More than 45 students from Delaware County Community College’s (DCCC) Skilled Trades Program visited Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) on Sept. 23 to explore career possibilities in plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), carpentry, auto, and mechanical.

DCCC’s Workforce & Economic Development Division supports employers and students in Delaware, Chester, and surrounding Counties with programs aligned with the workforce needs of regional employers. The PHL tour was hosted by the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Aviation, which owns and operates PHL.

Accompanied by DCCC faculty and staff and PHL Department of Aviation leaders, the students visited the airport’s maintenance facilities, central utility building, and mechanical room. The group also had the opportunity to speak directly with Interim Vice President of Facilities Maintenance Milton Robinson and Manager of Airport Facilities James Jones and learn about the variety of careers available at PHL.

Starting salaries for current openings for the City of Philadelphia range from $57,826 to $63,820 per year for plumbers; $48,9990 to $53,761 per year for electricians; $57,826 to $63,820 per year for HVAC mechanics; $47,922 to $52,519 per year for carpenters and $46,734 to $51,124 for automotive maintenance technicians.

After the tour, the guests heard presentations from several Department of Aviation leaders, including Chief Administrative Officer Delicsha Wilds; Vice President of Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Donna Jackson Stephans; Director of Community Relations and Outreach Keesha Lane; and Director of Workforce Development Chevelle Harrison. PHL Human Resources team members shared information on the perks and benefits that come with working for the City of Philadelphia, the hiring process, and general practices. 

“It was a great day for our students,” said Jennifer Orazi, DCCC’s Dean of Workforce & Economic Development. “The team went above and beyond to welcome the students and give them a snapshot of what it’s like to work at PHL.”

DCCC’s Workforce & Economic Development Division regularly brings DCCC Skilled Trades students to on-site tours at the headquarters of regional employers. For more on DCCC’s Skilled Trades offerings, visit DCCC or call Orazi at 610-359-5306.  

Learn more at DCCC.