LAUNCH Showcases Aviation Technician Training and Workforce Development Programs at MRO Americas
Oak Brook, IL — April 22, 2026 — As the aviation industry continues to address a growing shortage of qualified aircraft maintenance technicians, LAUNCH Technical Workforce Solutions is highlighting its technician training and workforce development initiatives during MRO Americas 2026.
LAUNCH recently announced the opening of their Modification & Training Center of Excellence in Wichita, KS, designed to provide hands-on technical instruction across a wide range of aircraft systems. The program is structured to help individuals entering the aviation industry build practical maintenance skills, while also supporting experienced technicians seeking to advance their capabilities.
Training programs cover airframe systems, avionics fundamentals, structures, cabin systems, aircraft modification practices, and more, allowing participants to gain real-world exposure to the types of work performed across airline maintenance and modification environments.
“Our industry’s success depends on building a strong pipeline of skilled aviation technicians,” said Mike Reporto, Group President & Chief Commercial Officer. “We’re focused on creating programs that not only train individuals on the technical aspects of aircraft maintenance but also provide clear pathways for long-term career development within the industry.”
LAUNCH’s training programs also include English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) support, which helps international technicians strengthen communication skills that are essential in highly regulated aviation maintenance environments.
In addition to hands-on technical training, LAUNCH has developed programs designed to help technicians navigate the process of obtaining their Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification, including mentorship, structured training hours, and exam preparation support.
During MRO Americas, Mike Reporto will participate in the event’s Student Program Fireside Chat, where industry leaders will be speaking to high school and college students to share insights on working in the MRO industry, tips on how to succeed in the industry, and share learnings from their own experiences.
Beyond training initiatives, LAUNCH is also adopting new technologies to modernize how technicians are recruited and connected with airline and MRO partners. These initiatives include the use of advanced digital tools and AI-assisted recruiting processes designed to streamline candidate presentation, improve project staffing timelines, and provide greater visibility for customers evaluating technical talent.
“Our focus is not only on developing technicians but also on improving how the industry connects skilled professionals with the projects that need them,” added Marco Nogueira, Senior Vice President of Quality & Technical Development.
Through these combined efforts, LAUNCH Technical Workforce Solutions aims to strengthen the aviation workforce pipeline while helping airlines and maintenance organizations access the skilled technicians required to support growing global fleets.
About LAUNCH Technical Workforce Solutions
LAUNCH is the leading provider of technical workforce solutions, reshaping how airlines, MROs, and OEMs grow and manage their technical needs. In addition to offering labor services, LAUNCH Mobile Repair Teams combine experienced leadership with skilled technicians to provide project-specific solutions that carry out maintenance and modification efforts. The Company’s Part 145 Modification Center supports various project-based aircraft modifications, ADs, reliability checks, among other service offerings. The Company’s focus on building strong partnerships has enabled it to develop a reliable pipeline of mechanics for current and future aviation maintenance needs. LAUNCH is a portfolio company of Capitol Meridian Partners. To learn more about LAUNCH, visit www.launchtws.com.
