now working in aviation.
He started working at Integrated Deicing Services part time, while studying at PIA. Mike became full time once he graduated and has received steady promotions over the years. He now oversees the deicing responsibilities for 500 daily flights out of the Pittsburgh and Minneapolis airports.
According to Mike, the best thing about PIA is that it gave him a comprehensive understanding of the aviation industry.
Mike Grantz, ’03 graduate
Manager of Product Development
Integrated Deicing Services