TCC aviation takes off with nuts, bolts, training

FORT WORTH – Tarrant County College (TCC) has struck a $16 million deal with Bell Helicopter to purchase the company’s 161,200-sf military programs facility located at 2301 Horizon Dr. at Alliance Airport.

TCC intends to use the space to create an estimated $20 million learning center for aviation, aerospace and logistics training. The new facility will allow TCC to expand aircraft maintenance programs.

The 161,200-sf building sits on 15.37 acres. The building has direct access to an airport runway and includes two airplane hangars.

The facility also has 8,900 sf of industrial lab space, a commercial paint station, cafeteria, conference room and parking for about 400 cars. There are an additional 1.5 acres for future parking or building needs.

There is projected growth in the aviation and aerospace industries in upcoming years, according to Texas Workforce Commission estimates. Over the next decade, the region will need 4,280 aircraft mechanics and technicians, 2,080 pilots and flight crew, 1,230 aircraft assemblers and 790 aerospace engineers.

TCC leaders said they want the facility ready for classes by fall 2014.