West Kootenay residents’ eyes were drawn skyward late last month as the roar of jet engines broke the silence.
At approximately 1 p.m. on September 28, a Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornet fighter jet arrived at the West Kootenay Regional Airport in Castlegar. The jet was piloted by Selkirk College graduate, Captain Max Cameron. Cameron took the opportunity to combine his air force required flight time with a visit to the Selkirk College Aviation facility and his aviation roots.
Selkirk College president, Angus Graeme was on hand to welcome Cameron’s arrival. Graeme was one of many who climbed into the CF-18 cockpit reporting that it was “just a wee bit tight.”
Cameron and his fellow alumni spent time with local and regional media, current Selkirk students and staff and the general public, reinforcing the positive influence the program has on students, alumni, the community and industry members over the past 44 years.
“One of Selkirk College’s primary functions is to give our learners the skills and education needed to pursue varied and rewarding careers,” said Graeme. “Being here today, speaking with Max, other graduates and current students, I am again reminded of how excellent our programs are and the important and inspiring role played by colleges here and throughout BC.”
Cameron joined fellow graduates of the Selkirk College Aviation program for reunion festivities over the weekend, where program graduates from 2001 to 2003 spent time getting reacquainted and sharing industry stories with current first- and second-year aviation students.
The two-year aviation/professional pilot training program prepares students for careers as pilots in the domestic and international aviation industry. Graduates of the program enjoy successful careers with airlines, corporate flight departments, and specialty aviation operators.