Miramar College’s Federal Aviation Administration-approved program is the only low-tuition option of its kind in the region, training students for careers as mechanics, pilots, and aviation technicians. A new aviation facility planned at Montgomery Field will also help train the next generation of air traffic controllers.
These students can save tens of thousands of dollars compared to traditional four-year universities, opening the door to a wide range of high-demand careers with good pay and benefits. These are opportunities that can change lives.
Brandon Wasliewski is one of those students, a former pizza maker with a passion for racecars who had struggled in school and finished high school a semester late. At 33, he’s now on track to graduate at the top of his class in aeronautics and aviation, with his sights set on a career as an aviation mechanic.
Earlier this year, he traveled to Atlanta to represent Miramar College at Verticon 2026, a global aviation conference, where he competed in a high-stakes skills challenge against top aviation programs, including military teams.
Aviation, he said, represents a turning point. “For the first time in my life,” he shared, “I can say I’m proud of myself.”
Miramar’s affordable aviation program opens doors to many exciting careers, but even with lower tuition costs, some students still face financial challenges when additional expenses such as FAA licensing exams, testing fees, tools and supplies are factored in.
Through donor support, the Foundation has established an Aviation Testing Fees Fund to help students cover these expenses, which can total up to $1,500 per student. This assistance helps bridge the financial gap and empowers talented students like Brandon to achieve their dreams. Donations can be made to support this fund on the Foundation’s website by choosing “Aviation Testing Scholarship” from the menu.
Learn more about Brandon’s story in this SDCCD’s Q&A:
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