Setting an example: State education secretary tours Franklin Tech aviation program

April 20, 2026 - 03:24

Massachusetts Secretary of Education Stephen Zrike Jr. toured the Franklin County Technical School on Monday, gaining a firsthand look at the school's Aviation Maintenance Technology Program. The visit highlighted the state's commitment to career and technical education as a vital pathway for students.

During the tour, Secretary Zrike explored the program's dedicated aviation hangar, observing students as they worked on aircraft components and engaged with the sophisticated curriculum. He spoke with both instructors and students about their experiences, the skills being mastered, and the direct connection between their training and high-demand careers in the aerospace industry.

Officials emphasized that programs like these are critical in addressing workforce shortages in technical fields. They provide students with industry-recognized certifications and practical, hands-on learning that leads directly to well-paying jobs or further education. The visit served to underscore the value of state investment in technical school infrastructure and programming.

Secretary Zrike's engagement with the school community aimed to spotlight successful educational models that prepare a skilled workforce. The Aviation Maintenance Technology Program at Franklin Tech stands as a prime example of how technical education equips students with the expertise needed for immediate career opportunities in specialized, growing sectors of the economy.