The Burlington Technical Center’s new Aviation, Career & Technical Education center represents a transformative investment in hands-on career and technical education for students across the region.
Partially funded by a $10 million federal grant championed by former U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, the project revitalized a long-neglected airplane hangar at the Burlington International Airport. What was once an underutilized industrial structure has been reimagined as a vibrant, modern educational center—made possible through a collaborative effort between the Burlington School District, DEW Construction, Freeman French Freeman Architects, and hundreds of skilled tradespeople.
The comprehensive renovation included transforming the expansive open hangar and existing mezzanine into specialized instructional spaces tailored to contemporary technical training needs.
The new design incorporates:
- Dedicated aviation classrooms for theoretical and applied instruction
- Advanced flight simulator labs for realistic, hands-on pilot training
- Fully equipped aviation maintenance and repair workshops
- Manufacturing and fabrication labs supporting cutting-edge technology and industry practices
- A woodworking shop designed for precision craftsmanship
- Automotive technology bays for real-world diagnostics, repair, and maintenance training
- Designated aircraft storage areas integrated into the educational workflow
The result is a dynamic, future-ready technical center that empowers students with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to enter high-skill careers. This transformation not only strengthens workforce development in Vermont but also breathes new life into an important airport facility—creating an inspiring hub where education meets industry.
