Avionica USA Provides Job-Ready Avionics Skills

for a Fast-Track into Aviation

The first time you step into the Avionics Technician Program (ATP), offered by Avionica USA in partnership with UCF Global, it doesn't feel like a typical classroom. There's a quiet hum of equipment, the glint of wiring laid out with precision, and the sense that everything around you serves a real purpose, because it does. This is where students begin to transform their curiosity about aviation into practical, job-ready skills.

From the start, the program immerses students in the world of aircraft electronics. Instead of learning concepts in isolation, they're introduced to the systems that keep aircraft connected, navigated, and safe in the air. Navigation and communication systems are no longer abstract ideas; they become tangible through hands-on work. Students handle wiring, assemble connectors, and build wire harnesses with the kind of care required in real aircraft environments. Schematics and diagrams, once intimidating, gradually turn into readable maps that guide their work.

As the weeks progress, the foundation deepens. Students explore basic electronics, including AC and DC systems, circuits, and the tools professionals rely on, such as multimeters. They move beyond fundamentals into modern aviation technology, including fiber optics and NextGen systems, gaining exposure to the innovations shaping the future of flight. At the same time, they learn that technical skill alone isn't enough. Aviation safety, quality control, and human factors are woven into every lesson, reinforcing the responsibility that comes with working on aircraft systems.

By the time students begin installing and testing avionics equipment, radios, transponders, and ADS-B systems, they're no longer just learning; they're doing. Each connection made and each system tested mirrors real-world tasks, building both confidence and competence. Alongside this hands-on experience, the program prepares students for industry-recognized credentials, including FCC licenses, with the option to pursue the NCATT AET certification, further strengthening their professional profile.

What makes the ATP especially accessible is its structure. Designed to fit different schedules, it offers both weekday and Saturday classes, all within an intensive three-month, 12-week timeframe. In just 72 training hours, students complete a focused journey that equips them with practical skills and a clear direction forward.

Graduation doesn't feel like an ending; it feels like a beginning. Students step into the workforce ready to install, inspect, and repair aircraft electronic systems. They find themselves working with radios, radar, and navigation equipment, performing the kind of troubleshooting and maintenance that keeps aviation running smoothly. Opportunities open across aviation, aerospace, and related industries, supported by job placement assistance and valuable industry connections.

For many, the program becomes a turning point, a fast track into a field that demands precision, skill, and passion. If you're ready to build real-world avionics expertise and take a decisive step into the aviation industry, the next chapter starts here. Visit AvionicaUSA.com to learn more.

Employee Spotlight: Naomi Pitter,

Air Traffic Control Specialist

This month, we're shining the spotlight on Naomi Pitter, who serves as an Air Traffic Control Specialist at Kissimmee Gateway Airport. Having joined the team in October of last year, Naomi provides air traffic control services to everyone flying in or through Kissimmee's Class D airspace. 

When asked what she enjoys the most about working here, she mentions the great team she gets to work with every day and the magic of the nearby theme parks. "One thing I enjoy most here is the team I get to work with in the tower, and getting to see the Disney fireworks show during closing shifts. Our operation here is unique in my opinion because of our location. Central FL is a popular destination for its theme parks. It makes me smile seeing passengers heading out with their Disney ears, Disney bags & smiles on their faces knowing that we helped get them here and back safely." 

Regarding the overall airport experience for passengers, Naomi feels that the work she and her team does is important to the overall experience because "without it, I imagine operations would be a little chaotic. With the amount of training schools, service centers, recreational flying & jet travel in and out of Kissimmee, having us here ensures another level of safety for every person who comes through here." 

As for what's next in store for Naomi, she is happy to be back in her home state. "I picture myself being here in Kissimmee for the foreseeable future. I enjoy what I do, have fun with the people I work with, and love being back in my home state after a decade away." 

We thank Naomi and her team for their invaluable contributions to a safely run operation here at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, and look forward to a future with Naomi on the team!

