Many Marines dream of furthering their education. Some even joined
specifically for military education assistance.

The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training New River partnered with
Craven Community College to assist CNATT Marines with getting college
credit that mirrors their training.

“This new program is setting Marines up for a fast track to a college
degree,” said Bob Adelsperger, CNATT field training specialist and learning
standards officer.

According to Adelsperger, this new program will allow tiltrotor airframes
mechanics to acquire a two-year Manufacturing Technology Composites
Associate’s Degree in as little as three semesters.

“The Manufacturing Technology Composites Degree is a tech-savvy program
which many employers will make use of in the future job market,” said Wendy
Walker-Fox, project coordinator for Craven Community College. “This program
will make use of state-of-the-art equipment and prepare the students for
careers in the technology manufacturing field.”

Technological benefits of the program include Apple iPads for the students
to take home for the duration of their schooling.

“Utilizing iPads and certain lecture and electronic book apps, allows
students to be flexible with their studying and provides more hands-on time
with their instructors,” said Walker-Fox.

Due to the technical nature of CNATT training, students will earn up to
three classes worth of credits through their previous work experience.

“These Marines have all the skills necessary to succeed in this program,”
said Walker-Fox. “I have faith they will be successful in it.”

“Earning a degree will help them both inside the Corps and when they get
out,” said Adelsperger. “When they get out, it will help them find new,
productive jobs in society. While they’re in, the new skills they learn
will give them additional tools to better themselves and their squadrons.”