Source: Raylene Alexander, 785-826-2940, raylene@k-state.edu
Prepared by: Abigail Crouse, 785-826-2642, acrouse@k-state.edu
Friday, Feb. 8, 2008
K-STATE AT SALINA PROFESSOR CREATES MENTORING PROGRAM FOR FEMALE STUDENTS IN AVIATION MAINTENANCE
SALINA -- A Kansas State University at Salina professor is working to help women in the aviation maintenance industry succeed.
Raylene Alexander, assistant professor of aviation, has created Jet Ahead, a mentoring program for female airframe and powerplant students around the country.
The main objective of the program is to connect students with an experienced mentor who can answer questions and help alleviate concerns, Alexander said. Jet Ahead is designed to be flexible in meeting the needs of airframe and powerplant schools and students, and is a networking tool for both.
When Alexander left the airline industry and began a career in education, she said she noticed a lack of understanding from female students on how they would fit in their chosen career.
"I designed the program to assist students in improving their networking and career development skills," she said.
Jet Ahead was in development for two years, with the pilot program beginning in January 2007. Alexander said the program already has been instrumental in keeping one student from dropping out.
Alexander is seeking women who have worked or are working in the airframe and powerplant field to volunteer as mentors for the program. More information on mentoring possibilities and Jet Ahead is available by contacting Alexander at 785-826-2940 or raylene@sal.ksu.edu.