The Aviation Center of Mobile is helping to pave the way to higher learning by offering free GED preparation classes running concurrently with a credit class.

“This opens the door for non high school graduates to start aviation training while completing a GED at the same time,” Matthew Hughes said.

Hughes developed the program when he was dean of Technical Education at Enterprise-Ozark Community College.

He has taken a new position as the director of Work Force Development of the Alabama Department of Post-Secondary Education.

He said students can take steps in preparing themselves for what is “really a high paying career.”

Individuals are allowed to take a class in materials and processes in the morning and an afternoon GED preparation class.

This program is being offered through Enterprise-Ozark Community College and the first class started on Jan. 8.

Students must score at the level of ninth grade or above (Level III) on the TABE test to enroll in the GED classes.

Level III must be reached before students are allowed to enroll in the AMT class.

Students may take the GED test for $50 at Bishop State Community College.

To contact the Aviation Center of Mobile located in Brookley Field, contact Marla Justice at 251-438-2816, ext. 5117.