DART Awarded CA Jobs First – Uplift Central Coast Catalyst Grant

DART (Drone, Automation, and Robotics Technology) in Marina, CA, has received state funding to boost the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector on the Central Coast. This funding will support DART's "Advancing Central Coast AAM Ecosystem" initiative, focusing on job training and infrastructure development for this emerging industry.

The initiative includes three key components: an Aircraft Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship (AMTA) pilot program in partnership with Joby Aviation and local colleges and schools, regional planning for vertiports (airports for electric aircraft), and the LIFT Summit, a gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, and workforce stakeholders scheduled for March 26-28, 2025, at the Monterey Conference Center. The summit will showcase aerospace innovations, training programs, and infrastructure investments.

This project aims to create a skilled aviation workforce and prepare the Central Coast for the next generation of air travel. DART's Executive Director, Josh Metz, emphasized the importance of this funding in building an inclusive and future-ready workforce. The Pajaro Valley Unified School District Superintendent, Dr. Heather Contreras, also highlighted the collaboration's benefits for students. DART's work aligns with the CA Jobs First mission to promote inclusive economic growth. For more information, visit www.mbdart.org.