Kurt Stanich, Airport Manager of the Waukesha County Airport, provided the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) an excellent presentation. It began with the history of aviation dating back before the Wright Brothers December 17, 1903, flight at Kitty Hawk, as well as highlighting the development of aviation through the years, including the beginning and growth of the Waukesha County Airport/Crites Field located at 2525 Aviation Drive, Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Did you know, the first flight in Wisconsin took place in Beloit on November 9th, 1909.
“Since its humble beginnings in 1935, the Waukesha County Airport/Crites Field has evolved into a state-of-the-art facility meeting the unique aviation needs of both enthusiasts and area businesses, while greatly contributing to the local economy.”...
Today the airport is a full-service airport: open 24/7 serving the needs of both corporate and recreational pilots. The airport provices flight support, aircraft management, maintenance and more.
Today Wisconsin has 97 airports, supporting 90,900 jobs equating to 3.5 billion dollars in income. At Waukesha County Airport there are 31 jets, 24 multi-engine and 178 single-engine aircraft on campus. Service provided include business transport, recreational flights, medical/medivac, maintenance, military operations, and flight training.
Over the past decade, there has become an increasing gap between the number of pilots retiring and pilots needed to meet the forecast needs of aviation. The need is for both pilots and mechanics. If interested in a career in aviation, give Kurt a call for a tour or an opportunity to talk with pilots and mechanics. Stop by to learn more or view the website for opportunities. “The entire staff is standing by to help.”
Throughout the year there are many opportunities for aviation enthusiasts to attend events like Food Truck Fridays, airplane rides, Young Eagle free flights, safety seminars, air shows, and the Airtoberfest Steins for Scouting event.
To learn more about the history, operations, and aviation opportunities, visit the www.waukeshacounty.gov/airporthome/ , call 262-521-5250, or email the staff.
Thank you, Kurt.
