From training to takeoff: Q&A with Maggie Topping on investing in the next generation of aviation talent

As Senior Vice President of Human Resources & Communications, Maggie Topping plays a vital role in advancing Textron Aviation’s mission to inspire the journey of flight by equipping the next generation of aviation team members with what they need to succeed. In this Q&A, she shares how strategic investments in workforce development, recruitment and training are building a stronger industry and a more connected community. 

Q: Why did Textron Aviation recently invest in the expansion of WSU Tech training programs and the National Center for Aviation Training?

A: Our investment in WSU Tech’s expansion of the National Center for Aviation Training is a powerful example of how we invest in the communities where our employees live and work. By supporting this initiative, we’re helping expand accessible, top-tier training to prepare students for real-world aviation careers. Wichita, Kansas isn’t just where we are headquartered — it's the Air Capital of the World — and we are on a journey to make it the Aviation Training Capital of the World. We’re proud to support efforts that strengthen our hometown as a hub for aviation excellence. It’s a win-win — our industry gains a stronger workforce and our community benefits from economic growth and opportunity. 

Q: How will this investment shape the future of aviation?

A: Aviation is evolving rapidly, and we’re committed to equipping our employees with the skills they need to lead that evolution. Investing in technical training isn’t just about filling roles — it’s about building a pipeline of highly skilled professionals who will innovate, adapt and grow with us, shaping the industry for years to come. Whether it’s through our partnerships with local institutions or our internal development programs, we’re committed to creating opportunities that empower people to grow their aviation design, manufacturing, maintenance and support careers. 

Q: What other steps are you taking to strengthen the Textron Aviation workforce?

A: Our new, world-class Career & Learning Center (CLC) is a game changer. The facility brings application, hiring, onboarding and training efforts under one roof, making it easier for prospective employees to start their careers with us. Since opening our doors to the Wichita community in August 2024, we’ve succeeded at creating environments where employees are inspired to take their careers to the next level. Dedicated recruiters provide visitors with personalized support through every step of the application process. The center also provides realistic environments for training scenarios that mimic the reality of our manufacturing operations, so our new hires are set up for success from day one. 

We’re proud to support a wide variety of workforce development initiatives, including the Heroes MAKE America Airframe & Powerplant certification training program, the FutureReady Manufacturing Center in collaboration with WSU Tech and Wichita Public Schools, apprenticeships, educator externships, university, high school and Skillbridge internships and more. Additionally, the Exploration Place Flight Adventure playscape demonstrates our commitment to keeping our workforce local by sparking interest in aviation at a young age. These investments reflect our belief that workforce development is not just a business strategy — it’s a responsibility.

Q: Can you share a moment or story that made you especially proud to be a part of the Textron Aviation team?

A: The grand opening of our Career & Learning Center immediately comes to mind. Watching our team and community leaders walk through the doors for the first time and take in the new space was incredibly fulfilling. You could feel the excitement about the long-term, positive impact this facility will have on both our business and the community. That excitement continues today as we support job seekers from across the region who use the center to discover their next career opportunity, while current employees utilize the training programs to upskill and thrive in their roles. These results continue to validate our core belief: our workforce investments aren’t just about buildings or programs — they’re about people. And when we invest in people, we invest in the future of flight.

Interested in joining the Textron Aviation team? Explore current job openings at txtav.com/careers or visit the Career & Learning Center at Suite 400, 293 S. Greenwich Rd, Wichita, Kansas 67206.