Charlotte Community Foundation Boosts Aviation Education with $25,000 Donation to Charlotte Local Education Foundation's Propelling Futures Campaign

Punta Gorda, FL – March 11, 2025 – Charlotte Technical College (CTC) is making steady progress on its new Aviation Training Facility, a state-of-the-art center that will provide hands-on education for future aviation maintenance professionals. Located within the PGD Aviation Expansion Area (PGD AviEx) at Punta Gorda Airport, this facility is a key component in strengthening Charlotte County’s aviation workforce pipeline. With all necessary permits secured by the Charlotte County Airport Authority, construction is advancing efficiently. The foundation has been poured, and contractors are currently completing underground rough-in. Sitework is ongoing, and the slab for the next phase of construction is scheduled to be poured within the next week. This milestone builds upon the successful groundbreaking event in December 2024, where local leaders, educators, and industry partners gathered to celebrate the facility’s impact on workforce development. The 19,420-square-foot building will include a 10,000-square-foot hangar, modern classrooms, and advanced labs, offering students the opportunity to train with industry-standard equipment and expert instruction. “This facility represents a tremendous investment in our students and community,” said Cindy Gulsby, Director of Charlotte Technical College. “The continued progress is an exciting step toward preparing the next generation of aviation professionals right here in Charlotte County.” Construction, led by Stellar Development, Inc., remains on schedule for completion by December 2025, bringing expanded educational opportunities and high-demand aviation careers to the region. For more information about the CTC Aviation Program, visit propellingfuturesatctc.com or yourcharlotteschool.net/ctc.