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Promotes Lentz to Technical Trainer at GJT

West Star is pleased to announce the promotion of Leonard Lentz as Aviation Technical Trainer at their Grand Junction, CO (GJT) location. In his new role he will develop a training culture for technicians that promote professional growth and success. The program will focus on initiatives related to technical training, development, mentoring and career advancement, along with continuing some NDT duties for training and certification.

Leonard has over 43 years in aircraft maintenance and repair, 32 of those with West Star, previously as NDT Lead. He holds a variety of professional training certifications covering such diverse subjects as Continental Engine Maintenance; Learjet 30 series maintenance; Initial and recurrent training for FAA Designation for Mechanic Examiner, Airframe and Powerplant; and numerous other courses related to common methods of Nondestructive testing. He earned an Associate in Science degree in Aircraft Maintenance and obtained an FAA Airframe and Powerplant License from Reedley College in California.

“It’s an exciting time at Grand Junction to have Leonard Lentz named as Aviation Maintenance Trainer,” said Dave Krogman, General Manager (GJT). “This newly added position recognizes our company’s growth and evolution and having someone of Leonard’s caliber with his knowledge and experience, makes him an excellent choice for the position.”

“I started my career in the aviation industry in 1979 as an aircraft mechanic. I have been fortunate to work alongside many great mentors and have been awarded many opportunities to learn and develop throughout my career,” said Lentz, Technical Trainer (GJT). “My goal is to develop an experience that inspires every current and future West Star teammate to reach their full potential through training and development.”

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Contact Us

WSAA will be piloted at the East Alton, IL facility with the first round of apprentices anticipated to start in January 2024. For more information on West Star Aviation employment or WSAA apprentice selection criteria, please visit www.weststaraviation.com/careers or contact Katie Johnson (katiejohnson@wsa.aero) or Dave Lagermann (dlagermann@wsa.aero).

Application & Selection Process

Before applying, please be aware of the standards of conduct for employment with West Star along with the strict requirements below while attending WSAA.

  • Working in Aviation requires a commit to being drug-free.  Pre-employment drug testing along with random and reasonable suspicion testing is required for all companies employing people working in safety sensitive positions. The position you are considering applying for is safety sensitive.  If hired, you must pass a DOT drug test to start working, if you fail the job offer is rescinded.  If you pass, you must remain drug-free during employment, failing a random or reasonable suspicion test may result in termination of employment.  Please note: marijuana is legal in certain states however the FAA follows Federal law where marijuana is illegal.  This means testing positive for marijuana, or any other illegal drug, will prevent you from working in Aviation. 
  • The first 7.5 months will follow a strict schedule: Monday – Friday 7:00am – 3:30pm (breaks and meal periods provided). 
  • The expectation is to arrive inside the learning center and clocked in at 7:00am.
  • While attending WSAA, no more than 4 hours a week can be missed.  Extenuating medical circumstances will be given full consideration with supporting documentation.
  • WSAA follows an FAA approved curriculum which has certain requirements including attendance. 
  • Testing for the FAA license at the conclusion of WSAA is required, along with passing.  Two opportunities to test will be provided, if needed.  Employment may terminate if the FAA license is not obtained.
  • Candidates will be contacted to complete pre-screening assessments and questionnaires. 
  • Qualified candidates will be contacted in late November and scheduled for a tour and interview with Hiring Managers at West Star Aviation in East Alton, IL.
  • To be qualified, candidates must pass the pre-screening process along with submitting a negative DOT drug test result.
  • Finalists will be selected after onsite interviews. Job offers will be extended in mid-December with a start date of January 9, 2024.
  • Pay while learning in the Academy will be $20 per hour.  Upon successfully graduating and obtaining your FAA license, pay will increase to $27 per hour.