In a significant step toward awarding workforce training grants, FAA is requesting comments on its plans for administrating two important workforce grant programs targeted at aviation businesses, government entities and labor organizations to advance aviation career development.

The $5 million for each of the pilot and AMT workforce programs covers grants ranging from $25,000 to $500,000. FAA has scheduled publication of applications for November. The grants also aim to increase workforce diversity. FAA’s request also describes eligible applicants, overviews the application process and provides example criterion for successful applications.

Comments are open for pilot grants through September 24 while AMT grant comments must be in September 23.

The programs were championed by, aviation airline and MRO groups to address critical shortage for pilot, engineer, unmanned systems and aviation maintenance technician training and is required by the Reauthorization Act of 2018.