Expanding Operational Capabilities with New Technology: New Drones Now Part of Daily Operations

Airport Operations is expanding its capabilities from the ground to the sky by incorporating drone technology into daily operations. Trained staff will use drones to capture aerial views that support a wide range of inspections aimed at improving safety, security, and preventative maintenance. These drones will assist with airfield inspections, stormwater drainage monitoring, wildlife mitigation, security assessments, roof inspections, marketing efforts, and emergency management.

Using drones will significantly reduce the time, labor, and resources required for tasks that traditionally take hours and may involve safety risks, such as roof inspections that require boom lifts, ladders, rental equipment, and careful navigation to avoid falls. This technology will also be invaluable during post‑hurricane damage assessments. After Hurricane Ian in 2022, large portions of the airfield and surrounding access roads were flooded. With drones, Operations can quickly determine which roads are passable and assess airfield conditions to support staging or recovery efforts if the airport is needed for emergency response.

Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University Students Visit Airport for Job Shadow Day

Kissimmee Gateway Airport hosted Eagle Job Shadow Day on April 10th, welcoming Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University students as they observed staff in different roles performing tasks throughout the day.  

Students got to tour the air traffic control tower and get a 360° view of the airfield, and chat with our Air Traffic Controllers to understand how they interact with the pilots to depart and land safely. The students also visited Sunstate Academy of Aviation to learn about their flight training opportunities and experienced flying a full motion B-737 flight simulator at Aerostar Training Services. The remainder of the tour included a pyrotechnic demonstration for wildlife mitigation and inspecting all of the runways and taxiways to show the students what the Airport Operations Team looks for to ensure the pavement, markings, and lighting are suitable and meet the FAA’s safety standards.

Kissimmee Gateway Airport Participates at Invest: Orlando in Support of Central Florida's Growth

This month, our Director of Aviation Shaun Germolus was at the Invest: Orlando conference, where the region’s economic drivers, challenges, and business investment opportunities were front and center. The Invest: Orlando team spoke with Shaun to learn about how Kissimmee Gateway Airport is strengthening its role as a general aviation reliever to Orlando International and positioning itself to support Central Florida’s long-term mobility and economic growth. In this interview, Shaun covers operational and financial shifts and the technology behind it, the Airport Master Plan and future growth of the airport, and how the airport is adapting the passenger experience. Click below to learn more on these changes and other updates happening now!

Kissimmee Becomes Standout Alternative

for FIFA World Cup Travel

With the United States set to host the FIFA World Cup 2026 from June 11 to July 19, and Miami scheduled to stage seven matches, Kissimmee is emerging as a strategic option for travelers seeking alternatives ahead of heightened international travel. Kissimmee Gateway Airport offers seamless connectivity for fans traveling for the World Cup while avoiding high pricing and congestion expected in host cities. Kissimmee benefits from proximity to the Brightline train linking Orlando International Airport to Miami, making it convenient for visitors to travel between match venues and their base. Its central location also supports flexible itinerary planning, allowing travellers to combine multiple match destinations with leisure experiences across Florida. 

Enjoy High Quality Vehicle Rentals with Go Rentals

For thirty years, Go Rentals has provided a high-touch, quality vehicle rental service for discerning business and leisure travelers. Since its launch, Go Rentals has grown into a leading rental service company with unrivaled knowledge, experience, and passion for aviation and hospitality. Catering to the needs of guests as well as aviation, travel, and hospitality professionals, their dedicated team will go to heroic lengths to make the travel experience enjoyable, memorable, and convenient. Visit Go Rentals at Signature Aviation or Velocity at Kissimmee Gateway Airport to experience unrivaled knowledge, experience, and passion for aviation and hospitality.

Relocate Your Business to Kissimmee Gateway,

Central Florida's Airport of Choice

With more than 180 acres of land available for development, a new aerospace park and innovative incentive packages, Kissimmee Gateway Airport is Central Florida's airport of choice and the ideal location for your business. For more information, contact the City of Kissimmee Economic Development Office at (407) 518-2307.

This newsletter is a publication of Kissimmee Gateway Airport. For more information about this publication, please contact us at newsletter@flykissimmee.com or call (407) 847-4600.



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